Truth About Concrete Damage from Ice Melt on Driveways!
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What is Concrete Damage from Ice Melt on Driveways?
Concrete damage from ice melt on driveways is the deterioration of the concrete surface caused specifically by the use of ice melt products during winter. The damage, typically, manifests as cracks and spalling.
Concrete damage from ice melt products is primarily a result of chemical reactions. Most ice melt products contain a chloride such as sodium chloride (rock salt), calcium chloride or magnesium chloride.
These chlorides, in the presence of water can form hydrochloric acid which is corrosive.
Unless properly sealed, water penetration in concrete happens because concrete has pores and hairline cracks. Water, that is laced with ice melt ingredients, will corrode the concrete and even the steel rebars that give the tensile strength to your concrete driveway.
In addition to the chemical effects, many ice melt products are abrasive products, so that they can provide traction for vehicular and foot traffic. While this makes the concrete driveway much safer, it can wear down the concrete surface when vehicles ply on the driveway.
As mentioned, ice melt products result in the formation of a weak hydrochloric acid which is corrosive. This is harmful to human and animal skin. Walking on a concrete driveway, on which a chloride-based ice melt has been used, can be a health risk for your pets.
As a side note, the chloride salts dissolved in the water runoff are also damaging to plants and grass, that line the driveway. Essentially, chloride-based ice melt products are not eco-friendly!
How Do Chloride-based Ice Melt Products Melt Ice?
Chloride-based ice melt products work by lowering the freezing point of water through a process called freezing point depression.
When chloride compounds like sodium chloride or calcium chloride, come into contact with ice or snow, they dissolve and form a solution. This solution then penetrates the ice, disrupting its crystalline structure and causes it to melt.
The chloride ions in the solution interfere with the hydrogen bonding between water molecules, preventing them from forming solid ice at typical freezing temperatures.
The process is exothermic, meaning it releases heat, further aiding in the melting process and preventing refreezing in cold conditions.
Is There a Safer Alternative?
Turns out there is!
Chloride salts are not the only way to melt ice fast. In combating ice buildup on driveways, opting for non-chloride-based ice melt products like Safe Paw is advisable.
These products are environmentally safe, posing no harm to waterways or sensitive wetlands. Safe Paw’s patented dual-effect compound works efficiently, with its liquid component melting ice instantly while breaking its surface tension.
This allows the crystal core to penetrate and destabilize the ice, expediting the melting process. Moreover, Safe Paw’s traction agent provides slip protection, ensuring safety for both humans and cars.
The unique formula of Safe Paw is non-corrosive and non-conductive, making it safe for use on cured concrete driveways.
Safe Paw’s green technology not only protects the environment but also ensures the longevity of driveways and walkways. Its effectiveness in melting ice without leaving harmful residues makes it a reliable choice for winter maintenance.
Safe Paw, Salt and Chloride Free Ice Melt
- 100% salt & chloride free.
- Guaranteed to melt at low temperatures (-2°F), it’s non-toxic and biodegradable
- It’s non corrosive and non-conductive.
- Will not damage concrete surfaces such as driveways, patios, walkways, etc.
Preventing Concrete Damage from Ice Melt
The best way to prevent concrete damage from ice melt is to protect the driveway from water penetration. Water penetration into concrete is the main cause for crack propagation, freeze-thaw cycles, structural disintegration and concrete defects such as spalling.
I suggest that in late fall or early winter, you do a thorough clean up of your driveway. Repair and fill any cracks in the concrete and follow it up with a pressure wash.
Now apply a high quality topical sealer on the driveway. Go for Foundation Armor AR350 Solvent Based Acrylic Wet Look Concrete Sealer, as it is the best concrete driveway sealer for you!
I like it because it:
- Results in a durable, non-yellowing finish with a low gloss wet look
- Reduces damage from abrasion, road salts, water absorption, and UV exposure.
- Lasts 1-3 years before recoating and is made with high-quality US-manufactured resins.
- Easy to apply with a roller or sprayer, suitable for unsealed or previously sealed surfaces.
Foundation Armor AR350 Solvent Based Acrylic Wet Look Concrete Sealer
- Enhances dull and faded concrete driveway with a low gloss wet look.
- Reduces damage caused by surface abrasion, road salts, water absorption, and exposure to the elements.
- UV resistant, non-yellowing, breathable.
- Can last for up to 1-3 years before the need to recoat.
Thank you very much for reading this post. I do hope you found it informative and helpful.
