Potthål

Potthål is a pothole in road or pavement surfaces. It is a localized cavity that forms when the supporting layers beneath the surface are weakened or removed, causing the surface material to break away and create a hole. Potthål can vary in size and shape, from small depressions to larger openings that penetrate through the wearing course and sometimes into the subbase.

Causes and formation typically involve a combination of water intrusion, temperature changes, and traffic loading. Water seeping through cracks into the pavement structure can freeze and expand, causing the material to crack and loosen. Repeated freeze–thaw cycles, inadequate drainage, aging or poorly compacted base layers, and cumulative traffic vibrations all contribute to material loss. Over time, the surface collapses into the underlying void, producing a pothole that may grow with ongoing traffic and weather.

Impacts of potthål include damage to vehicles, such as tire and suspension wear, and increased risk of loss of control or accidents for drivers, especially on wet or icy surfaces. They also reduce ride quality and accelerate further deterioration of the pavement if not repaired. Effective pothole presence depends on regular inspection and timely maintenance.

Repair and prevention focus on removing loose material, cleaning the hole, and applying a patch or overlay. Common methods include cold-patch or hot-mix asphalt repairs, followed by milling and resurfacing for longer-term relief. Drainage improvements, crack sealing, proper base preparation, and timely maintenance are important to reduce the formation of new potholes.