Does Rock Salt Damage Asphalt Driveways?

During the winter months, icy and snowy conditions can make it difficult and unsafe to drive on asphalt driveways. Many people use rock salt during the winter months to melt ice and improve traction on driveways on icy winter mornings, but rock salt can also damage certain types of pavement. Read on to learn more about the effects of salt on asphalt in Saratoga Springs, NY and for some tips to effectively remove snow and ice from your pavement this winter.

Salt and pavement

The good news for many homeowners is that salt does not damage asphalt. Asphalt is made with a combination of rocks and aggregate that’s designed to withstand all kinds of adverse weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, ice accumulation and snowfall during the winter months. Asphalt isn’t seriously damaged by rock salt or other deicers. This gives property owners the ability to treat pavement with deicers without the risk of causing serious damage to their asphalt.

However, while rock salt doesn’t damage asphalt, it can cause damage to concrete pavement. Rock salt causes concrete to absorb more water, which increases damage caused by the freezing and thawing cycle during the winter. In addition, salt is acidic and can cause concrete deterioration, especially when it is used frequently. Salting concrete can cause cracking, holes and deterioration that reduces the longevity and strength of the pavement.

Deicing pavement in the winter

To protect your pavement, whether it’s concrete or asphalt, consider using an alternative to rock salt. There are lots of deicers on the market that are designed to effectively thaw ice without causing damage to paved surfaces. Look for a product that’s made for your specific type of pavement, and keep plenty of extra deicer on hand to ensure that you’re prepared to deal with unexpected winter storms or freezing temperatures. Store your deicers in a garage or other dry area where you can access them easily whenever you need them. Follow application instructions on the deicing product for the best results.

While many of these products are designed to be safe for use on pavement, it’s important to avoid overusing them. Aside from the effects of salt on asphalt in Saratoga Springs, NY, there are also some environmental factors to consider. Runoff from pavement that’s been treated with deicers, including rock salt, can damage soil and contaminate bodies of water. With that in mind, it’s best to use deicers sparingly and consider the potential effects of runoff from your pavement.

Effects of salt on asphalt in Saratoga Springs, NY

It can be challenging to keep pavement in good condition, especially during the winter months, but the team at Asphalt Industries, LLC is here to make driveway maintenance as easy as possible. We specialize in asphalt paving, maintenance and repairs, and we have developed a reputation for the quality of our services. We will assess your asphalt damage and provide you with the repair and sealcoating services you need to maintain the condition of your driveway. Call us to request a consultation and a quote.