How to Get Rid of Ice Without Harming Concrete

Starting with natural methods to get rid of ice on concrete protects the concrete from harm. If natural methods are ineffective, using deicer chemicals is the next best option. Deicers work quickly but can cause damage to the concrete, especially if it's already weak. The repeated freezing and thawing cycle, often increased by using deicers, can cause water to soak into the concrete. The water then freezes within the concrete, expands and can tear apart the concrete. Use deicers sparingly and stick with the least harsh, least corrosive deicer: magnesium chloride.

Things You'll Need

• Hoe or metal shovel
• Shovel
• Bucket
• Magnesium chloride

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Chip at the ice with a hoe or the tip of a metal shovel to remove any pieces manually that you can. Shovel the ice off of the concrete so it doesn't melt and refreeze on top of the surface.

   • 2

     Fill a bucket with warm water and pour it over any existing ice pieces to melt the ice. Shovel the slush off of the surface.

   • 3

     Sprinkle a thin layer of magnesium chloride on any areas where the ice is difficult to melt or remove by chipping. The ice should melt immediately. Shovel the thawed ice pieces off of the concrete.