How to Repair Salt-Damaged Concrete

  1. Sweep the damaged concrete with a stiff-bristle push broom, using vigorous motions to dislodge any remaining chips and crumbles from the concrete.
  2. Stir the solution well with a paint stirrer, and then use a paintbrush to apply a thin layer over the entire damaged area of concrete.

How do you seal salt damaged concrete?

If you already have salt damage, or if your concrete is showing signs of deterioration, you should apply a sodium or lithium silicate densifier. Densifier sealers penetrate into the surface of the concrete where they chemically react to form a permanent calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) structure within the pores.

Can you repair badly damaged concrete?





Resurfacing your badly damaged concrete is a good way to renew your concrete without having to demo and replace it with new concrete. In most cases, I’ve found repairing and resurfacing a concrete walkway, patio, or driveway is much less expensive than removing the old concrete and re-pouring a new one.

How do you fix spalling concrete?

Spalled concrete may be caused by any of the following: Freeze-thaw cycles. De-icing salts.
If your concrete is spalling, these are the repair options:

  1. Patch the spalled area with a color matching compound.
  2. Have your concrete resurfaced with an overlay.
  3. Rip out and replace the entire slab.

Can you fix pitted concrete?

Once the surface begins to pit, filling the divots with concrete is usually a temporary fix that loosens over time. You can fill pits with a bonding concrete repair material, which is similar to caulk. Restoring the porch to a more original appearance requires dressing it with a special resurfacing concrete mixture.

Can salt damage concrete be repaired?





Winter ice is dangerous, and salt is typically used to melt it away from driveways, walkways and steps. However, concrete can deteriorate if the salt is left in place for a long time. If you have exterior areas of concrete that have dimples or shallow cracks in them, the best solution is to apply concrete patch.

Does salt ruin your driveway?

The answer is yes, salt does indirectly damage your concrete driveways, patios and sidewalks. Bumps and potholes don’t just appear due to regular wear and tear – salt damages concrete over time by causing corrosion to occur under the surface, leading to discolored, cracked and crumbling concrete.

How do you patch a concrete driveway?

How to Resurface a Concrete Driveway

  1. Remove debris. If a crack is less than a quarter-inch, it’s a prime candidate for simple resurfacing. …
  2. Wash the driveway. Wet down the driveway with a pressure washer. …
  3. Mix concrete and water. …
  4. Fill the cracks. …
  5. Let dry. …
  6. Resurface. …
  7. Prevent slips. …
  8. Watch the video above to learn more!

How can I make my concrete driveway look new again?



3 Ways to Make Old Concrete Look New Again

  1. Power Wash. Over time, your concrete will accumulate grime and dirt. …
  2. Resurface. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to improve your curb appeal, resurfacing your concrete steps and driveway is a great way to start. …
  3. Add Stain or Sealing Coats. …
  4. Revive Your Old Concrete.

What is the best product to resurface a concrete driveway?

Our Top Picks

  • Best For Interiors. Quikrete Fast-Setting Self-Leveling Floor Resurfacer. …
  • Best for Exteriors. Rapid Set High Strength, 15 Min Set, Featheredge. …
  • Best For Cracks. KILZ Over Armor Textured Wood/Concrete Coating. …
  • Best For Flooring. Ardex Feather Finish Grey Self-Drying Cement. …
  • Best For Small Jobs. …
  • Best Premixed.


Can you pour a thin layer of concrete over existing concrete?

How Thin Can You Pour Concrete Over Existing Concrete? The thinnest that is usually used when pouring concrete, in general, is about 2 to 2 ½ inches. That also applies to this pouring new concrete over old concrete. Any thinner than 2 inches would be too thin.

How can I make my cracked concrete driveway look better?

If your driveway needs a whole new look, a decorative concrete overlay will create a new finish that covers minor surface damage like cracks, imperfections, and discoloration. The overlay creates a durable finish and long-lasting bond with the original concrete that will not chip, crack or peel.

Can cracked concrete be resurfaced?

Concrete resurfacing to cover larger cracks or surface problems. Large cracks or holes greater than ¼”, spalling (horizontal peeling or chipping of the surface), and discoloration can be covered with resurfacing or a concrete overlay (a thin layer of cement-based material applied directly over the existing concrete).

Can you repair a cracked concrete driveway?



Cracks can usually be filled and repaired if the rest of the driveway is in good shape and it was installed properly in the first place. It’s a good idea to wear rubber gloves when handling concrete fillers, mixers and resurfacers.

Can you resurface a cracked driveway?

You should never try to resurface a severely damaged driveway. A concrete coating will not last on a surface that isn’t viable. If your existing concrete slab has very large cracks, deep cracks, or has areas that are severely uneven you may need to have it demolished and start from scratch.

Can You Use Flex Seal to fill driveway cracks?

It can seal asphalt to concrete, asphalt to asphalt, and concrete to concrete. Flex-A-Fill sealant has been used to seal cracks in swimming pools, pipes, and to waterproof roofs. Whether the application is commercial or residential, Flex-A-Fill crack sealant can do the job and do it right the first time.

How can I redo my cheap driveway?

Of the four paving materials described in this guide, aggregate (gravel) is the least expensive, followed by asphalt, concrete, and paving stones. If you’re installing your driveway on a shoestring budget, gravel is your best choice. If you have more wiggle room, you’ll have more choice.