A driveway is one of those things most homeowners don’t think about until cracks or potholes show up. Once they do, water gets in, the surface weakens, and the problem only grows especially through winter.
The good news is that many potholes can be repaired without expensive full-resurfacing. Even better, proper materials and technique can stop the same hole from returning in a few months. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Do Potholes Form?
Driveway potholes usually come down to:
Water infiltration
Freeze–thaw cycles
Ground movement
Heavy vehicles
Poor initial installation
Once water gets beneath the surface, it expands when frozen and contracts when warm opening the gap further until the surface collapses and forms a hole.
Repair Yourself or Call Someone?
Small potholes can be handled DIY with the right materials.
Bigger, deeper damage especially if the sub-base has softened is best handled
professionally, or it’ll just come back.
A good rule:
If the hole feels spongy underneath, it needs more than just surface patching.
Cold-Lay Tarmac: A Simple Repair Option
Cold-lay tarmac is a popular way to handle quick driveway repairs without machinery. It comes bagged and ready to use just pour, level, and compact.
Basic process:
Clean out all loose debris
Fill the hole with cold-lay tarmac
Compact firmly with a tamper
Slightly overfill to allow settling
It’s straightforward and cost-effective for domestic driveways.
Why Overbanding Helps Repairs Last
Bitumen overbanding protects the joint between the old surface and the new tarmac.It blocks water, stops cracks spreading, and significantly extends the life of the repair.
For reliable cold-lay tarmac and overbanding materials, Ready Set Supplied is a helpful place to start.
How to Fix a Driveway Pothole (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 — Clear the Hole
Brush out all debris, stones, dirt, and loose tarmac.
Step 2 — Square the Sides
Cut vertical edges if possible — it gives a stronger bond.
Step 3 — Apply Cold-Lay
Slightly overfill the hole to allow for compaction.
Step 4 — Compact Firmly
Use a tamper, or roll over it with a car tyre.
Step 5 — Apply Overbanding
Seal around the joint to lock out water.
This is the biggest difference between a quick fix and a lasting fix.
Preventing Future Potholes
Seal cracks early
Maintain drainage
Sweep debris regularly
Avoid heavy loads in the same spot
Proactive maintenance is much cheaper than repeated repairs.
When It’s Time to Replace the Driveway
Sometimes, patching isn’t enough.
Consider resurfacing if:
Potholes keep reappearing
Water pools frequently
There’s widespread cracking
However, most homeowners can get years more life using patching + overbanding.
Final Thoughts
Driveway potholes are annoying, but not the end of the world.
With the right materials especially cold-lay tarmac and proper edge sealing you can repair them quickly and keep them from returning.
A well-patched repair is always cheaper than a full replacement, and with good
maintenance, you can stretch your driveway’s lifespan noticeably.
