What potential road condition can result from repeated freeze-thaw cycles?

Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can lead to increased potholes and road damage due to the way water interacts with the road surface. When temperatures drop, any moisture present on the roadway can freeze and expand. This expansion can create small cracks in the pavement. As temperatures rise and the ice melts, the water can seep into these cracks. When it freezes again, the water expands once more, further exacerbating the cracking and leading to larger potholes over time.

This cycle can continue, causing significant deterioration of the road surface if not managed effectively. The freeze-thaw process is particularly problematic in climates that experience significant temperature fluctuations, making it crucial for road maintenance crews to be aware of this potential damage and to take preventive measures where possible.