What Ice Melt You Can Use On A Newly Laid Concrete Driveway
Concrete is one of the most durable materials. It’s used in everything from sidewalks to driveways and is a popular choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance flooring option that will last for years or even decades. This article will give you all the information you need about using deicer products on freshly poured cement surfaces. We will also discuss the best way to melt ice on concrete driveway.
Ice Melt Damage Concrete
Ice melt, when used incorrectly or in excess, can potentially damage concrete. The primary concern is that many traditional ice melt products contain sodium chloride (rock salt) or calcium chloride, which can be corrosive to concrete surfaces. These chemicals may cause scaling, pitting, or other forms of deterioration over time, especially on newly poured concrete.
To Avoid Use of Sodium Chloride or Calcium Chloride
Carefully read the labels of any ice melters you are considering purchasing. Avoid the use of sodium chloride or calcium chloride on your new concrete driveway, as these chemicals can put you at risk for surface spalling and other aesthetic issues. Sodium chloride is typically used in deicing products because it’s cheap and effective, but it can cause corrosion to metal surfaces, like siding or gutters. It’s also known to cause pitting and efflorescence (a white powdery coating that looks like salt on top of your concrete).
Calcium chloride is another common chemical in rock salt brands that can cause concrete damage. If its crystals get inside cracks in the pavement before they harden or become sealed with overlays, they may later expand when exposed to moisture.
To Avoid Applying Ice Melt To Any Concrete Until it’s Cured
Concrete takes 28 days to cure but can take longer in colder regions or during winter months.
This is because the concrete undergoes a chemical process known as hydration. When you mix up your concrete with water and put it down on the driveway, some of these chemicals evaporate from the surface. This means that curing will take longer if there’s not enough moisture.
Even though we should avoid using any chemical or industrial ice melt on new concrete, once it has crossed its one-year milestone, we should choose the ice melt wisely.
Safe Thaw
Safe Thaw was created as the ice management solution for tough winter environments. Ideal in commercial and industrial properties, shops, government agencies, bridges, and construction.
Best Way to Melt Ice On Concrete Driveway
Salt-based solutions can cause damage to concrete, pavers, lawns, wood, and decks. It can also be tracked indoors, causing carpet and hardwood surface damage.
Hence, you should opt for salt-free, acetate-free, and natural ice melt to keep your premises safe. Moreover, these chloride-free industrial ice melt have traction agents to avoid slip-and-fall incidents.
Safe Thaw is a unique, environmentally friendly, and effective ice melt approved for use on all driveway surfaces. It doesn’t negatively impact the life of your driveway. Safe Thaw contains special surfactants & ice melting boosters. It helps keep your driveway free from slippery ice layers even at very low temperatures and prevents unwanted accidents. Therefore, it’s considered the best way to melt ice on driveway.
100% salt & chloride-free, fast acting Ice Management Solution
Repairing Salt Damage to Concrete
This involves several steps, including:
- Surface Cleaning: Removing any loose or deteriorated concrete.
- Rebar and Reinforcement Inspection: Checking for corrosion and addressing any issues.
- Resurfacing: Applying a concrete resurfacer to restore the appearance and functionality of the surface.
- Sealing: Applying a concrete sealer to protect against future damage.
Repairing Frost-Damaged Concrete Involves:
- Thawing: Ensuring the concrete is completely thawed before starting repairs.
- Chipping and Cleaning: Removing loose or damaged concrete and thoroughly cleaning the surface.
- Patch Application: Applying a high-quality concrete patch or repair compound.
- Sealing: Sealing the repaired area to prevent moisture intrusion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to know how long your driveway will take to cure before you apply ice melt. If you have a newly poured concrete driveway, wait at least one year until applying any type of deicer. Even after this time, test out the product in an inconspicuous section first before making it a regular part of your routine.
FAQs
Try Also Our Other Winter Safety Products:
Traction Magic
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Safe Paw
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