City of Niagara Falls workers have a new and improved method of repairing pot holes in the city, using bituminous cold patch material (UPM Permanent Pavement Repair).

The city said the new material has a performance guarantee of 12 months and has proven effective, resulting in increased efficiencies.

Repair crews were able to fix more than 95 potholes on Feb. 14 alone, using 1.5 metric tonnes of the bituminous patching material on various potholes throughout the city.

This winter season has seen a range of fluctuating temperatures, creating the perfect scenario for potholes, the city said. 

“Potholes are caused by the expansion and contraction of ground water that enters the ground under the pavement. When the water freezes, it expands, leaving gaps or voids in the surface under the pavement when the ice melts, causing the pavement to weakens and cracks; causing potholes to form,” said a city release.

“Like a tray of ice you put in to the freezer, water expands once it hits 0 degrees. The same thing happens when water freezes in pavement and on roads. This expansion causes damage to our city streets, especially when trucks and cars drive over it. Using innovative materials and a newer process, we are repairing potholes faster than ever and getting ahead of road maintenance issues,” said mayor Jim Diodati.

Residents and motorists are encouraged to report potholes at niagarafalls.ca. A quick online form allows information to be provided to city staff, such as the closest street address, intersection and description of the pothole.