Winters in the Chicago suburbs can turn your driveway into an ice rink. We wanted to share five of the most effective ways to de-ice your driveway and walkways. We will also share tips on how to prevent ice from accumulating in the first place.
Rock Salt:
This is the most common way to de-ice your driveway. We drop about five million tons of rock salt every year to prevent driveways, steps and sidewalks from becoming mini skating rinks. Benefit: it’s cheap and available everywhere. Downside: it contains cyanide and chloride, making it dangerous for pets and plants.
Heat Mats:
In-ground heat mats are a means of de-icing your driveway. These mats help reduce slips and falls at your home.
“Green” Products:
There are several de-icing products on the market that are advertised as all-natural or environmentally friendly, but even these can be corrosive, expensive or ineffective. Calcium magnesium acetate is a biodegradable, but it only de-ices when the air temperature is about 27°F or warmer.
Sand:
Sand or gravel are good for creating traction and making icy surfaces less dangerous to walk across. Sand can also create a goopy mess of your driveway and clog up storm drains during a thaw.
Shovel Regularly:
The most effective method – that is green and works 100% of the time – is to shovel. Shoveling snow as soon as the white stuff hits the ground, even if that involves venturing out in the middle of the storm. Doing this will help prevent snow from building up and turning into ice.
R.C. Keller & Company is your one-stop shop for all your insurance needs. We have been helping Chicagoans and residents of Illinois since 1910, with their home and auto insurance. If you have any questions or concerns, we are always here to help.