Investigation of Pothole Severity and Maintenance Methods in Canada through Questionnaire Survey

Abstract

This paper investigates the severity of pothole problems, conducts a critical assessment of current maintenance practices, and identifies resources available for pothole repair based on the results from a questionnaire survey of six provincial transportation agencies in Canada. The survey outcomes indicated a greater percentage of moderate to highly severe potholes in the study area. Freeze-thaw cycles were identified as the most influential factor in pothole formation. A large portion of pothole repair operations are conducted in the summer period. The frequently used patching materials were conventional cold mix, hot-mixed asphalt, Quality Pavement Repair, and Innovative Asphalt Repair. The throw-and-go method is commonly used for pothole repair operations in all seasons. The durability of a winter-repaired patch is significantly less than that of summer. Raveling, edge disintegration, and cracking are the most concerning distresses of patch failure, which could be a result of inadequate stability, adhesion, cohesion, and stripping potential of patching materials.