How to Repair a Pothole in an Asphalt Driveway

What to do

1. Inspect the area. If the pavement is moving, badly cracked around the hole, or holding water because of a drainage problem, pause and consider professional help.
2. Read the cold-patch label and safety data before opening the package. Gather the protective equipment and tools it calls for.
3. Remove loose pavement, dirt, and debris. Some products call for defined or squared edges; follow the chosen product’s directions.
4. Place material in the layer depth specified by its manufacturer. Do not assume all products use the same lift thickness.
5. Compact each layer using the method named by the manufacturer, then finish the surface to the product’s stated profile.
6. Keep traffic off the repair for any time required by the product and check the patch after initial use.

Practical notes

Use Patcher on iPhone to measure the individual repair and calculate material before ordering.

A broom, shovel, and hand tamper are common tools, but the chosen product may require additional equipment.

Plan where excavated debris and packaging will go before work begins.

Common mistakes

• Patching over loose debris
• Skipping or rushing compaction
• Using a product outside its stated application
• Treating recurring damage as only a surface problem

Related guides

• How Much Cold Patch Do I Need?
• How to Prepare and Compact Cold Patch
• When Cold Patch Is Not the Right Repair

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