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Causes of Potholes

Potholes are created when water penetrates the top layer of asphalt through cracks in the road. After the moisture freezes and expands, sections of the pavement are forced up. The weight of vehicles going over this section of road breaks the pavement, and the asphalt is forced out. Potholes are more frequent in the spring, after the freeze/thaw action following winter.

The total number of potholes repaired could vary year-over-year dependent on winter conditions. If it is freezing all through the winter, fewer potholes are likely to form due to fewer freeze-thaw cycles. But a milder winter will have higher number of freeze-thaw cycles where temperature falls below freezing and then quickly rises above freezing resulting in more potholes in that year.

Pothole Repairs

Repairing potholes is an affordable way to maintain our roads. City crews routinely monitor road conditions and identify areas that need repairs.

To repair, crews place asphalt and rake it into the pothole. Then they tamp down the asphalt and smooth it out until the road surface is improved.

During winter months when temperatures are low and pavement is covered with snow/ice, it is extremely difficult to work with hot asphalt because it cools very quickly. Potholes are temporarily patched with cold mix asphalt to make the road safe. More permanent repairs are performed with hot asphalt when warmer conditions prevail.

Residents can report a pothole by using the online form or calling Customer Service at 519-332-0330 ext. 3131. Please note potholes are repaired based on location. Potholes on very busy streets will be repaired sooner than those on less-travelled streets. 

Sidewalk, Curb and Gutter Repairs

Please contact the Public Works Department to report or request sidewalk, curb, or gutter repairs at 519-332-0330.

Please email the Engineering Department for Curb Cuts and Parking Hoarding Permits at engineering@sarnia.ca.

Curb cut pricing: Online Services – Curb Cut.

Pothole, Sidewalk and Curb and Gutter Repair maintenance is in line with Provincial standards where applicable.