Updated November 1, 2026. General information only, not legal, engineering, or insurance advice.
What causes it
NRMCA links scaling to freezing and thawing, especially with deicers, on concrete that is not air-entrained, was finished while bleed water was on the surface or over-worked, or was not properly cured.
What to ask for on a new pour
- Air-entrained concrete suited to severe freeze-thaw exposure
- No finishing while bleed water is present, and no over-troweling
- A broom finish for exterior flatwork
- Proper curing
Deicer tips
- Avoid deicers in the first winter
- Use them in moderation afterward
- Never use deicers containing ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate
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