Asphalt potholes occur when:      
• Moisture penetrates existing cracks
• Cracks multiply
• Asphalt breaks into small pieces
• Asphalt, dirt, and gravel are forced out from traveling vehicles or snow plows.

There are a few types of pot hole repair procedures that can be completed to correct pot holes:

Filling in the asphalt problem: The easiest method of repair is to simply fill in the pot hole with hot or cold mix asphalt and compact.

Procedure:
• Remove broken asphalt, dirt, and gravel from pot hole.
• Apply a tack coat inside the pothole to help bind with the new asphalt.
• Install hot or cold mix asphalt with a shovel.
• Grade and compact the asphalt with a tamper.

Saw cutting around the Pot Hole: Saw cutting around the perimeter of the problem area eliminates the pothole along with cracks surrounding it. It also provides a clean look to your repair work.

Procedure:    
• Saw cut the perimeter of the pot hole
• Remove all asphalt inside the saw cuts
• Re-grade/replace gravel underneath old asphalt
• Install hot or cold mix asphalt with a shovel
• Grade and compact the asphalt with a tamper

Saw cutting your potholes will cost more to complete, however they are a overall better repair.  They also help maintain the appearance of your pavement.