What is a pothole?
Potholes are very common, particularly in New England, and are virtually impossible to prevent. Although most commonly associated with cold weather, potholes can also form in warm climates. A roadway pothole is a deterioration of an asphalt surface caused by the presence of water in the underlying soil structure and the presence of traffic passing over the affected area. Introduction of water to the underlying soil structure first weakens the supporting soil. Traffic then fatigues and breaks the poorly supported asphalt surface in the affected area. Continued traffic action ejects both asphalt and the underlying soil material to create a hole in the pavement.

Show All Answers

1. What is a pothole?
2. How potholes are formed?
3. How is a pothole fixed?
4. What is “Cold Patch”?
5. Does the Town have a “Pothole Fixer”?
6. When will the potholes be fixed?
7. How do I report a pothole?