By Champaign Concrete Pros · October 29, 2026
Before you scatter ice melt on your Champaign driveway this winter, know what it can do to the concrete. The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) lists excessive amounts of deicing chemicals among the causes of scaling, where the finished surface flakes or peels off after freezing and thawing. [NRMCA]
NRMCA says light scaling does not expose the coarse aggregate (the stone). Moderate scaling exposes the aggregate and may take off up to 1/8 to 3/8 inch of the surface. In severe scaling, more surface is lost and the aggregate clearly stands out. [NRMCA]
NRMCA says to avoid deicing chemicals on newly placed concrete if possible, and to avoid them in the first winter. Use clean sand for traction instead. [NRMCA]
A breathable sealer, such as a silane or siloxane, helps protect concrete. NRMCA says to apply it when the concrete is reasonably dry, and late summer is ideal. [NRMCA]
A penetrating sealer for driveways and sidewalks. NRMCA recommends a breathable sealer such as a silane or siloxane, so check the label, and apply it only when the concrete is reasonably dry.
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NRMCA says minor scaling is mostly cosmetic. Light to moderate scaling can be repaired with a thin bonded resurfacing, though the repair won't match the color of the original concrete. [NRMCA] A local concrete pro can tell you whether to resurface or replace.
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