Can I Use Table Salt on My Driveway?

Can I Use Table Salt on My Driveway? Why It's a Bad Idea

No, you shouldn't use table salt on your driveway. While it works to melt ice, it's too fine and still corrosive, which damages the concrete surface. Understanding why table salt is problematic helps you choose safer alternatives that protect your concrete investment.

Why Table Salt Works (But Shouldn't Be Used)

Table salt (sodium chloride) does melt ice:

• Lowers freezing point: Salt dissolves in water and lowers the freezing point
• Melts ice: Effective at melting ice and snow
• Readily available: Most people have it at home

However, just because it works doesn't mean you should use it.

Problem 1: Too Fine

Table salt is much finer than rock salt:

Why Fineness is a Problem

• Gets into pores: Fine particles penetrate concrete pores more easily
• Harder to remove: Gets embedded in surface
• More surface contact: More surface area = more damage
• Stays longer: Doesn't wash away as easily

Result

Fine salt particles get deep into concrete pores, causing more extensive damage than larger rock salt particles.

Problem 2: Still Corrosive

Table salt is still sodium chloride, which is corrosive:

How It Damages Concrete

• Chemical attack: Salt attacks concrete chemically
• Freeze-thaw cycles: Creates repeated freeze-thaw cycles that damage surface
• Surface scaling: Top layer pops off over time
• Pitting and spalling: Creates rough, damaged surface

The Damage Process

1. Salt dissolves in water
2. Solution penetrates concrete pores
3. Freezes and expands
4. Repeated cycles cause surface damage
5. Concrete surface deteriorates

What Happens Over Time

Using table salt repeatedly causes:

Short Term (First Season)

• May not see immediate damage
• Surface may look fine

Medium Term (2-3 Years)

• Surface begins to show wear
• Small pits and spalling appear
• Surface becomes rougher

Long Term (5+ Years)

• Significant surface damage
• Extensive pitting and spalling
• Rough, deteriorated surface
• May need resurfacing or replacement

Safer Alternatives

Instead of table salt, use safer options:

For Traction Only

• Sand: Provides grip, no chemical damage
• Kitty litter: Provides traction, no damage

For Ice Melting

• Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): Safest chemical option, non-corrosive
• Magnesium chloride: Safer than salt, less corrosive

The Bottom Line

No, don't use table salt on your driveway. It works to melt ice, but it's too fine (gets deep into pores) and still corrosive (damages concrete surface). The damage accumulates over time, leading to pitting, spalling, and surface deterioration. Use sand or kitty litter for traction, or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) for safe ice melting. Protecting your concrete investment is worth avoiding the convenience of table salt.

Don't sacrifice your concrete for short-term convenience. Use safer alternatives that protect your investment.

Need help choosing safe de-icing options? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We can help you select alternatives that protect your concrete while keeping it safe in winter.