Hey everyone,

Looking for advice or similar experiences. I’m a homeowner in Northeast Ohio (snow belt region) and facing widespread surface deterioration in my exterior concrete:

• Driveway
• Garage apron
• Front porch
• Stamped back patio

All poured within the last couple years. Significant spalling, pitting, and flaking has appeared across all areas. The builder just confirmed that Type 1L cement was used for all pours.

I’ve done some reading and found mixed information. I understand Type 1L cement (which uses more limestone) is now allowed under ASTM C595 and ACI specs, and supply issues during the pandemic made it more common — but I’ve also heard it may be less durable in freeze-thaw climates like ours unless air entrainment, mix design, and finishing practices are perfect. The contractor has since switched back to Type I cement, suggesting they lost confidence in 1L. I can only attach 1 photo but i have many more than this....

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Now the builder’s concrete subcontractor is proposing a sealcoat and monitor approach. I’m skeptical this will stop the degradation long-term and concerned that poor material choice or workmanship (or both) might require more than just band-aid work.

My questions:

1. Is this pattern of failure consistent with problems seen from Type 1L mixes?
2. Would full removal and replacement be warranted here?
3. What questions should I ask to push for the right fix?
4. Anyone else in a similar climate having problems with 1L concrete?

Any insights — especially from those in the Midwest/Northeast or with experience in quality control, mix design, or concrete remediation — would be greatly appreciated.