Will Driveway Sealing Keep Ice Melt From Hurting It?

When winter hits Kansas, homeowners rely on ice melt to keep their driveways safe and slip-free. But many don’t realize that certain de-icing products can slowly damage concrete—causing pitting, scaling, surface flaking, and long-term deterioration.

So the big question is:

Does sealing your driveway protect it from ice melt damage?

The answer—yes, absolutely.

At Top Flake Coatings, we seal driveways every year across Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan, Osage City, Olathe, and Junction City. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Ice Melt Damages Concrete

Ice melt doesn’t just sit on top of the concrete. Most products (especially those high in chlorides) pull moisture into the surface. When temperatures swing above and below freezing, that trapped moisture expands and contracts, causing:

• Surface flaking

• Hairline cracks

• Pop-outs

• Premature aging

• Spalling (concrete breaking apart)

Add in salt corrosion and Kansas freeze-thaw cycles, and unsealed driveways take a beating fast.

How Driveway Sealing Protects Against Ice Melt

A quality concrete sealer adds a protective barrier that keeps moisture, chemicals, and salt from absorbing into the driveway.

Benefits of sealing before winter:

 Blocks ice melt chemicals from penetrating the surface

 Reduces freeze-thaw damage by keeping water out

 Makes the concrete less porous, preventing pitting and scaling

 Keeps your driveway looking newer longer

 Makes cleanup easier in spring

When sealed properly, your driveway is far more resistant to winter weather and everyday wear.

Do All Sealers Protect the Same?

Not at all.

There are two main types of driveway sealers:

1. Penetrating Sealers (Best for Winter Protection)

These soak into the concrete and create a hydrophobic barrier.

They don’t change the look of the concrete but offer the strongest protection against ice melt.

2. Film-Forming Sealers (Acrylic/Coating Style)

These create a glossy or satin finish on top of the surface.

They add curb appeal and extra protection but may require more frequent maintenance.

At Top Flake Coatings, we choose the right sealer based on your driveway’s age, condition, and goals.

How Long Does Sealing Protection Last?

Kansas weather is rough. A good sealer typically lasts:

• 12–24 months for standard acrylic sealers

• 3–7 years for high-quality penetrating sealers

We recommend sealing your driveway every 1–2 years depending on traffic and winter exposure.

Should You Still Use Ice Melt on a Sealed Driveway?

Yes—but choose the right product.

We recommend calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) or calcium chloride, as they’re less harsh on concrete.

Avoid:

Rock salt (sodium chloride)

Magnesium chloride

Fertilizer-based melts

Anything labeled “fast-acting,” “extreme,” or “high chloride content”

A sealed driveway gives protection—but combining it with the right ice melt keeps it safe long-term.

Final Answer: Will Driveway Sealing Keep Ice Melt From Hurting It?

Yes.

Sealing your driveway is one of the best ways to prevent winter damage, extend its lifespan, and keep your concrete looking clean and strong.

If you want to protect your driveway before the next Kansas freeze, Top Flake Coatings can help.

Schedule Your Driveway Sealing Today

Serving Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan, Osage City, Olathe, and Junction City.

Top Flake Coatings

sealing

Epoxy flooring

Power washing

Surface protection