During the winter, many homeowners are concerned about ensuring that their concrete driveways and sidewalks are free of snow and ice. As a result, common tools like shovels and deicing salt are used. However, unfortunately, this can cause damage to your concrete. In this article, we address the question, what does salt do to concrete?
How Salt Erodes Your Concrete
Salt lowers the freezing point of water, effectively melting snow and ice even in subzero temperatures. However, unfortunately, this process can cause a series of chemical reactions that can significantly compromise the integrity of concrete surfaces. Though concrete seems impenetrable, its porous nature can absorb water and dissolved salts.
In fact, the salts infiltrate deeply into concrete’s pores, carrying water with them and potentially causing internal damage. The water freezes and thaws as temperatures fluctuate, expanding and contracting within the concrete. This process, known as freeze-thaw cycles, can cause micro-cracks to form and existing cracks to widen, significantly weakening the concrete structure.
Furthermore, salt can initiate a chemical reaction with the calcium hydroxide in concrete, forming calcium oxychloride. This compound expands within the concrete, exacerbating the damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles. The result? A compromised driveway is riddled with cracks and potholes, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
The Effects of Salt on Concrete
Deicing salts can accelerate the deterioration of concrete. That’s why, after a cold front, it’s important to inspect your concrete for cracks and assess any damage done.
Can Salt Damaged Concrete Be Repaired?
So, what can be done to mitigate the damage caused by deicing salts? Can your salt damaged concrete be repaired? These are some of the questions you may have about your concrete, and we are here to help you with any concerns related to salt damaged concrete.
In fact, with spring on its way in Middle Tennessee, now is the time to schedule a free consultation for your concrete. At Summit Concrete, we have been providing residential and commercial concrete solutions since 2016 for the greater Middle Tennessee area, including Brentwood, Christiana, Franklin, Hendersonville, Lebanon, Mt. Juliet, Murfreesboro, and more.
We can help you determine whether your concrete needs to be repaired or replaced. Schedule a consultation online, or give us a call at (615) 295-4547.
