I have a driveway that is just 6 months old and its surface is wearing away and showing the stone-like base underneath. I believe it's called spalling? What is the best way to stop the deterioration? Is there some kind of sealer that will stop this? I've heard of a product called Masonry Saver. Will that work or is that just a short term solution? Does it need to be ripped out? Can we salvage this driveway? The driveway was poured in the summer during the drought, so it did not have excess rain on it. I live in North Carolina where the weather is not so severe, although we did have a week long ice storm in December. In order to protect our driveway, we chose to let the ice melt naturally and did not use any salt or plows to break up the ice, so I doubt weather had anything to do with the problem. I have heard that this problem is often due to too much water in the concrete mix. Is this true? What else could cause this? Where can I go for help if the contractor won't repair this? I need a second opinion on the extent of the damage. How should I go about this? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Driving spalling Help! Need advice
I can't see your problem, nor can I say what would have caused it. But yes, spalding is a peeling-away of the top of the concrete due to quick drying.
Normally, the concrete is kept damp and covered during droughts and on hot, sunny days, until the material cures. If this wasn't done, you'll have spalding.
As to what you can do to repair it, again, you'll need a professional opinion because I can't see the extent of the damage. Skim-coating may be an option. I suggest you PAY a Contractor from a neighboring town to evaluate your driveway. Yes, I said PAY. He won't come from 'such a distance' unless you pay him. You know - Offer him a carrot. You'll have to do it anyways if you want to SUE the original Contractor, which is what I'd do if the 'fix' is too costly. (You'll have to decide this.) An out-of-town Contractor may not have any 'relationship' w/your Contractor. It's the best you can do to get an unbiased opinion. (Maybe consider getting 2 opinions. 2 will work in your favor in court ...)
I do wish you well. My best to ya and hope this helps.
Jay J -Moderator
PS: God Bless America!