How Does Salt Affect Concrete
As ice freezes on the concrete, it creates a dangerous, slick surface. Driveways, sidewalks, patios, and parking lots covered with ice can cause falls, making you liable for injuries. So most people rely on deicers such as salt because it does a great job melting ice, but it also damages concrete surfaces over time.
How does salt damage concrete surfaces? Salt lowers the pH balance in the concrete. Because it is acidic, it weakens the strength of the concrete and increases the sizes of the pores. This allows water and other elements to penetrate the surface. Salt also attracts and retains water, absorbing 10% more water into the concrete. When the water freezes in the concrete, the pressure of frozen water increases. This causes pits, cracks,
How does salt damage concrete surfaces? Salt lowers the pH balance in the concrete. Because it is acidic, it weakens the strength of the concrete and increases the sizes of the pores. This allows water and other elements to penetrate the surface. Salt also attracts and retains water, absorbing 10% more water into the concrete. When the water freezes in the concrete, the pressure of frozen water increases. This causes pits, cracks,