Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world. From buildings to sidewalks, it’s everywhere. However, concrete can be easily damaged by salt and sand, both of which can cause major issues.
If you have concrete in your home or business, it’s important to know how salt and sand can negatively impact its integrity. Let’s look at how salt and sand can lead to concrete issues and what you can do to prevent them.
Salt Damage
Concrete is porous, meaning water and other materials can penetrate its surface. Being porous isn’t an issue when the water is only present for a short period. Still, if it stays around for longer periods, particularly in freezing temperatures, it can cause significant damage to the concrete structure. Salt accelerates this process by further weakening the already-porous material.
Sand Damage
Sand is another natural element that can cause serious damage over time if not properly addressed. Sand particles act like tiny knives that slowly erode at the surface of concrete structures over time until they can no longer support their weight or provide any structural integrity whatsoever. The biggest problem with sand damage is that it often takes many years before any visible signs show up, making it difficult to detect early on before it becomes a major problem.
Ways To Fix and Prevent Salt and Sand Damage
The best way to fix any damage caused by salt or sand is to replace the affected concrete slabs with new ones. However, sealing and waterproofing may be a more practical solution if the damage is too extensive or the repairs cost too much. This technique involves applying a waterproof membrane or sealant to the concrete surface to prevent further salt or sand damage.
Concrete leveling can also repair and prevent salt or sand damage. This step involves using a concrete grinder to smooth out any uneven surfaces caused by the salt or sand and then sealing the entire thing with a protective coating.
Salt and sand impact concrete structures over time if not properly addressed during maintenance cycles or when building new structures from scratch. Salt causes expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations, while sand erodes at its surface until it loses its structural integrity altogether. By understanding these issues now, you can take steps towards protecting your property against them to ensure its longevity for years to come!
The Crack Guys are professional concrete contractors who specialize in crack repair, concrete leveling, and sealant application. We provide a wide range of services, from concrete cleaning and sealing to crack repair. Let us help you protect your property against the damaging effects of salt and sand. Contact us today to learn more about our services!
