Why You May Not Want To Use Salt For Ice Melt On Concrete

Salt can be harmful to concrete for several reasons, particularly in cold climates where it is used for de-icing. Here are the main reasons why salt can damage concrete:

1. Freeze-Thaw Damage

  • Salt lowers the freezing point of water, causing frequent freeze-thaw cycles. Water can penetrate the porous surface of concrete, and when it freezes, it expands. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can cause the concrete to crack, spall, or crumble over time.

2. Corrosion of Reinforcement

  • In reinforced concrete, salts, especially those containing chlorides, can penetrate the concrete and corrode the steel reinforcement inside. Corrosion causes the steel to expand, which creates pressure and leads to cracking and spalling.

3. Surface Degradation

  • Salt can chemically react with some components of the concrete, particularly in low-quality or poorly cured concrete, leading to surface scaling and degradation.

4. Moisture Retention

  • Salt can attract and retain moisture, keeping the concrete wet for longer periods. Prolonged moisture exposure can exacerbate other forms of damage, such as freeze-thaw cycles and chemical reactions.

5. Efflorescence

  • Salts can migrate to the surface of the concrete, leaving behind white, powdery deposits known as efflorescence. While this is primarily a cosmetic issue, it can indicate that salts and moisture are moving through the concrete.

Substitute For Salt

Using calcium-based ice melt products instead of traditional salt (sodium chloride) has several advantages, depending on the situation and desired outcomes. Here’s why calcium-based products, such as calcium chloride, may be preferred:

1. Effectiveness at Lower Temperatures

  • Calcium chloride works at much lower temperatures (down to about -25°F or -32°C) compared to rock salt, which is effective only down to about 15°F (-9°C). This makes calcium chloride a better choice in extremely cold climates.

2. Faster Action

  • Calcium chloride absorbs moisture from the air, which helps it dissolve quickly and generate heat as it works. This exothermic reaction speeds up the melting process compared to salt, which relies on moisture already present on the surface.

3. Reduced Environmental Impact

  • While no deicer is completely environmentally friendly, calcium chloride is often considered less harmful to plants and soil in moderate amounts compared to sodium chloride, which can cause significant soil salinity issues.

4. Less Corrosive

  • Calcium chloride is less corrosive to concrete and metals than salt. While it still can cause some damage over time, it is generally less aggressive, making it a better choice for preserving infrastructure.

5. Lower Application Rate

  • Because of its effectiveness, you need less calcium chloride to achieve the same ice-melting results, reducing the overall amount of chemicals introduced into the environment.

6. Reduced Residue

  • Calcium chloride leaves less residue than salt, meaning cleaner surfaces and fewer tracking issues indoors.

7. Safer for Pets and Humans

  • Some calcium-based products are specifically formulated to be safer for pets’ paws and skin. Salt, on the other hand, can cause irritation or burns.

8. Longevity

  • Calcium chloride continues to work longer than rock salt after application, making it a more efficient choice for long-lasting ice control.

When AI was asked if calcium is safer for concrete then salt. This was its answer. 

Yes, calcium chloride (often referred to simply as “calcium”) is generally considered safer for concrete than salt (sodium chloride), as it is less corrosive and causes less damage to concrete surfaces, especially when exposed to repeated freeze-thaw cycles; making it a preferred choice for deicing concrete walkways and driveways.

Salt Damaged Concrete

Free Estimates On Masonry Maintenance & Exterior Cleaning

If you would like a free estimate on pre winter concrete cleaning, and concrete sealing to help protect your concrete. Then please feel free to contact Travis Kings Pressure Washing at 724-859-9649. Or fill out the form below.

Things You Can Do To Help Protect Your Masonry From Deicer

Protecting masonry from deicer damage is essential to prolong its lifespan and maintain its appearance. Deicers, while helpful for melting ice, can cause spalling, cracking, and other damage to masonry. Here are steps you can take to protect your masonry:

1. Seal the Masonry

  • Use a Water-Repellent Sealer: Apply a high-quality, breathable masonry sealer to create a barrier against moisture. This prevents water from soaking into the masonry, which can freeze and expand when temperatures drop.
  • Reapply Regularly: Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for reapplication frequency (usually every 3-5 years).

2. Use the Right Deicer

  • Avoid Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride): It can be particularly harsh on masonry and cause rapid deterioration.
  • Choose Masonry-Safe Deicers: Use calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) or potassium chloride, which are less harmful to masonry.
  • Minimize Deicer Use: Use only as much as needed to break the ice for easier removal.

3. Remove Snow and Ice Promptly

  • Shovel Regularly: Clear snow before it has a chance to compact and turn to ice, reducing the need for deicer.
  • Use a Plastic Shovel: Avoid metal shovels that can chip or scratch the masonry.

4. Avoid Cycles of Freezing and Thawing

  • Manage Drainage: Ensure proper drainage to prevent water from pooling near masonry.
  • Protect Edges: Install mats or gravel to reduce ice formation at the edges of walkways and driveways.

5. Inspect and Repair Regularly

  • Fill Cracks: Repair small cracks and chips promptly to prevent them from worsening.
  • Monitor for Deterioration: Look for signs of spalling or scaling and address them quickly.

6. Consider Alternatives

  • Use Sand or Grit: These provide traction without causing chemical damage.
  • Heated Driveways or Walkways: While more expensive, these eliminate the need for deicers entirely.

7. Educate Users

  • If multiple people maintain the area, ensure they are informed about which deicers are safe for masonry and the importance of protecting it.

By combining these methods, you can significantly reduce the potential for deicer-related damage to your masonry and extend its durability.