This repair method uses standard hot mix asphalt to replace failed sections of pavement. Crews typically square up the damaged area, clean it, apply a tack coat, and then fill the hole with heated mix before compacting it with a roller. Because the material is identical to structural pavement, it provides a durable, long-lasting fix compared to temporary cold materials.
The inspector wants a full depth hot patch on that utility cut before we overlay the lane.
For a hot patch to last, the edges of the hole must be cut vertical and thoroughly tacked to prevent water intrusion.
Do not mix it up with
- Cold patch: Hot patch requires heated plant mix and provides a permanent fix, whereas cold patch is a temporary material used straight from a bag or bucket.
Related terms
Pothole
A bowl-shaped hole through the pavement surface where pieces of asphalt have broken out.
HMA
Hot mix asphalt: aggregate and binder mixed hot at a plant, hauled hot and compacted before it cools.
Tack coat
A thin spray of asphalt between layers that bonds the new lift to the surface underneath.
Hot box
A heated, insulated hopper on a truck or trailer that keeps mix hot all day for patching.