Pothole Solutions: How to Keep Your Pavement Intact This Winter

Pothole repair in the winter may seem like an impossible task (think about all the snow and ice we get in Ontario during the winter!) but it is an important step in protecting your commercial property. Even with protective measures, many snow and ice removal products, types of equipment, and methods can damage your asphalt parking lot.

Potholes develop when cracks go unaddressed on your asphalt surfaces. These cracks may appear along edges, utility covers, and catch basins. Without prompt attention, cracks can quickly turn into potholes, which can be expensive to repair.  Below, we discuss some cost-effective pothole solutions to preserve your pavement in the winter.

Why Winter Is Harsh on Pavement

Asphalt is a durable mixture of aggregates, sand, gravel, crushed stone, and a petroleum-based binder. That said, it’s not indestructible. Freeze-thaw cycles, water infiltration, heavy traffic flow, and snow removal equipment and products can damage asphalt.

Water from rain and melting snow seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, leading to potholes. This can cause damage to the structure of the pavement and the supporting subbase. Often times, the compaction of the asphalt is inadequate, leading to hazardous uneven surfaces and water filtration.

When asphalt is uneven, water will begin to pool. Pooling water breaks down asphalt as it penetrates the surface and leaks into the foundation.

Additional factors like snowplow damage and heavy vehicle traffic can also weaken the components of asphalt, allowing cracks to form and transform into potholes. By applying harsh chemicals to assist with snow and ice removal, it can also damage the structure of the asphalt.

Common Pothole Problems in the Winter

Below are some of the most common types of winter pavement damage:

• Cracks turn into potholes as extreme temperatures, improper maintenance, and regular traffic flow weaken the composition of the asphalt. As cracks widen and deepen, snow, ice, and rain seep into the subbase of the asphalt.
• The edges of the asphalt can become damaged due to snow and ice, harsh de-icing products, and improper maintenance.
• Depressions on the surface of the asphalt form due to poor drainage. As melting ice and snow accumulates on the asphalt, the resulting water seeps into the crevices of the asphalt, weakening the structure and allowing potholes to form.
• Potholes can lead to vehicle damage as contact with a tire can damage the internal car system, bend tire rims, break struts and shocks, and pop a tire. Motor vehicle accidents and personal injuries can also result from potholes.

The Best Pothole Repair Methods for Winter

1. Cold Patching: Cold patch asphalt repair is a temporary solution for potholes during the cold weather. Cold mix asphalt is directly applied to the damaged portion of the asphalt, providing a quick and effective solution. They are a temporary fix to prevent accidents until permeant repairs can be done in the spring.
2. Spray Injection Patching: As a durable winter solution for pothole repairs, spray injection patching involves spraying a thick binder along the bottom and edges of the hole once it has been properly cleaned out. A layer of asphalt is inserted directly into the hole so that the aggregates don’t need to be compacted.
3. Infrared Pothole Repairs: The advanced technology of infrared rays is effective for small to medium potholes. While it requires specialized equipment for proper application, infrared pothole repairs provide lasting results. Repairing potholes with this method involves removing and replacing the asphalt.
4. Hot Mix Asphalt: Hot mix asphalt repairs are a more permanent solution. While it can be challenging to properly apply hot asphalt during extreme cold temperatures, it offers supreme durability. Patching potholes with a heated mixture is quicker and more cost-efficient than replacing and resurfacing the entire parking lot.
5. Preventive Measures: One of the best winter pothole repair method is, of course, taking proactive measures to prevent hazards from forming. Using sealcoating and crack sealing services to prevent water infiltration on a regular basis can be beneficial for property owners in the long run.

Proactive Steps to Avoid Potholes

• Routine Maintenance: Routine inspections of your asphalt is important year-round. During the wintertime, snow and ice build-up can hide hazardous conditions. Check for cracks, potholes, and other indentations that need immediate repair. Sealcoating every 2 to 3 years can further protect the pavement.
• Effective Drainage: Proper grading can ensure water drains effectively off your property. Any imperfections that can hinder water runoff should be addressed when weather permits to prevent accidents, personal injuries, and damage to the asphalt. Cleaning drains and gutters before the cold weather sets in can also provide effective drainage.
• Snow and Ice Management: A big part of winter asphalt maintenance is protecting the structure of your pavement. Eco-friendly de-icing agents and safe snow removal techniques can prevent damage to the edges and surface of your commercial parking lot, preventing the need for immediate repairs or replacement.

Benefits of Professional Pothole Repair Services

• Expertise in identifying underlying problems (e.g., base layer issues).
• Use of high-quality materials and advanced techniques.
• Saves time and money in the long run with durable repairs.
• Enhances the safety and longevity of pavement.

Protect Your Pavement This Winter with Sure-Seal Pavement!

As the area’s leading commercial paving contractor, Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. provides comprehensive year-round pavement solutions. With more than 30 years of experience, our skilled team offer professional potholes repairs, crack sealing, and snow removal services, all while protecting the integrity of your asphalt property. Contact us today to schedule a free onsite consultation for your commercial pavement needs.