Fix Potholes Before Winter: 4 Reasons Not to Let Them Linger

Potholes are never a good idea. If you see one in your parking lot or on one of the roads under your management, filling them fast is smart. In fact, repair any small crack, alligator cracking or caustic spills pronto to prevent bigger potholes from forming! Here’s why:

1. Fixing Small Potholes is Cheaper than Fixing Big Potholes

It’s only logic, really. The bigger the pothole, the deeper the repairs will have to go, and the more surrounding pavement may have to be involved. Fix them when they’re small and it will be less hassle and expense.

NOTE: It’s important for you to recognize alligator cracking in your parking lots or roads as a precursor to potholes. When you see areas of severely cracked pavement where the pattern resembles the scales on the back of an alligator, you will see a pothole form there sooner rather than later. Take this as a sign to get your asphalt repaired quickly.

2. Get Ahead of the Freeze-Thaw Cycle

The relentless Northern Virginia freeze-thaw cycle over winter will expand and contract small holes, weakening surrounding asphalt, turning small potholes into gaping vehicle-eaters that will cost so much more to fix.

3. Snow Plows and Ice Melt

As we deal with snow and ice in the winter, those heroic snowplows and ice melt chemicals can further weaken any asphalt that isn’t smooth and whole. Snowplows can accidentally tear up big chunks off of a small pothole, making it much larger.

4. Keep Your Drivers Safe

Winter driving is already tricky enough without making it worse with potholes. Fixing potholes before winter can help you prevent liability issues, accidents, injuries and car damage.

If you notice any cracks or small potholes, contact Espina Paving at (703) 491-9100 right away. We can get it fixed so you’ll be ready for a safer winter.