Last year we posted a bulletin on what we knew would most likely occur with the way certain municipalities attacked the snow and ice removal in their areas.  So far, this winter has been more intense than any winter we’ve had since 1992.  In fact, we have already seen many state and local infrastructure failures due to de-icing chemical deterioration. Residential concrete flatwork is susceptible to this same damage.

The road crews used liquid magnesium and calcium chloride to de-ice the streets when the temperatures dove below twenty degrees. They also have gone to mixing sand with the solid forms of calcium chloride to help prolong their supply.  This combination will only cause even greater damage to concrete due to the abrasiveness of sand.  It is important for homeowners to be proactive and clean their garage floors and driveways whenever weather permits.  This will help to decrease the delaminating effects of these chemicals.  The maintenance with their concrete is no different than having to rake their roofs to alleviate ice damming issues.  

The Metropolitan Builders Association Industry Standard pertaining to damage resulting from salt is a measure of what is acceptable for southeastern Wisconsin.  The industry standard reads that the contractor is not responsible for deterioration caused by salt, chemicals, mechanical implements, or other factors beyond the contractor’s control.  However, there are options available for homeowners to repair their own concrete.  Concrete fillers can be purchased at Lowe’s and Home Depot.  If these are used, the area should then also be resealed.

View Statement from Wisconsin Ready Mixed Concrete Association

View 2007 Salt Damage Bulletin