Kansas winters often include freezing temperatures, ice, and snow, leaving many property owners using salt to melt ice and prevent outdoor surfaces from becoming too slick. Although deicing salts are effective in melting ice and snow, the residue they materials leave behind can cause an unsightly mess. But does salt damage concrete?
At Arise Concrete Leveling, we offer comprehensive concrete leveling in Wichita, which is sometimes necessary to resolve long-term deicing salt exposure. Here, we explain what salt does to concrete and how you can keep your surfaces safe.
Why Salt Exposure Is a Problem for Concrete Surfaces
Why does salt damage concrete? To understand the answer, it helps to first learn about the nature of concrete.
Although sturdy and durable, concrete is porous. Because it’s absorbent, rock salt can penetrate concrete once it dissolves in water, creating a brine. When this happens, the salt drops the freezing point of the water that also enters the concrete, which can cause repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
These freeze-thaw cycles can lead to concrete degradation, including surface scaling and wide cracks. Salt can also react chemically with the calcium hydroxide in the concrete, causing tiny cracks. Such damage makes it easier for water and salt to penetrate concrete surfaces, which further compromises the material’s durability, strength, and visual appeal.
Warning Signs of Salt Damage on Concrete
So, how can you tell if your concrete has salt damage? Look for these warning signs:
- Noticeable scaling
- Chips or cracks
- Discoloration
- Surface erosion
The longer the deicing salt remains on the concrete, the worse the damage will be.
Tips for Protecting Your Concrete Surfaces From Salt Damage
Does salt damage concrete? It can, but you can take the following steps to minimize the effects of the deicing treatment and preserve your concrete patio, driveway, or pathways.
Clean Concrete Regularly
Cleaning concrete regularly is essential maintenance. To clean surfaces after applying salt, follow these steps:
- Clear snow and ice, if necessary.
- Remove all debris and loose salt to expose the concrete and assess the extent of the residue.
- Apply a gentle cleaning solution to the affected areas, then scrub them.
- Rinse the area to remove the residue.
Apply Protective Sealants or Coatings
Applying a water-resistant sealant creates a protective barrier, reducing the risk of salty water penetrating the concrete. Adding a protective coating can offer an extra layer of protection against salt damage.
Use Alternative Ice Melts
Some deicing salts are concrete friendly. Choose those with magnesium chloride or calcium chloride to reduce ice buildup while protecting your concrete.
Protect Your Concrete Surfaces With Our Expertise
Does salt damage concrete? It can degrade the material, especially if you’re behind on concrete maintenance. Thankfully, if you’re noticing the signs of damaged concrete, our professionals can help.
Our Arise Concrete Leveling team specializes in concrete leveling and repair for residential and commercial customers throughout Wichita, Kansas. We use the latest technology, such as polyfoam injections, to lift sunken concrete and restore concrete patios, entrance steps, sidewalks, and more. To request services from our experts, call (316) 867-6565.
