What Will Melt Snow on a Cement Patio?

Chemical Snow-Melting Products

• Everyone is familiar with rock salt, which contains sodium and chlorine like ordinary table salt, and has been used for generations to melt snow and ice from city streets to areas around the home. It is still one of the most widely used melting products because of its low cost and ease of use, according to University of Delaware Extension educator Jo Mercer. It can damage plants and cement surfaces, however. Calcium chloride is another chemical often used for snow and ice removal. This calcium and chlorine combination gives off heat as it dissolves, melting the snow and ice on contact. It is effective at lower temperatures than rock salt. Apply these chemicals in a thin, even layer on patios to eliminate snow and ice buildup.

Hand-Held Snow Melters

• For small patio areas, homeowners can eliminate snow and ice with a hand-held, propane-fueled snow and ice blaster. These devices are relatively inexpensive and connect to 14-ounce, 22-ounce or 26-ounce propane tanks to provide continuous heat for melting snow. They come with long wands to direct the flame and eliminate bending and stooping. Propane snow-melters burn without harmful vapors and are cost-effective to use.

Above-Ground Radiant Heating Equipment

• A number of above-ground radiant heaters are available for use in warming patio areas. These can also be applied to snow melting purposes to quickly eliminate hazardous snow and ice buildup. Though more expensive than other methods, these heaters can be used year-round to make patios more comfortable and usable.

Installed In-Ground Radiant Heaters

• Another option for those interested in removing snow and ice easily from patio areas is the in-ground radiant heater. These products come in mats or cables that are set underneath the cement or paving bricks. Like indoor radiant heat systems, the devices have an temperature control that provides as much or as little heat as needed to clear the patio surface. It can even turn on automatically when a certain temperature is reached, according to the Warmzone Frequently Asked Questions site. Though expensive to install, these radiant heating devices make snow removal effortless.