Feb 7, 2024 By Karen Mansfield 2 min read

Potholes are popping up across the region

A PennDOT worker makes repairs to a pothole.

If you’ve driven anywhere in Southwestern Pennsylvania in the past few weeks, you’ve likely had to dodge a pothole or two – or 10.

The winter’s frequent temperature swings and bitter cold snaps are to blame for potholes taking a toll on roads.

They’re inevitable, said Melissa Maczko, community relations coordinator for the state Department of Transportation Engineering District 12 .

Potholes form when water from rain or melting snow gets under cracks in the road surface. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water freezes and expands. Then, when temperatures rise, the water melts, leaving behind a cavity under the road.

As vehicles drive over the weakened roadway, the surface of the road caves in, creating a pothole.

PennDOT crews are out daily making repairs.

During the winter, repair crews use cold patch – asphalt mixed with soap, water, and fine stones that allow the material to remain flexible and easier for crews to work with.

“Unfortunately, these repairs are only a temporary fix until the state’s asphalt plants open in the spring,” said Maczko, adding that warm mix – a combination of pure asphalt and fine stone heated to 250-265 degrees Fahrenheit – becomes available then to allow for more permanent repairs.

Those craters in the road can be costly.

PennDOT estimates the state spends about $30 million a year to fix potholes.

And, according to AAA, potholes cost vehicle owners nearly $60 billion in car repair costs each year, with an average repair cost of $600.

“It can cost anywhere from $250 to as much as $1,000 to fix problems like tire punctures and bent wheels, along with more expensive issues like suspension damage,” said Mike Hoshaw, vice president of automotive services, AAA East Central.

A recent survey from AAA found that 1 out of every 10 drivers sustained vehicle damage significant enough to require repairs.

North Strabane Township manager Andrew Walz said the road department has been filling potholes as they pop up.

“It’s one of those rites of spring,” Walz said. “We haven’t had a ton of calls or complaints so far.”

PennDOT asks drivers to notify the department when they see potholes by calling 1-800-FIX ROAD, or visit PennDOT’s online Customer Care Center at www.penndot.gov.