Why Potholes Are a Serious Risk for Milwaukee Commercial Pavement
Milwaukee’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles and heavy traffic make commercial pavement especially vulnerable to potholes. Left unrepaired, they can create dangerous traffic conditions, increase liability risks, and accelerate surface deterioration.
At PLM Paving, we ensure you have durable, high-performing asphalt year-round. Our expert asphalt patching services restore safety and extend the lifespan of parking lots, access roads, and industrial surfaces. Whether you’re a property manager, an HOA manager, or a municipal site manager, our team offers a cost-effective solution for pavement damage with minimal disruption.
What Causes Potholes and Asphalt Surface Failure?
Potholes form when moisture, traffic, and aging materials weaken asphalt and the base beneath it. Understanding the most common causes helps property owners address issues early with asphalt pothole repair.
- Freeze–thaw cycles: Water enters small cracks in the asphalt and freezes as temperatures drop. As it expands and contracts, the pavement weakens until it can no longer support traffic loads.
- Water infiltration: Moisture erodes the base layer that supports the asphalt surface. Addressing surface cracks early can help prevent water infiltration that leads to potholes.
- Heavy traffic and loading zones: Repeated stress from trucks, trailers, forklifts, and turning vehicles accelerates asphalt breakdown and pothole formation.
- Aging asphalt and base failure: Over time, asphalt becomes brittle due to weather exposure, oxidation, and traffic wear. When the surface or base layers fail, asphalt patching is required to restore stability
- Poor drainage: Inadequate drainage allows water to collect on or beneath the pavement, increasing deterioration and pothole risk, especially during freeze–thaw conditions
Our Asphalt Patching & Pothole Repair Process
At PLM Paving, we use a proven process and high-quality materials for patching asphalt. Our goal is to deliver reliable, long-lasting repairs that extend pavement life and improve appearance.
Here’s what to expect:
Site Evaluation and Damage Assessment
Every project begins with a detailed site evaluation. Our team assesses surface damage, base conditions, drainage issues, and traffic patterns so that the repair approach is tailored to your site’s needs.
Removal of Failed or Unstable Asphalt
We safely remove damaged or unstable asphalt to expose the affected area. This ensures a stable foundation for long-lasting repairs.
Proper Base Preparation
Once the damaged asphalt is removed, our experts inspect the base layer and repair or replace any compromised material. Proper base preparation prevents water infiltration and reduces the risk of recurring potholes.
Application of the Appropriate Asphalt Repair Solution
The best patching method is selected based on pavement condition, traffic load, and performance. In certain situations, advanced pothole repair service may be recommended depending on pavement condition and long-term performance goals.
Compaction and Surface Leveling
After the patch is applied, it is compacted and leveled to match the surrounding pavement. Proper compaction creates a smooth, safe driving surface and makes sure the repair integrates seamlessly with the existing asphalt.
Types of Asphalt Patching We Offer
The right asphalt pothole repair method depends on the severity of the damage, the base condition, and the traffic volume. As a full-service pothole repair company, we offer a variety of patching methods designed for durable, long-lasting results.
Full-Depth Asphalt Patching
Full-depth patching is used when asphalt damage extends beyond the surface layer and into the base. This method involves removing the failed asphalt and base material and rebuilding the area from the ground up. It provides a durable, long-term repair for structurally compromised pavement.
Surface Patching
Surface patching addresses shallow or early-stage pavement damage where the underlying base remains stable. This method restores surface integrity and helps prevent water infiltration that could lead to deeper structural issues.
Infrared Asphalt Repair
Infrared asphalt repair uses heat to soften existing asphalt, allowing new material to be blended seamlessly into the surrounding pavement. This process creates a thermally bonded repair with minimal joints, making it an effective option for targeted repairs and high-traffic areas.
Emergency Pothole Repair
Emergency pothole repair addresses urgent safety hazards that pose immediate risks to vehicles and pedestrians. These repairs are often needed after severe weather events or sudden pavement failures and focus on restoring safe conditions quickly.
Preventative Patching for Early-Stage Damage
Addressing minor asphalt deterioration early helps prevent potholes from forming. Preventative asphalt patching services extend pavement life and reduce costly repairs later.
Why Timely Pothole Repair Matters
Delaying pothole repairs increases safety risks and can lead to higher long-term costs for commercial and municipal properties. Timely asphalt patching services from PLM Paving help to:
- Prevent further structural damage
- Reduce trip-and-fall hazards
- Avoid vehicle damage claims
- Lower long-term repair costs
- Improve curb appeal
Additionally, asphalt patching is often followed by asphalt sealcoating to help protect the repaired surface.
Asphalt Patching for Commercial and Municipal Properties
Our asphalt patching services are designed to meet the unique needs of organizations, facility managers, and property owners across a wide range of industries. From commercial parking areas to high-traffic industrial sites, we help commercial and municipal properties enhance safety and extend pavement life. For properties with widespread surface failure or aging pavement, we may recommend our full parking lot paving services for a more effective long-term solution.
We proudly support:
- Parking Lots
- Industrial Facilities
- Warehouses and Loading Docks
- Retail Centers
- Roadways and Access Drives
Not Sure If Your Pavement Needs Patching or Something Bigger?
Asphalt damage isn’t always straightforward, and the right repair depends on site conditions, traffic, and the extent of pavement failure. At PLM Paving, we start with a professional pavement evaluation to help you get the proper repairs and prevent future failures.
We offer targeted asphalt patching to extend pavement life, restore safety, and minimize operational disruption. When patching is no longer the right option, our team will clearly explain when full asphalt paving services are the better long-term investment.
Contact PLM Paving today to schedule your evaluation and protect your paved assets.
Our Service Areas
Wisconsin’s Premier Paving & Concrete Provider
Our Office:
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Duplainville Road
Pewaukee, WI 53072
