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PotholeBlog

What Really Causes Potholes And How to Prevent Them

Every winter, we cringe and brace ourselves for the worst when we see a pothole in our path. For property managers and facility owners, the impact is even greater—posing both safety risks and costly repairs. According to AAA, pothole damage cost U.S. drivers $26.5 billion in 2021, with repairs averaging $600 per hit. In 2022, 44 million drivers reported pothole-related damage—proof that prevention is far cheaper than repair.

These pavement failures aren’t random either—they’re the result of predictable science. Understanding the cause is the first step toward effective pothole prevention.

Table of Contents

by | Dec 15, 2025 | Asphalt

An image of Byrne & Jones Ohio crew finishing up a pothole repair in a parking lot

The Science Behind Potholes

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Potholes are more susceptible to forming when the weather starts to cool down during the winter and spring time. These issues are the product of water freezing and expanding. When water finds its way beneath the surface, it can expand and contract, affecting the strength of the pavement. When water expands, it can crack the pavement. As the pavement contracts, or the ice melts, gaps are left in the surface. This process can happen over and over, weakening the pavement each time while also creating a larger issue.
A graphic showing the effects of the freeze-thaw cycle on asphalt pavement surfaces

Traffic Stress

With drivers on the road, these spots can weaken even more from the weight when driven over time after time. This constant stress transforms minor cracks into larger damages, eventually creating cavities beneath the surface. Once the support layer fails, chunks of asphalt break free, forming potholes.

Snowplows & Deicers

Winter maintenance tools can unintentionally damage pavement. Plow blades scrape across the surface, removing protective layers and exposing vulnerable cracks. Meanwhile, deicing chemicals penetrate the asphalt and can degrade its binding properties, making it more susceptible to water infiltration. Combined, these factors speed up deterioration during harsh winter conditions.

Thermal Contraction

Extreme cold causes asphalt to contract and become brittle, reducing its flexibility. This rigidity makes the pavement more prone to cracking under stress from traffic or snow removal equipment. Thermal contraction sets the stage for freeze–thaw damage and pothole formation.

Factors You Can Control To Prevent Potholes

Drainage

Standing water accelerates pavement failure by seeping into cracks and weakening the base layer. Proper drainage systems and grading for your parking lot or roadway helps prevent water accumulation that leads to potholes.

Existing Cracks

Unsealed cracks act as gateways for moisture, which freezes and expands during winter. Regular crack sealing is one of the most cost‑effective ways to stop potholes before they start—especially when performed by a qualified asphalt paving contractor.

Deicing Practices

Excessive use of salt and chemicals can break down asphalt binders and increase water penetration. Balanced application and alternative treatments reduce long-term damage.

Base/Subgrade Issues

A poorly compacted or saturated base layer undermines pavement strength, making it prone to collapse under traffic. Ensuring proper compaction and soil stability during construction is critical for durability.

How Can I Reduce the Number of Potholes in My Parking Lot?

Crack Sealing (Before Winter)

Applying hot-pour rubberized sealant before the first hard freeze prevents water from infiltrating cracks and starting the freeze–thaw cycle. This simple step is one of the most cost-effective ways to extend pavement life.

Sealcoating (Before Winter)

A fresh sealcoat creates a protective barrier against moisture, chemicals, and UV rays, reducing surface wear and slowing deterioration. It also improves appearance and adds an extra layer of defense before harsh weather hits.

Drainage Tune-Up (Before Winter)

A fresh sealcoat creates a protective barrier against moisture, chemicals, and UV rays, reducing surface wear and slowing deterioration. It also improves appearance and adds an extra layer of defense before harsh weather hits.

Snow Ice Management (During Winter)

A fresh sealcoat creates a protective barrier against moisture, chemicals, and UV rays, reducing surface wear and slowing deterioration. It also improves appearance and adds an extra layer of defense before harsh weather hits.

Snow Ice Management (During Winter)

Avoid aggressive plow blades that scrape and gouge the pavement, especially in areas already compromised. Using proper plow techniques and equipment helps minimize surface damage during snow removal.

Cold Patch Repairs (During Winter)

Temporary cold patch asphalt fills potholes quickly to maintain safety and prevent further damage until permanent repairs can be scheduled in warmer months. While cold patch asphalt is a useful short-term solution, it’s important to follow up with permanent repairs for lasting results.

Permanent Repairs (Spring & Summer)

Once temperatures rise, schedule long-term fixes like mill-and-overlay or full-depth reclamation to restore structural integrity. These methods address underlying issues rather than just surface damage.

Before and after images of a parking lot repaired by Byrne & Jones

Seal and Stripe (Spring & Summer)

After repairs, sealing the surface locks out moisture and protects against future cracking, while fresh striping improves safety and curb appeal. Engaging a commercial paving contractor ensures specifications meet ADA and local code requirements while optimizing life‑cycle cost.

How We Repair Potholes The Right Way

Pothole Repair Graphic by Byrne & Jones
We remove debris and moisture, measure the damage, apply high-quality asphalt, compact for strength, and seal to prevent water infiltration.
We also provide free site evaluations to assess overall pavement condition. Instead of quick fixes, we offer solutions for everything from small potholes to large failures, giving property managers clear options for long-term durability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pothole Repair

How do I spot early signs of pothole formation?
Look for small cracks, surface depressions, or areas where water pools after rain or snowmelt. Addressing these early with crack sealing or patching can prevent larger, costlier potholes.
When should I call a professional for asphalt repair?
If you notice multiple cracks, uneven surfaces, or recurring potholes, it’s time to consult a paving expert for professional asphalt repair. Professional evaluation ensures you get the right solution—whether it’s crack sealing, sealcoating, or full-depth repair.
Do salt and deicers create potholes?
They accelerate deterioration by enabling more freeze–thaw cycles and chemical wear.
Is a cold patch for asphalt good enough?
A cold patch is a temporary fix and proper, more permanent repairs should be planned in warmer months.
How often should we crack-seal?
Crack sealing should be inspected at least once a year, ideally before winter when freeze–thaw cycles begin. If cracks are present, resealing immediately prevents water infiltration and stops small defects from turning into potholes. High-traffic areas or regions with severe weather may require more frequent checks—sometimes twice a year—to maintain pavement integrity and extend its lifespan.

Get a Winter Pavement Checkup

Don’t wait for potholes to appear—address issues before they become costly. Schedule a free site evaluation with one of our paving teams across the Midwest, and we’ll assess your pavement’s condition and identify areas at risk. From there, we can create a custom pavement preservation plan designed to extend the life of your surface and reduce long-term repair costs. Whether you’re managing a small parking lot or a large commercial property, we provide solutions tailored to your needs and budget.

Tired of your potholes? We are here to help. At Byrne & Jones Construction, we have the horsepower and expertise to mend your pavement problems. Call the surfacing experts today at (314) 254-9766.