Things to Keep Walkways From Getting Icy

Rock Salt

• Rock salt is the tried and true method for preventing or reducing icy buildup along steps, walkways and driveways. The salt combines with moisture to form brine that helps to melt ice and snow while keeping further ice from bonding and accumulating on surfaces. Rock salt is inexpensive and widely available; however, it isn’t an eco-friendly choice. Rock salt runoff can harm gardens, grass and cause heavy metals to leach into ground soil, while also threatening aquatic life.

Sand

• Although sand will not actually melt ice or snow, it can be used as an alternative to rock salt to make the icy surfaces less slick. The sand provides traction to prevent pets and passersby from slipping on slick ice, and its use has no harmful effects upon the environment. Simply sprinkle a few handfuls over an icy walkway to make it less slippery until you are able to shovel.

Fireplace Ash

• Ash residue from home fireplaces is an eco-friendly and cost-efficient alternative to rock salt for de-icing frozen, slippery sidewalks and walkways and providing traction for passersby. Gather fireplace ashes in a metal container and wait until the ashes are cool before sprinkling them generously onto icy walkways and drives. Not only is fireplace ash harmless to the environment, it can also act as a fertilizer that improves grass and soil quality.

Calcium Magnesium Acetate

• Calcium magnesium acetate is an eco-friendly rock salt alternative available in many hardware and home improvement stores. It can be a little more expensive than rock salt, but is non-corrosive and biodegradable and will de-ice walkways at low temperatures. Some manufacturers claim their calcium magnesium acetate formulas are pet safe as well.