Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 8/10/2009

Question
MY BUILDER HASTILY PUT IN A CONCRETE PATIO LATE IN THE FALL.  IN THE WINTERTIME I UNSUSPECTINGLY PUT OUT A LOT OF ROCK SALT BECAUSE I DIDN'T WANT TO FALL IN THE ICE AND SNOW! IN THE SPRING I NOTICED THAT WHERE I HAD PUT THE SALT THE CONCRETE WAS "EATING AWAY" AND PITTED.  CAN THERE BE A SOLUTION FOR THIS REPAIR?  A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE TOLD ME THAT IF A PATIO DOES NOT "SET UP" IT NEVER WILL AND REPAIRS CANNOT BE MADE.  I AM DEVASTATED AS THE HOUSE IS ONLY 2 1/2 YEARS OLD AND LOOKS HORRIBLE FROM THE ENTRANCE OF THE HOME.  HELP!!

Answer
Hi Regina, some people pay extra for a salt finish on their concrete.  But if you don't like the look the patio can be resurfaced simply with a Patchcrete concrete surfacing cement.  I doubt if the salt ruined the concrete.  It may have pitted the surface but Concrete can withstand salt quite well structurally but the salt can eat into the surface and over a period of many years can eventually eat into the depth of the slab enough to cause structural problems.  If you have someone resurface your concrete or if you do it yourself be sure to etch the concrete well prior to the topping.  Muriatic acid and other etching acids are used to clean and prepare the surface for good adhesion of the patchcrete.  Follow all directions from the manufacturer regarding etching, patching and sealing of your patio.  If someone can use a trowel and finish concrete to a flat smooth surface they can do this project.  

Regarding the "not setting up" comments others have made about your concrete. This pertains to frozen concrete.  If the concrete was poured and left without protection during a hard freeze it will literally fall apart.  You did not indicate as to what the weather was like during the concrete pour so I am assuming it not below freezing for 24 hours or more the day of the concrete pour.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com