Did you know that there are many methods that can be used to repair the potholes in your asphalt driveway? Read the following overview of four different methods that are commonly available for pothole repair. Use this information to make an informed decision about the most appropriate repair method for your driveway.

Throw-and-Go

This is the most basic way to repair a pothole. Cold-mix asphalt is prepared and poured into the pothole. Cold-mix asphalt refers to emulsified asphalt that has been mixed in aggregate and soap. The cold-mix asphalt is left so that passing vehicles compact it as they move over it. This method is not very effective because the asphalt does not bond properly with the surfaces where it has been poured. This is because of the limited surface preparation done. However, it is a good way to fix potholes temporarily (such as when you are going to host a party in your home).

Throw-and-Roll

This method is an improved version of the throw-and-go method. Here, cold-mix asphalt is poured into the holes. The contractor then uses compaction equipment to press the asphalt into the potholes. This method delivers better results because the compacted asphalt will last much longer than the one that was poured and left.

Infrared Patching

Infrared machines are used to heat the area around the pothole. This makes the surrounding asphalt melt. New asphalt is poured into the pothole after the hole has been cleaned. The new hot-mix asphalt blends with the existing asphalt so that the resultant surface is uniform. Hot-mix asphalt is made by heating an asphalt binder (such as bitumen) so that it reduces its viscosity. The aggregate is then added to the hot binder and mixed thoroughly before application. This method produces lasting results. It is also environmentally friendly because it limits waste at the worksite.

Remove-and-Replace

This method produces the most durable results. Here, a cut is made into the surrounding driveway or pavement in order to leave a repair area with a definite shape. Next, the damaged asphalt is removed before a hole is dug into the sub-grade below. The stable sub-grade is then compacted before hot-mix asphalt is poured and compacted. This method is very expensive because it is labour-intensive and requires several pieces of equipment (such as a compactor and a concrete cutter).

Repair methods can be divided into two broad categories (cold-mix and hot-mix asphalt). Each has its strengths and drawbacks. For instance, cold-mix approaches can be used in the presence of moisture (such as in winter) while hot-mix approaches provide durable results. Discuss your needs with a driveway contractor so that the best method is used to patch the potholes in your driveway.