J. Bazella Concrete Construction Company

Salt/Chlorides and Damage


Salt damage is most commonly due to exposure from de-icing salts. However, any chemical containing chlorides, including sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride etc. found in “de-icing chemicals,” fertilizers and ocean water present a danger to the concrete. All are acidic, and attack the bonds that hold concrete together.

Here are a few related factors caused by the exposure of salt or chemicals containing chlorides:


  1. Salt, a mild acid, lowers the pH in the concrete. The acidic reaction attacks the cement paste (portland) and aggregate. This increases the pore size and allows additional water and other contaminating chemicals into the concrete. This will exacerbate the freeze/thaw cycle damage.
  2. Salt is hygroscopic. This means that salt attracts and retains water. When salt or chlorides are applied to concrete, they attract additional water into the open pores of the concrete. This process leaves little room for strengthening in the concrete and creates more pressure inside the concrete when it freezes, causing the surface to chip, flake, and pop (spalling).
  3. Salt accelerates the carbonation process. Carbonation is a process that slowly reduces the pH levels in concrete by contact with Carbon Dioxide. This process also contributes to the corrosion of reinforcing steel.
  4.  Chlorides are a major player in the corrosion of reinforcement, as they pierce the thin protective iron oxide layer surrounding the reinforcement and initiate a corrosive reaction in the steel. ​

When it comes to the care and everyday maintenance, J. Bazella Concrete Construction Company knows concrete.


At J. Bazella Concrete Construction Company, we have several maintenance and service programs available. Our maintenance programs cover cleaning, pressure washing, sealing, re-sealing, staining, re-staining, cleaning and care for pervious concrete and just about anything concrete related. If your concrete is cracked, we have options. If your concrete is beat up and not nice to look at, we have ideas. If you like the look of new and fresh concrete (regardless of finish) and just don't have the time for the up keep or care, we have a "Maintenance Program" for you. Just request more info from us in the contacts or just call us. We offer Maintenance Programs for all Commercial, Industrial and Residential projects.

Maintenance and Service Programs