I have a private cement road in New England that suffers a lot from snow, salt, and ice. It's crucial for me to find a repair method that lasts at least three years, or ideally be permanent. I've been considering using a fast-setting concrete mix that I can prepare in a bucket. My plan is to cover the filled pothole with a wood plank for a few days. The road sees traffic about every 20 minutes, but I can block it off for around an hour to do the work. Any recommendations or tips would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for any input!
2 Answers
If you’re looking for a DIY approach, consider using a cement saw to cut around the damaged areas, breaking up the bad patches, and then repouring fresh concrete. This method usually gives a better finish and lasts longer than just trying to fill in with a mix without prepping the old surface properly. Make sure to use a concrete mix that’s suitable for the weather in your area.
For a private road with about 30 cars a day, it might be best to go with a professional repair. They'll know how to handle high-traffic areas better with durable materials. If you're on a budget, you could initially fill the potholes with course gravel until it’s slightly raised above the level—this is quick and reduces mess. But if you want a more permanent solution, professionals usually cut around the damaged area, remove it, and pour new concrete. Using your own cement mix could work if done carefully, but it’s tricky. Just make sure to prep the area well!
Thanks, that makes sense. I guess I’m just worried about the mess and how long it’ll last. With gravel, will it stay in place or get washed away?
That sounds like a solid plan! I’ll look into getting a cement saw for the job. How long do you think the new concrete will take to cure in winter conditions?