7 Great Snow And Ice Removal Hacks

While there are many ingenious uses for salt, such as repairing slick surfaces, rock salt isn’t always simple to come by after temperatures fall below the freezing point of ice. Winterizing your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune in rock salt or high-tech equipment. People also use ice melter homemade, which is safer than salt but not as effective as salt-free, natural ice melt. So, here are seven great snow and ice removal hacks.

Salt-Free, Natural Ice Melt

The green ice melt can minimize your winter worries as it is safe for all and works effectively in all temperatures. It is salt-free and has natural ingredients. It is non-corrosive and safe for concrete and metals. You can use it around your kids and pets without worrying about any toxins. It is the answer to the question of what kind of salt can you use on new concrete. It is entirely safe for new as well old concrete while being free from corrosive salt.

Sand Or Gravel

Pay attention to the weather prediction and distribute gravel, wood chips, and straw to offer traction before snow and ice develop. Sand can also improve ice traction and is harmless to plants. It needs to be cleaned up after usage to avoid clogging drains and run-off into plants and gardens. Moreover, it will not melt ice but will only provide traction.

Salt Based Ice Melt

Some commercial salt-based ice melts work by collecting moisture and forming a liquid brine. These commercial ice melt treatments can injure plants, while others can harm pets. People tend to be confused regarding what kind of salt you can use on new concrete. Never use these products on freshly laid concrete to avoid harm.

Table-Salt

When used in moderation, table salt also works as a temporary deicer. To avoid a hard frost forming overnight on your car windshield,  spread it over the windows the night before. Use this approach cautiously because it can damage the areas you’re deicing if you use it too often.

Warm Water

Pour lukewarm water over the area to melt ice from car windows, door locks, steps, or walkways. You may need to repeat the process multiple times depending on how much ice has piled up. Using hot water to speed up the process will fracture windows, deform the metal, and eventually crack concrete due to the temperature difference.

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Plastic Sheet

Cover your car, porch steps, and walkways with a strong cloth or tarp if snow is expected. Drag the snow-filled tarp to the side of the yard before you leave the house in the morning. However, this technique will only work in the event of a very light snowfall.

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Blower

Just because fall is over doesn’t mean you should put your leaf blower away. Use your blower to clear light snow from steps, walkways, driveways, and cars for double duty. It can be used only in mild snow showers.Choosing the Right Ice Melt

When selecting the best ice melt, not all products are created equal. Traditional salts such as sodium chloride or magnesium chloride may effectively melt ice, but they can also lead to damage to your driveway, plants, and even be harmful to pets. Safe alternatives, like those offered by Safe Paw, are designed to be non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

Ice melt works by lowering the freezing point of water, allowing the ice to break down. However, knowing when to apply is crucial. For the most effective results, apply ice melt before a storm hits. This preventive measure can help reduce ice buildup, making shoveling or using other snow removal equipment easier.

Winter Storm Preparation and De-Icing

One of the keys to winter storm preparation is to stay ahead of ice formation. Before snowstorms arrive, applying a layer of ice melt on your driveway, sidewalks, or other surfaces can prevent snow from bonding with the pavement, making it easier to clear. This preventive de-icing strategy saves both time and effort in the long run.

To further protect your property, be sure to:

• Clear snow early: Don’t wait until the snow piles up. Frequent clearing during a snowstorm prevents snow from becoming compacted and icy.
• Use the right tools: A good snow shovel or snow blower complements ice melt application, ensuring surfaces remain clear.

Snow Removal Equipment Essentials

In addition to ice melt, investing in the proper snow removal equipment is vital. Depending on the severity of the winter season and the size of your property, different tools will be necessary. A snow blower can save time, while a sturdy snow shovel allows you to reach tight areas.

For larger areas or heavy snowfalls, consider these tools:

• Snow Blower: For bigger driveways and walkways, a snow blower can handle heavy snow accumulation. It’s faster than shoveling and pairs well with de-icing.
• Snow Roof Rake: This is a specialized tool used to clear snow from rooftops, preventing ice dams and damage to your roof.
• Ice Scraper: Effective for hard-to-remove ice patches, especially after using ice melt.

Maintaining Safety Throughout Winter

Keeping pathways clear isn’t just about convenience; it’s a critical part of winter storm preparation for safety. Slippery ice patches can lead to injuries from falls, so frequent snow removal combined with strategic de-icing is essential for ensuring the safety of you, your family, and visitors.

As part of your winter maintenance, make sure to:

• Use eco-friendly ice melts to avoid environmental damage while still maintaining safety.
• Apply ice melt as a pre-treatment before storms hit.
• Regularly check and reapply to areas where ice builds up quickly.

Conclusion

Even though we have many hacks and tricks for snow and ice removal, the safest and most effective snow removal technique is salt-free and natural ice melt. It is non-corrosive and will not damage your concrete, pets, and plants.