Winter has been fierce with subzero temperatures and large volumes of snow and ice. Just like the roadways, it’s important to treat your walkways so your family, neighbors, and visitors can safely navigate your sidewalks and driveway. At Precision Corporation, we’re the expert concrete contractors for North Royalton and surrounding Ohio areas. Protect your concrete by applying the right ice melt for your home and family.
Does Ice Melt Damage Concrete? We Have Answers to Protect Your Outdoor Investments!
There are a variety of ice-melt products on the market. It’s important for the consumer to evaluate the use and environmental factors surrounding their home before purchasing and applying ice melt. In addition to melting ice that is on your walkways, ice melt can damage concrete, landscaping, and be harmful to your family pet. Pick the right product to safely navigate walkways while protecting your home and loved ones. Ice melt is a scientific compound bringing 2 elements together to thaw ice that is bound to the pavement. Consumer Reports offers a detailed comparison between products including the cost and benefit with detailed ice-melt explanations.
Ice Melt Options:
- Calcium Chloride
- Calcium Magnesium Acetate
- Magnesium Chloride
- Potassium Chloride
- Sodium Chloride
- Urea/Carbonyl Diamide
Avoid Corrosion
Each ice melt compound offers different results depending on temperature and time. Products using magnesium or acetate in any form should not be used on concrete due to corrosive effects.
Careful Application
Do not apply ice melt to concrete that is less than one year old, as it can disrupt curing processes. After one year, use gloved hands or a spreader to evenly disperse product onto icy areas. While these won’t have de-icing effects, some homeowners create traction on ice by using ice melt alternatives including kitty litter, sand, or sawdust.
Pet Protection
Use caution with ice melt around family pets, as sodium chloride can be lethal if ingested by animals. Consider purchasing pet-friendly alternatives available at your local pet or hardware store.
Protect the investment in your home and property by safely caring for your concrete, landscaping, tree, fencing, and irrigation installments. As your full-service outdoor contracting firm, we’re here to install your new outdoor projects and help you maintain them all year round. For questions and free estimates on your next project, contact Precision Corporation at (440) 843-9500.
Photo credit: public domain flickr.com
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2014/02/best-ice-melts/index.htm