Three Reasons to Repair Driveway Potholes in the Spring
It is only logical to want to mend potholes as soon as humanly possible. Potholes can precipitate accidents and damage to vehicles. In addition, shallow potholes can become more dangerous if they are not addressed promptly. But while you can complete emergency repairs at any time, permanent improvements should wait for warmer weather conditions. Our specialists on asphalt repairs in Park Falls, WI, extend these three reasons for restoring potholes in the Spring.
Winter weather damage
Winter weather produces a negative impact on asphalt driveway surfaces. Pavement tends to expand and contract during periods of thawing and freezing or substantial snowfall. Accumulation can further undermine the structure of the asphalt. Water intrusion and cracking are pervasive, and if your asphalt has acquired a pothole, there are likely other areas that are less critically degraded that you have not noticed. Waiting until Spring for pothole servicing permits you to fully evaluate the remainder of the asphalt for holes or fractures that you should address.
Cold patch asphalt is a great short-term fix for potholes because it is utilized directly from the container without the need for heating. However, it is not generally best to use as a long-term solution. It's important to remember that if you used a cold patch to get you through the winter season, Spring is a perfect time to replace it with durable hot mix asphalt designed to last.
It's also important to note that frozen ground can cause the embedded aggregates to loosen and break free. This inherent risk makes it more likely for a pothole patch not to be fitted tightly, which could permit room for water intrusion or lead to a new pothole in the very same spot.
Increased precipitation levels
Wet weather is relatively common during the Spring, but snow and heavy rain are rare. You can comfortably make asphalt improvements during a drizzle without any damaging consequences. However, substantial precipitation can cause asphalt to cool extremely quickly or lead to water build-up within the deeper layers of the new surface. Spring is the perfect time for repairs since most rains are ordinarily brief and light.
Low temperatures
Temperature is critical when it comes to laying asphalt. Hot mix asphalt is stored in a well-mixed liquid state inside of a heated truck. When the weather is hot, it will persist in its fluid form long enough to pour it out, spread it, and level it off. It will then harden gradually to form an impervious surface with a secure seal. On the other hand, asphalt starts to cool and thicken as soon as it leaves the truck during cold weather. This thickening can lead to uneven pouring or cause the asphalt to harden before spreading and leveling.