Winter home tips --How to Properly Use Salt to Melt Ice

During the winter season, the havoc that snowstorms can create, especially treacherous icy surfaces outside the home, is of great concern to homeowners.  Ice buildup on steps and walkways is extremely dangerous and can lead to accidents, putting not only household members at risk but visiting neighbors, friends and, of course, the mail carrier.

Thankfully, salt and deicer additives are effective, easy ways to melt the ice. But take note: These materials can deteriorate stone and concrete over time, not to mention be harmful to pets when they walk on the treated areas and then ingest the salt and chemicals while licking their paws.

Here are some tips for maintaining an ice-free walkway and driveway.

1       For best results, mix sand with salt. You will get the same results as if you’d used only salt, but will have much better traction, thanks to the sand.

2       Don’t wait. When it starts to snow, immediately begin shoveling.  The less buildup the better.

3       Pre-treat the driveway and walkways in anticipation of the storm, again to lessen the buildup.

4       Store the salt in an airtight container to optimize its effectiveness.