How to Seal Driveways From Salt and Erosion

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Sealing Driveways From Salt and Erosion 2025

Concrete Sealer Review remains a trusted resource for concrete sealer tips and advice from professionals since 1993. Here we have an updated article on how to seal your driveway from salt and erosion to increase the lifespan of your concrete and brick paver surfaces. Any questions? Feel free to leave us a comment with any pictures below.


A driveway is obviously an important surface when it comes to the exterior of your home. Most of us take them for granted until it comes time to make costly repairs. In areas of the country that see cold winters, salt and erosion can be a huge problem for a driveway. Salt can eat away at the surface of concrete causing chipping and erosion issues. Moisture can also penetrate the driveway and create freezing and thawing damage in as little as one harsh winter season.

To protect your driveway from salt and erosion it is best to seal it. Sealing a driveway will stop most of the damaging effects of winter weather. The sealer will repel moisture and salt so the driveway surface is not harmed. When it comes to sealing a driveway there are a few steps necessary for a successful result. When the weather is appropriate for applying a sealer prior to winter, the surface should first be cleaned. Use a quality concrete cleaner along with a pressure washer to remove dirt, grime, mold, and mildew. The concrete cleaner will help break down these contaminants including tannin stains from sticks, leaves, and acorns so the surface is completely clean prior to sealing.

Once you clean the driveway you should let it air dry for 1 to 2 days. Now you are ready to apply the driveway sealer. This can be accomplished by using a brush, roller, or garden-type pump sprayer in most situations. There are many different types of driveway sealers but it is best to apply a penetrating type sealer. Do not apply more sealer than the concrete can absorb. Start in a small area of the driveway to get familiar with the amount of sealer that needs to be applied. If the sealer is not absorbed after 10 to 15 minutes back brush or wipe the excess away. Do not allow excess puddles to dry on the surface.

Always follow the manufacturer’s application instructions. Multiple coats may be necessary depending on the porosity of the driveway. Following these guidelines and knowing how to seal driveways from salt and erosion can save you a lot of money down the road by avoiding costly repairs. Protect your investment and safeguard your driveway from salt and erosion.

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Scott Paul ~ Restoring Concrete Since 1993 Owner
As an article and comment contributor to the site, Scott has been around the pressure washing industry since attending college. In 1993, he started his first company called Oakland Pressure Wash, specializing in exterior pressure washing and concrete/brick paver sealing. That company evolved into OPW L.L.C. shortly thereafter, concentrating more on exterior wood and concrete/paver restoration. Scott and his Pressure Cleaning Michigan company have restored over 10,000 projects in the Metro Detroit area since the early years. He has become an authority in the concrete and brick pavers restoration industry and has contributed to numerous forums and informative sites. All the products he suggests through this site are sold online and in retail stores, allowing consumers to choose their means of purchase. Scott’s eCommerce sites sell many of the top brands he endorses, and if you appreciate any of the help he has offered, feel free to purchase from one of them.

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Richard
Richard
4 years ago

My 10 year old driveway and walk is brushed concrete with a painted design where solvent-based acrylic paints were applied. I have applied H&C Concrete Sealer Clear Gloss Oil Based every two years with fair results. However, I would like to switch to a better sealer. What do you suggest?

Richard
Richard
4 years ago

Here are the pictures. This type of driveway coating is very popular in Florida.

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Richard
Richard
4 years ago

Here you go

IMG_20201210_104206.jpg
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IMG_20201210_104133.jpg
Kyle
Kyle
4 years ago

do you have a recommendation on a concrete driveway cleaner to use. I don’t know if the concrete driveway was ever sealed 30 years ago? Should I do that after I clean it? Thank you.

Mona Porche
Mona Porche
8 years ago

Our driveway pavers looked stained with a red clay look in some areas. Will the sealer have any color to cover the
stained pavers?

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