Potholes develop over time as the foundation upon which paved surfaces lay becomes weakened.  This weakening of the foundation is often the direct result of water infiltration below the paved surface, which causes erosion, and further weakening with the expansion and contraction that occurs below the surface during freeze/thaw cycles.   We can prevent some of this infiltration from happening through the crack sealing program.

Hot patch is typically used to repair potholes during the spring, summer and fall months when temperatures are routinely above 32 degrees.  Hot patching lasts longer because we can get better compaction and a better bond with the paved surface being repaired. 

Cold patching potholes is only performed during the winter when temperatures are routinely below 32 degrees, Thanksgiving to mid-to-late March. The reason for this is because we are unable to produce asphalt when temperatures are below freezing.  Cold patching is not the best application for potholes because it is not durable, but the only choice when proper repair can’t be performed.

Did you know, on average, the city fills 60,00 to 70,000 potholes each year to help smooth paved surfaces for the benefit of the traveling public and their vehicles? These repairs are prioritized based on severity, street classification and requests for service.

With over 1,300 lane miles of streets in the city, citizens can help us improve our paved surfaces by turning potholes in for repair.  To turn a pothole in all you need to do is place a request for service online at this link, or call us at 563.326.7923.