What Causes Potholes to Form?

When we see a pothole forming in our driveway or parking lot, we cringe. Not only does it look bad, but it creates a potential hazard for driving. If you have ever hit a pothole, you know the risks to your vehicle, such as throwing out your wheel alignment or flat tires. The two key components that cause potholes are water and cold weather.

What Causes Potholes to Form?

The winter weather we experience in southeastern Pennsylvania is responsible for much of the damage that happens to driveways and parking lots. It starts with water getting through cracks in the surface and settling into the substrate below. The consequences are far from desirable:

  • Just as an ice cube expands as it freezes, so too does the water sitting below the asphalt or concrete
  • This puts pressure on the pavement, forcing sections upward, causing even more cracks
  • In the warmer weather, the ice melts and evaporates, leaving a hole beneath the roadway
  • The weakened pavement collapses under the weight of the vehicles driving on it leaving a pothole

How Do I Protect My Vehicle From Potholes?

There are tricks to protecting your vehicle, such as driving over a pothole slowly with minimal braking. You can prevent the pothole from getting worse by avoiding the impulse to swerve at the last minute, causing your tires to hit from an oblique angle, breaking off more sections. The ideal solution is to stop the pothole from forming in the first place.

Detecting Potholes Early On

The first indication that your pavement is headed for trouble is the barely noticeable hairline cracks. They may seem insignificant, but to asphalt and concrete professionals, they are red flags. It is important to have your driveway inspected regularly so that preventative measures can be taken, including:

  • Sealing the surface to stop water from penetrating through to the base
  • Repairing small cracks before they get worse

Stop Potholes in Their Tracks!

At Maintain It All, we take pride in the services we offer to protect your property and give it a longer lifespan. Contact us today for a free inspection of your driveway before potholes have a chance to form.

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