Pre-Treatments for Icy Driveways

Liquid Pre-treatment

• Homeowners can make their own "anti-ice" liquid to spray onto driveways or walkways before any frost, snow or ice forms on the pavement. Jeremy Bertrand of the Washington State Department of Transportation suggests mixing standard deicer crystals with hot water and applying this solution to driveways to prevent water crystals from bonding to the driveway. When snow is cleared from the driveway or walkways, the surface will be wet and bare rather than covered with a layer of ice or packed snow.

Chemical Deicers

• Commercially-available deicers can be used as anti-icing agents. These chemicals form a briny solution that lowers the freezing point of water. When applied prior to ice formation or snow fall, these materials prevent ice from bonding to the driveway surface. Simply broadcast the crystals evenly prior to precipitation events. Usable materials include rock salt or sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, urea and calcium magnesium acetate. Magnesium chloride and calcium chloride are more expensive than sodium chloride but can prevent ice bonding with pavement and melt ice at much lower temperatures.

Heating Cables

• Electric heating cables or mats can be installed in driveways or walkways at the time of construction or can be installed in existing pavement. Cut grooves into the driveway with a masonry saw, place the gable in the grooves and seal with a suitable waterproof caulking or sealant. Follow manufacturer instructions for specific installation and operation techniques.

Plastic Sheeting

• One method useful for preventing ice formation without using chemicals or electricity is to cover a portion of the driveway or walkway with a sheet made of heavy plastic or another suitable waterproof material. This technique is best for small areas like steps or short walkways. Using a waterproof sheet as a pre-treatment for ice may not be wise or feasible if a heavy snowfall or wintry mix is predicted.