Rock Salt Alternatives
Rock salt, a form of sodium chloride, is often used on roads, walkways and driveways to manage ice during the winter months. Although cheap and effective, rock salt can be damaging to the environment and harmful to pets, so it is important to learn about the alternative options available.
Considerations
Take into account the size of the area where you need to eliminate ice, as well as your average winter temperature and climate. Take time to read labels to determine which product will best suit your needs. A gravel walkway at home may require a different product than the concrete steps of City Hall.
Effects
Some products prevent ice and need to be spread before ice can form. Others melt ice, but at different rates according to their ingredients. It is good to keep in mind that some products will not work below a certain temperature.
Alternatives: Pet-Friendly
There are several pet-friendly ice melting products on the market that contain no salt, such as Safe Paws, Petastic Pet Friendly Ice Melt and Dr. Dog's Safe Pet Ice Melter. These can be found online or at your veterinarian's office or local pet supply store. It is a good idea to compare these products to find the one most effective for your situation.
Alternatives: Environmentally Friendly
Calcium magnesium acetate is a salt-free and biodegradable rock salt alternative. Although more expensive and ineffective below minus 4 degrees Celsius (25 degrees Fahrenheit), it is a more environmentally friendly solution to ice than rock salt. Calcium chloride, another alternative, is less damaging than rock salt but is corrosive to metals and harmful to pet paws. Urea, safer to use around vegetation, is somewhat effective at melting snow and providing traction. Sand or gravel, while not able to melt ice, can provide traction for better footing.
Prevention/Solution
The first step in preventing ice buildup is to keep your walkways shoveled, continually checking for and breaking up any ice that forms. If you have a small, manageable area, this is the most practical, inexpensive and least toxic solution to preventing slips and falls. A little elbow grease can go a long way!
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