The answer is yes, salt does indirectly damage your concrete driveways, patios and sidewalks. Bumps and potholes don't just appear due to regular wear and tear – salt damages concrete over time by causing corrosion to occur under the surface, leading to discolored, cracked and crumbling concrete.

How long does it take for salt to damage concrete?

All concrete is not created equal. The types of concrete that are most susceptible to spalling damage is freshly poured concrete and low strength concrete. Newly poured concrete, which is still holding a high water content already, usually needs around 30 days to “harden off” before rock salts can be used.

Is it OK to put salt on concrete?

Salt does not damage concrete, but the effects of salt can. ... Salt does not chemically react with hardened concrete. Salt does however lower the freezing point of water, attract moisture, and increase pressure of frozen water.