Concrete is one of the most durable building materials but is not immune to damage. Cracks, spalling, and surface wear occur over time due to weather, chemical exposure, and poor maintenance. Without proper care, concrete deterioration can lead to costly repairs.
This guide covers common causes of concrete damage, effective concrete repair methods, and long-term maintenance strategies to keep surfaces in top condition.
Top 3 Causes Of Concrete Damage
Did you know that concrete is the second most-used substance in the world after water? It’s incredibly strong, but certain factors can weaken it over time. Cracks, weather damage, and chemical exposure can take a toll. The good news? Understanding these threats can help prevent costly repairs and keep your concrete surfaces in great shape for years.
1) Freeze-Thaw Cycles & Moisture Intrusion
According to Britannica, Virginia’s winter varies by region.
- The southeast has mild winters with 40°F (4°C) average temperatures and little snowfall.
- The Tidewater and Piedmont regions are colder due to continental weather influences.
- The mountains experience the harshest winters, with temperatures dropping to 0°F (-18°C) and snowfall reaching 30 inches (760 mm).
- Precipitation across the state ranges from 32 to 44 inches (810 to 1,120 mm) annually.
If you live in Virginia, your concrete is at risk from freeze-thaw cycles. Freeze-thaw cycles weaken concrete over time. Water seeps into small pores and cracks. When the state’s temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands by 9%. This creates internal pressure that causes cracks and surface damage. When the ice melts, more water enters, making the concrete weaker. Each freeze-thaw cycle increases stress and leads to spalling, scaling, and deeper cracks. Over time, the structure breaks down and needs costly repairs.
Prevention Tip: Repair concrete cracks by applying a high-quality sealant like NexusPro. This prevents water intrusion and reduces the risk of freeze-thaw damage.
2) Chemical Exposure (Salt, Bleach, Acidic Substances)
Concrete is tough, but harsh chemicals can weaken it over time. De-icing salts, bleach, acidic substances, and some cleaning products break down the bonds in concrete, leading to surface scaling, pitting, and corrosion.
Below are common chemical threats and their effects:
- Will bleach damage concrete? When properly diluted, bleach can clean concrete surfaces without harming them. However, if not rinsed thoroughly, it may degrade sealers or coatings.
- Does calcium chloride damage concrete? Calcium chloride can significantly weaken and damage concrete over time. Commonly used as a de-icer, calcium chloride is effective at lower temperatures. However, it can form slippery surfaces on concrete and may contribute to surface scaling if overused.
- Does ice melt damage concrete? Some de-icers, especially those containing sodium chloride (rock salt), can damage concrete surfaces and nearby vegetation. Less corrosive alternatives, like calcium magnesium acetate, are recommended.
- Does salt damage concrete? Regular use of rock salt can lead to surface scaling and concrete deterioration. It’s less effective at lower temperatures and can be harmful to plants.
- Will vinegar damage a concrete driveway? No, white vinegar will not significantly damage concrete when used properly. However, because vinegar is acidic, prolonged or frequent use may weaken the cement that binds the concrete together, especially if not rinsed.
- Will baking soda damage concrete? Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a safe and effective cleaning agent for concrete surfaces. Its mild abrasiveness allows it to remove dirt and stains without damaging the concrete.
- Can muriatic acid damage concrete? This strong acid can remove tough stains and efflorescence from concrete but must be used cautiously. Improper application can cause surface etching and weaken the concrete. Always dilute appropriately and neutralize the surface afterward.
Prevention Tip: Avoid de-icing salts in winter. Instead, use sand or calcium magnesium acetate. For cleaning, stick to pH-neutral solutions to prevent surface damage.
3) Structural Stress & Soil Shifting
Heavy loads, poor installation, and shifting soil can cause concrete to settle or crack. Sidewalks, driveways, and patios are especially vulnerable to these forces. Over time, weak or unstable soil beneath concrete slabs leads to uneven surfaces and potential tripping hazards.
Prevention Tip: PolyLevel® foam injection is an effective sinking concrete repair solution for lifting and stabilizing sunken concrete. This method fills voids beneath slabs, preventing further sinking and extending the lifespan of your concrete.
Concrete Maintenance: How to Prevent Concrete Damage
Want your concrete to last for years without cracks, stains, or costly repairs? A little maintenance goes a long way. With the right care, you can keep your driveway, patio, or sidewalks in top shape and avoid expensive fixes down the road.
Keep It Clean & Inspect Regularly
Dirt and debris might not seem like a big deal, but they trap moisture and speed up wear. Cleaning your concrete helps prevent buildup and keeps it looking fresh.
- Wash it every 6–12 months – Use a mild detergent and low-pressure wash to avoid surface damage.
- Check for cracks – Small cracks let in moisture, which leads to bigger problems over time.
- Avoid harsh chemicals – Bleach and vinegar can slowly break down the concrete’s surface.
Pro Tip: Pressure washing works, but too much pressure can erode the top layer. Stick to low-pressure settings to keep your concrete strong.
Seal It For Maximum Protection
Sealing concrete is one of the best ways to prevent damage. It blocks moisture, stains, and chemical exposure, keeping your concrete strong and durable.
Why SealantPro™ is the best concrete sealant?
✔️ One-time application – No need to reapply every year.
✔️ Stops moisture damage – Prevents cracks and freeze-thaw cycles.
✔️ Protects against salt & chemicals – Keeps de-icers and cleaning agents from eating away at the surface.
✔️ Extends the lifespan of your concrete – Saves you money on repairs.
💡 Think of sealant as sunscreen for your concrete—without it, the surface is exposed to moisture, chemicals, and the elements. Apply it once and get long-lasting protection.
Be Careful With Ice Melt & Chemicals
Some de-icers do more harm than good—especially rock salt and calcium chloride, which can weaken concrete and cause cracks.
✅ Use Instead:
- Concrete-safe de-icers like calcium magnesium acetate (CMA).
- Sand for traction without the chemical damage.
- pH-neutral cleaners to keep surfaces clean without causing wear.
How To Repair Concrete Cracks & Damage?
Are you noticing cracks in your concrete? Don’t ignore them! Small cracks may not seem like a big deal, but they let in moisture, which can lead to bigger problems down the road. Deep or widening cracks could mean foundation movement or soil shifting, so it’s important to act fast.
How Bad Is The Crack?
- Hairline Cracks and Surface Damage: Mostly cosmetic, but they let in water, which can weaken the concrete over time.
- Deep or Expanding Cracks: These can signal serious structural issues and need professional repair.
How To Fix It?
✅ Small Cracks: Use a flexible sealant to block water and keep the crack from getting worse.
✅ Sinking Concrete: If your sidewalk, driveway, or patio is uneven, the problem is likely beneath the surface. PolyLevel® foam injection lifts and stabilizes concrete without tearing it out.
✅ Widespread Surface Damage: If your concrete is flaking, pitting, or scaling, a resurfacing treatment like Vuba Stone resin or a complete replacement can restore its look and strength.
When To Call A Professional For Concrete Repair
Some concrete issues go beyond DIY fixes and need expert attention. Ignoring serious damage can lead to safety hazards, costly repairs, and even structural failure. If you notice sinking slabs, deep cracks, or crumbling surfaces, it’s time to bring in a professional.
Signs You Need Professional Concrete Repair
🚨 Not all cracks are the same. Some are purely cosmetic, but others signal deeper structural issues.
Here’s when you should call in an expert:
❌ Sinking slabs or uneven sidewalks often means the soil underneath shifts or erodes. Uneven concrete is not just unsightly—it’s a tripping hazard.
❌ Deep cracks spreading across driveways or patios – Large, expanding cracks mean more than surface damage. They can be a sign of foundation movement or weak soil conditions. Filling them with a standard caulk won’t stop them from growing—they need professional reinforcement.
❌ Surface flaking and crumbling – When concrete starts to flake, spall, or crumble, it’s a clear sign of deterioration caused by freeze-thaw cycles, chemical exposure, or improper installation. However, once concrete is severely crumbling, replacement is often the best option. That’s why part of our inspection process at Ogburn Concrete is determining whether repair or replacement is the right solution.
❌ Standing water or moisture issues – Pooled water means the concrete isn’t draining properly, which can lead to erosion, cracking, and even mold growth. Professionals can assess the slope and install drainage solutions to prevent long-term water damage.
Why Choose Ogburn Concrete Leveling And Resurfacing?
When it comes to concrete repair, experience matters. Ogburn Concrete has 30+ years of expertise in restoring concrete safely and efficiently. They use industry-leading solutions like:
✔️ PolyLevel® – Lifts and stabilizes sinking concrete with precision.
✔️ NexusPro® – A flexible sealant that prevents cracks from expanding.
✔️ SealantPro™ – A long-lasting concrete sealant that protects against moisture, stains, and chemicals.
FAQs About Concrete Damage
Does efflorescence damage concrete?
This white, powdery deposit forms when water carries soluble salts to the surface of concrete. While primarily an aesthetic issue, it indicates moisture movement, which can lead to further deterioration if not addressed.
How long does it take for salt to damage concrete?
Damage can appear in one winter season, especially in freeze-thaw conditions.
Does pressure washing damage concrete?
When done correctly, pressure washing is an effective method for cleaning concrete. However, using excessively high pressure can erode the surface layer, making it more susceptible to future damage.
Protect & Maintain Your Concrete
Concrete damage is preventable with proactive maintenance, proper sealing, and timely repairs. By understanding common threats and choosing trusted repair solutions, homeowners and businesses can extend the lifespan of their concrete surfaces.
📞 Ready to protect your concrete? Contact Ogburn Concrete today for a free consultation and services such as sidewalk concrete repairs!