Salting an Icy Driveway

Shovel as much snow from on top of the ice layer as possible shortly after precipitation stops. The less snow there is, the more efficiently the salt works. Prompt, thorough shoveling after snow events can even eliminate the need for deicing salts altogether.

Sprinkle a thin, even layer of deicing salt across the driveway. Use an old cup, scoop or other container to sprinkle the salt onto the ice. Multiple types of deicing salts are readily available and suitable for home driveway use. These range from the traditional rock salt, or sodium chloride and calcium chloride to fertilizers like urea that contain nitrogen salts.

Check on the driveway several hours after applying the deicer. Shovel off any ice that has sufficiently detached from the driveway surface and reapply additional deicing salt anywhere that it is needed.

Pre-treat the driveway one to two hours before any snow events are expected. Dissolve the deicing salt in warm water, and then spray this solution on the driveway surface. This briny solution prevents the formation of an ice layer bonding to the driveway surface.