How to Fix Potholes Like a Pro Before They Spread
Potholes are more than just an eyesore — they can damage vehicles, create trip hazards, and quickly worsen if left untreated. Whether your driveway is tarmac, asphalt, or another surface, tackling potholes early is the key to preventing further damage and costly repairs. At St Neots Driveways & Patios, we help homeowners and businesses across St Neots, Cambridgeshire repair and maintain their driveways to keep them smooth, safe, and long-lasting.
Why Potholes Form
Potholes usually start as small cracks that allow water to seep beneath the surface. When temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, pushing the surface material apart. Over time, repeated traffic breaks the weakened area and forms a hole.
Common Causes of Potholes
- Weather-related freeze-thaw cycles
- Poor drainage or standing water
- Ageing surface materials
- Heavy traffic or constant vehicle pressure
Step-by-Step: How to Fix Potholes Professionally
1. Clean Out the Pothole
Remove loose debris, dirt, and broken surface material. This ensures the repair material bonds properly and creates a solid base.
2. Prepare the Edges
Square off the sides of the pothole where possible to create a clean edge. This helps the repair material stay in place and prevents further crumbling.
3. Fill and Compact
High-quality cold-lay asphalt or hot-mix tarmac is used to fill the hole. The material must be properly compacted to remove air pockets and achieve a level, durable finish.
4. Seal the Repair
Professional sealing around the edges of the patch helps prevent water ingress and ensures the repair lasts longer.
The Importance of Acting Early
Potholes never repair themselves — they only grow bigger over time. A small patch carried out quickly can save a full driveway resurfacing later. Timely repairs also:
- Prevent damage to tyres and suspension
- Reduce trip hazards and improve safety
- Stop water from penetrating deeper into the base layer
- Restore the driveway’s appearance and smoothness
Preventing Future Potholes
Homeowners in St Neots, Cambridgeshire can reduce the risk of potholes returning by:
- Keeping the driveway free of standing water
- Clearing debris and leaves regularly
- Scheduling routine driveway inspections
- Applying protective sealcoats when recommended
Conclusion
Fixing potholes promptly is the most effective way to maintain a safe, attractive driveway and avoid expensive resurfacing. By cleaning, filling, compacting, and sealing the repair properly, you can restore the surface and protect it for the long term.
St Neots Driveways & Patios proudly provides expert pothole repair services across St Neots, Cambridgeshire, helping homeowners maintain their driveways and prevent small problems from becoming major ones.
Call us on: 01480 772 092
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