Posted on 2/28/2025
If you've ever noticed that roads seem rougher once winter ends, you’re not imagining things. Potholes become more common and severe after cold weather, making spring a frustrating time for drivers. These road hazards can cause significant damage to your tires, suspension, and alignment, leading to costly repairs. But why do potholes get worse after winter? The answer lies in how temperature fluctuations, moisture, and traffic all interact with the road surface. How Potholes Form Potholes don’t appear overnight. They start as small cracks in the pavement caused by natural wear and tear, heavy traffic, and weather exposure. Once cracks form, water seeps into them, settling beneath the surface of the road. During winter, temperatures often fluctuate between freezing and thawing. When water freezes, it expands, pushing the pavement upward and creating gaps underneath. As temperatures rise, the ice melts, leaving behind empty spaces where the pavement is ... read more