A pothole can be a localized surface problem or a sign of trouble below the asphalt. Before choosing a repair, look at the surrounding cracks, settlement and water movement. This guide explains what to record and how to prepare for an assessment.
To arrange work on a driveway or parking lot, visit our pothole and asphalt patch repair service.
Why Potholes Form
Water can enter cracks and weaken the pavement or supporting material. Freezing and thawing, repeated vehicle loads and aging asphalt can then contribute to the surface breaking apart. Recurring damage in the same place calls for a review of drainage and base conditions rather than simply covering the hole again.
When a Patch May Be Suitable
A patch may suit damage confined to an area where the surrounding pavement remains serviceable. A cut-and-fill repair can involve removing damaged material, preparing the base, placing asphalt and compacting the repair. The extent and depth should follow the condition found at the site.
Widespread cracking, settlement or repeated standing water may require a wider repair, an asphalt overlay or replacement. An overlay needs a suitable supporting surface; fresh asphalt alone does not correct every underlying problem. Read our overlay versus replacement guide for the questions to discuss.
Temporary Fill and Planned Repairs
A temporary fill and a repair that includes removal and base preparation have different scopes. Ask what material and preparation are proposed and whether the work addresses the cause of the damage. Neither appearance nor a quoted lifespan alone tells you whether a repair fits the site. Confirm reopening instructions for the actual materials and conditions.
What to Photograph Before an Assessment
- A wider view showing the pothole and surrounding pavement.
- Close views of broken edges, cracks and any settled areas.
- Approximate affected length and width, without entering an unsafe area to measure.
- Standing water and where runoff collects.
- Entrances, delivery paths and parking near the damage.
Include the property location, whether the damage has returned after earlier repairs and the type of traffic using the area. For Dover properties or another Delaware location, these details help the team review the requested job.
What Determines Pothole Repair Cost?
The number of damaged areas, repair depth, base condition, removal, material and access all affect the scope. A small visible hole can have damage extending beyond its edge. Ask for a written estimate identifying preparation and repair work; a universal per-pothole price is not a reliable quote for an unseen property.
Our Delaware paving cost guide explains how to compare repair, resurfacing and replacement scope.
Planning Access and Maintenance
Tell the contractor if damage affects an entrance, delivery lane or accessible route so access arrangements can be discussed. Confirm availability and the proposed work schedule directly for the property.
Keep a record of cracks, drainage problems and earlier repairs. Sealcoating can be part of maintenance for suitable pavement, but it does not rebuild a failed base or fill a pothole. For a business lot, use our parking lot maintenance guide to plan the questions for an assessment.
Ready to discuss the repair? Review our pothole and asphalt patch repair service, request a free estimate or call 302-883-9000 with the property details.
Written by Campos Mora Construction
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