Salting a Concrete Driveway

One of the best attributes of a concrete driveway is that it is fairly low-maintenance; however, there are certain instances like inclement weather that can pose a threat to the longevity of concrete. For example, harsh deicing chemicals can harm the surface of a concrete driveway. While rock salt has less damaging effects to concrete than chemical agents, it can still cause deterioration due to the thawing and refreezing of ice. Using sand for deicing treatment would be your ideal option, but if you must use rock salt, there are some preventative measures you can take to lessen the damage.

Silane or siloxane sealant
Rock salt
Shovel

Instructions

- 1
  Use concrete with at least 4,000 psi of pressure tolerance to construct your driveway, if you haven't yet laid it. Lay your concrete by the end of August; this will give the driveway a chance to settle completely, thus increasing its water resistance.
- 2
  Apply silane or siloxane sealant to the surface of the driveway to boost the concrete's ability to release moisture.
- 3
  Remove excess snow from the surface of the driveway with a shovel.
- 4
  Apply an even layer of one-half cup to 1 cup of rock salt per square foot of driveway.
- 5
  Remove slush with a shovel immediately as it forms to prevent the effects of thawing and refreezing, which can cause damage to your driveway. Pay special attention to areas of the driveway that are cracked or where vegetation has sprouted.
- 6
  Repeat the salting and snow removal process as needed.

How to Melt Snow From a Front Porch

How to Melt Ice Off the Porch Fast

Snow Removal