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Coastal & De-icing Salt Considerations

Chlorides from sea air and winter road salts can corrode reinforcing steel and deteriorate concrete. Here’s how to minimize damage across driveway materials.

Cold Climates (Freeze–Thaw)

  • Favor flexible materials (asphalt, pavers) or sealed concrete with proper air entrainment.
  • Use calcium chloride instead of rock salt on concrete and pavers.
  • Seal cracks early and keep joints filled to limit water intrusion.

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Concrete

Use air-entrained mixes and high-quality sealers; rinse periodically to reduce surface chlorides. Avoid rock salt in winter—use calcium chloride instead.

Asphalt

Sealcoating shields the binder from oxidation and salt intrusion. Address potholes early to prevent water penetration into the base.

Gravel

Excellent drainage reduces standing water and refreeze. Maintain edges and add top-up gravel to prevent washout near coastal storms.

Pavers

Permeable options limit surface runoff; maintain polymeric sand and re-seal periodically. Rinse joints after winter to reduce chloride residues.

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