Cardiff Council is using a specialist thermal road repair machine to help repair potholes and damaged road surfaces across the city, following the unprecedented number of highway defects caused by last winter's prolonged wet weather and cold snaps.
The machine uses a heat-based process to repair potholes, while reducing carbon emissions by up to 85% compared with a conventional dig-and-fill repair technique. It works by heating the existing road surface before new material is applied, allowing much of the existing material to be reused and creating a stronger bond between the old and new surface.
Where the machine can be used, the process removes the need for traditional cuts around the repair area and eliminates joints that can allow water to penetrate the road surface and weaken repairs over time.
Cllr Ed Stubbs, Cardiff Council's Cabinet Member for Frontline Services, said:
“Keeping Cardiff's roads safe and in good condition is a priority for us, and we're constantly looking at ways to improve how we maintain our highway network, with the budget available.
“Last winter, Cardiff, like many other areas across the UK, experienced an unprecedented number of highway defects due to exceptionally wet weather and periods of freezing temperatures.
“This technology allows us to carry out high-quality repairs that create a stronger bond with the existing road surface, helping to extend the life of repairs and reduce disruption for road users.
“While thermal repair technology is not entirely new, the equipment we are now using represents a significant advancement in how these repairs are delivered. It is quicker, quieter and provides another valuable tool for our staff.
“It's important to stress that there is no single solution for every pothole. Residents will continue to see a range of repair methods being used across the city, including permanent cut-and-seal repairs and temporary repairs where immediate action is needed to keep roads safe. Our teams will always use the most appropriate repair method for the location and type of defect on the highway network.”
Thanks to a combination of drier weather, the introduction of this technology and the use of multiple repair methods, the Council has successfully repaired the potholes reported during the winter period. Reports identified through inspections and by members of the public have now fallen considerably.
The thermal repair machine cannot be used in every location, but where conditions are suitable it provides an efficient and durable repair. In areas where the machine is not appropriate, the Council continues to carry out permanent cut-and-seal repairs to ensure defects are repaired to the required standard.
Cardiff Council will continue to monitor road conditions across the city, in line with all legislation and guidance, and invest in the most effective techniques available to keep roads safe for everyone.
