5 Ways To Make Your Driveway Less Slippery This Winter In Wisconsin
The first wave of a major winter storm is expected to reach Wisconsin Tuesday evening and linger through Thursday, according to the National Weather Service. Almost the entire state, except for a few counties near the Illinois border, is expected to see heavy snow and high winds, with some areas potentially getting over a foot.
Source: USA TODAY
So, winter in Wisconsin is also expected to bring the below-normal temperature and a lot of snow. One of the popular ways to get rid of the snow on pavements is by applying rock salt. However, these rock salts are not safe to use. Using salt to melt ice on a regular basis pits the cement used for our walkways, steps, and other concreted areas. Once the cement pits, it will eventually crack or cause potholes on your surface. Salt, when comes in contact with metal in your patio furniture, can corrode and rust it. So, you should choose concrete safe ice melt for your driveways.
What Makes A Driveway Slippery?
Several factors contribute to a slippery driveway:
- Ice Formation: Frozen water on the surface creates a slick layer.
- Snow Accumulation: Compacted snow can turn into ice, making the driveway slippery.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Melting and refreezing of snow and ice contribute to slippery conditions.
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5 Ways To Make Your Driveway Less Slippery This Winter In Wisconsin
- 1- Use Traditional Methods: Shoveling away the snow on driveways, sidewalks, and pavements is one of the most conventional methods of cleaning the snow. It may sound a little old school, but it is one of the most popular and harmless ways to protect your concrete surfaces. However, it can be a tiring exercise and dangerous for the heart because it increases heart rate and blood pressure.
- 2- Shovel At Frequent Intervals: If you’re still considering clearing your pavement manually, then shovel periodically so that it does not pile up and turn icy later. It’s easy to shovel away soft and fluffy snow. You can plan it out also. If the snowfall is still in progress, make a preliminary sweep, then go back after it’s over.
- 3- Salt-Free Deicer: While shoveling and other manual methods of clearing the snow can be strenuous, snow melters can be really helpful as they are easy to use and hardly take any effort or time. But you have to be careful here. Most of the ice melt is not only poisonous but can also damage your concrete. Savvy homeowners are always on the lookout for the best ice melt for driveways, new concrete, and roofs. Therefore, choose the best ice melt for concrete that is non-corrosive, environment-friendly, and 100% safe for your plants and pet.
- 4- Traction: Another way to fix a slippery driveway apart from using a concrete safe ice melt is by using traction. A good traction agent adds friction to the surface immediately so that you can cross the slippery layer of ice without the fear of falling. An alternative to this is to use gravel and some sand that will make the snow a little less slippery.
- 5- Fill The Cracks: Do it before the snow hits the ground. Find cracks and cervices on the surface and patch them up. A flexible sealant can do the job. It will ensure that no harm will be caused by the upcoming snow as the seal will prevent any moisture from getting into the concrete area and then weakening it once the temperature reaches the freezing point. The best is to get the best ice melt for driveways, and now you know what to do before the deadly winter months arrive.
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Most of the ice melt is corrosive in nature (even that bag of salt that has a non-corrosive inhibitor). The fact is chloride causes corrosion. Choose an ice melt that is non-toxic, chloride-free, and salt-free.“
Weather Forecast
[wpc-weather id=”2650″/]How Do I Make My Driveway Slip Resistant?
- Clear Snow and Ice: Regularly remove snow and ice buildup to prevent slippery conditions.
- Apply Traction Aids: Spread materials like sand, cat litter, or Safe Paw to improve traction.
- Use Anti-Slip Products: Consider applying anti-slip coatings or tapes designed for driveways.
- Maintain Good Drainage: Ensure proper drainage to minimize water accumulation that can freeze and create a slippery surface.
- Promoting Safety with Safe Paw: Safe Paw offers a multifunctional solution to tackle icy driveways. Not only does it melt ice, but it also provides traction, helping to prevent slips and falls. Its non-corrosive and pet-friendly formula aligns with your commitment to a safe and clean environment.
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Ice Safety Tips: Managing Slips on Ice for a Safer Winter
Ice slip injuries are more common than you think, leading to serious consequences like fractures or sprains. However, with the right ice safety tips, you can avoid these hazards and enjoy the winter wonderland worry-free.
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1. Choose Proper Footwear for Traction
One of the most effective ice safety tips is to wear shoes or boots with good traction. Look for footwear with deep treads or slip-resistant soles. Investing in traction cleats or ice grips that fit over your shoes can also make a significant difference. These tools help manage slips on ice, giving you extra grip on those icy sidewalks and driveways.
2. Use a Reliable Ice Melt for Safer Surfaces
Applying an effective ice melt can make a world of difference in preventing slips. But be mindful of what you’re using. Many ice melts contain harsh chemicals that can harm your pets, plants, and even damage concrete. That’s where Safe Paw shines. It’s a non-toxic, pet-friendly solution that provides a safe layer of protection on icy surfaces without the dangers of chloride-based alternatives.
- Eco-Friendly and Safe: Unlike traditional options, Safe Paw is gentle on your surroundings, yet powerful in keeping ice away, offering an effective method for ice slip prevention.
- Ease of Use: Simply apply before or after snowfall, and let it do the hard work of preventing ice formation on your driveways and walkways.
3. Mindful Movement to Prevent Falls
Even with ice melt, you can’t eliminate all risks. So, walking carefully on icy surfaces is crucial. Take shorter, deliberate steps to maintain your balance. Always keep your hands free to help with balance. Avoid rushing, as it’s better to arrive safely than risk an accident. These simple strategies can be instrumental in ice fall prevention.
4. Keep Entryways Clear
Pay attention to areas near entrances, steps, and other high-traffic spots. These locations tend to be extra slippery, especially when snow melts during the day and refreezes at night. Applying a safe ice melt like Safe Paw in these areas can further reduce the risk of winter falls.
- Pro Tip: Always check the weather forecast and apply ice melt before snow hits to prevent dangerous buildup.
5. Recognize Hidden Ice Patches
Ice can be deceptive—sometimes it’s barely visible on the surface, especially in shaded or wind-protected areas. This hidden ice is a common cause of ice slip injuries. A great way to counter this is to sprinkle a layer of ice melt or add sand for extra traction. Safe Paw offers an invisible shield that helps prevent ice from sticking to surfaces, making it easier to spot and manage these tricky areas.
6. Create a Safe Path to Your Vehicle
One often overlooked winter safety tip is maintaining a safe path to and from your car. Cars parked outdoors are particularly vulnerable to becoming ice traps, making it tricky when you’re trying to get in and out. Use Safe Paw along the pathway to reduce ice formation, making your trip to the car much safer.
7. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Many conventional de-icing products like calcium chloride or rock salt might seem like a quick fix but can have long-term negative effects. These chemicals can cause burns to pets’ paws, damage soil health, and even contribute to concrete deterioration. Safe Paw, on the other hand, offers a non-toxic approach, making it the ideal choice for those who want to balance effectiveness with safety.
Conclusion: Embrace a Safe Winter with the Right Tools
Keeping yourself and your loved ones safe from icy surfaces is all about preparation. Whether it’s applying a pet-friendly ice melt like Safe Paw or making small adjustments to how you walk, each step adds to your safety. Follow these ice safety tips, and you’ll be well-equipped to handle winter’s slippery challenges. Enjoy the season without the stress of slips and falls!
FAQs
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