Ice on Your Driveway? Melt It Without Causing Damage!

March 1, 2020

Harsh winter weather contributes to all kinds of problems around your property. For example, freezing rain and melted snow and hail can quickly become slick ice sheets covering your paved surfaces. It is hazardous for foot and vehicle traffic, and damaging to the surface itself. This is why driveway ice melting in Prince William County, VA is a common sight throughout the winter. Below we’ll take a look at the possible damaging effects of deicing salt as well as alternatives that can help you melt ice without causing damage.

Why deicing salt is damaging

It’s winter—it’s cold, wet and, in some areas of the country, icy. You might instinctively reach for salt to deice your driveway, walkways, patio or other paved surface. However, salt can actually cause damage to both asphalt and concrete surfaces. This seemingly quick deicing solution can eventually create damages like pits, cracks and breakage in paved surfaces, which only increases the possibility of slips and falls.

Safer alternatives to salt

The first step to dealing with ice on your driveway is to be proactive about asphalt and concrete ice removal in Prince William County, VA. Have a plan in place that includes one or more alternatives to salt, something better for the environment, people, animals and the landscape around your property:

  • Shovels: One of the safest alternatives to spreading salt is using a shovel. This tried-and-true method is a traditional choice, but it is not always effective enough to remove ice from saved surfaces. It’s worth a try, though—just keep in mind that a shovel can have a difficult time scraping away ice that is stuck to asphalt or concrete.
  • Sand: Because sand absorbs sunlight, spreading it on top of icy surfaces can help ice and snow melt. It also adds traction underfoot. If you’re worried that this slip-and-fall prevention technique won’t be as effective as salt, try it on a small, out-of-the-way spot first before using it on the entire area.
  • Coffee grounds: Coffee grounds are similar to sand granules in that they also absorb sunlight to help melt snow and ice faster. They also have the ability to turn a slick surface into a non-slip surface.
  • Heated mats: You might have steps leading to a driveway or patio. In this case, you can try using heated stair mats on icy steps and other paved areas around your property. Heated mats can be placed almost anywhere without causing damage to the surface.
  • Vinegar: Vinegar contains citric acid, an ingredient that is known to melt ice and snow. Be patient, as it can take a few applications to be effective.
  • Cat litter: Fresh kitty litter is a fantastic salt alternative. It creates traction, won’t cause harm to outdoor surfaces and is readily available and affordable. Get natural cat litter without chemicals or toxins to ensure it’s safe for people, pets and the environment.

Next to investing in quality asphalt or concrete installation, the key to your driveway’s survival and long life is regular maintenance. Call Paveco Inc. today to learn more about concrete ice removal in Prince William County, VA and other issues!

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