Potholes Vs Alligator Cracking-What’s the Difference and How Do You fix It?

Sep 11

🛣️ Not All Pavement Damage Is the Same

If your asphalt looks rough, you might think a quick patch or seal coat will do the trick. But not all damage is equal — and treating it the wrong way will waste money and make things worse.

Let’s break down the difference between potholes and alligator cracking, what causes each, and how we fix them for good.

🕳️ What Is a Pothole?

Potholes are holes or voids in your asphalt that go all the way through the surface. They're caused by water infiltration and base failure — usually from cracks that weren’t sealed early on.

Feels like: A dip or chunk missing when you drive over it
Common in: High-traffic drive lanes or neglected areas
Usually 6"–36"+ wide

🐊 What Is Alligator Cracking?

Alligator cracking (also called fatigue cracking) looks like scales or shattered glass — a pattern of small, interconnected cracks.

Caused by: Weak base, poor drainage, or overloaded traffic
Found in: Stressed areas where asphalt flexes under pressure
Early stage = fixable. Late stage = it’s toast.

🛠️ How We Fix Each One

✅ Pothole Repair:

Cut & patch with hot mix asphalt
Clean out the hole
Tack coat the edges
Compact with a roller or plate
💡 Cold patch is temporary. Hot mix is permanent.

✅ Alligator Cracking Repair:

Light cracking? We apply Gator Patch to bind the surface
Severe cracking? Full-depth replacement of the area is usually needed
Either way, crack sealing beforehand is key

🧠 Straight Shot Pro Tip

If your lot has more than 30% gator cracking in an area, patching won’t cut it. You’re better off milling and paving that section — we’ll tell you straight what’s worth fixing and what’s not.

🚫 Don’t Let It Get Worse

Ignoring these issues leads to bigger bills later. And seal coating over either problem? That’s just putting a band aid on a serious wound.

✅ Let’s Put the Right Fix on It

We don’t slap Band-Aids on busted lots. We assess the damage, shoot you straight, and repair it with material that lasts. Whether it’s one pothole or a full gator-ridden drive lane, we’ve got you.

Call 615-987-2969 or visit straight-shot-pavement-solutions.com to schedule a fast, no-pressure estimate.