How to Clear a Driveway of a Wintry Mix

Denizens of colder climates typically have to deal with the dreaded wintry mix storm at least a few times every winter. This mixture of snow, freezing rain and sleet freezes to driveways and wreaks havoc on busy roadways. To clear your driveway of a wintry mix, remove the loose snow and slush first. Then, use rock salt, chemicals or environmentally-friendly de-icing products to melt the ice that has frozen to your driveway. If you have a medical condition, talk to your doctor first or consider hiring a professional to perform this arduous work for you.

Snow blower or shovel
Rock salt
Chemical de-icer
Gloves
Acetate-based de-icer
Calcium magnesium acetate
Sand or kitty litter
Anti-icer

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the loose snow and slush from the driveway with a snow blower or shovel. Begin removing the snow before the storm has ended. Shoveling lighter amounts of snow and sleet is less challenging than shoveling a foot of snow at a time. If you use a shovel, avoid twisting your back and be sure to lift with your legs. Carry small loads of snow more frequently, rather than fewer, heavier loads.
- 2
  Spread rock salt on the icy parts of the driveway. This will melt the ice as long as the temperatures stay above 12 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 3
  Spread a chemical de-icer when temperatures are lower than 12 degrees F. Apply calcium chloride or magnesium chloride over the icy areas. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- 4
  Use an environmentally-friendly de-icer if you have pets or children that might pick up chemicals from the driveway. Some brands, such as those that are acetate-based, market pet-friendly driveway de-icers. Spread these in the same manner as the chemicals. Calcium magnesium acetate is also an alternative de-icer.
- 5
  Spread sand or kitty litter on icy areas to improve traction while you wait for the wintry mix to melt.

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