Ice melt is a powerful tool for managing winter weather, but it can affect various surfaces differently. Knowing how different ice melts interact with surfaces can help you protect your property and ensure long-lasting results. Here’s what you need to know about how ice melt impacts different types of surfaces.
Concrete
Potential damage: Traditional ice melts, particularly those with high sodium content, can cause spalling (surface flaking) on concrete over time. The freeze-thaw cycles can exacerbate this damage.
Safer options: Look for ice melts specifically labeled as safe for concrete. Calcium chloride an magnesium chloride are often gentler on concrete compared to rock salt.
Asphalt
Impact on asphalt: Ice melts can soften and potentially damage asphalt surfaces, especially when applied in high concentrations. This can lead to cracking or surface degradation.
Protective measures: Use ice melts sparingly and choose products designed for use on asphalt to minimize damage.
Pavers and Stones
Surface sensitivity: Pavers and natural stone surfaces can be more sensitive to harsh chemicals.
Salt-based ice melts can cause discoloration or damage over time.
Gentle alternatives: Option for ice melts that are formulated to be safe for pavers and natural stone, or consider using sand for traction instead of chemical ice melts.
Wood Surfaces
Risk of damage: Ice melts can cause wood surfaces to deteriorate or become discolored. This is particularly concerning for wooden decks or outdoor furniture. Alternative solutions: Use ice melt sparingly on wood surfaces and consider applying a protective
sealant. For wooden walkways, consider using non-chemical alternatives like sand.
Grass and Plants
Potential harm: High concentrations of ice melt can damage grass and plants, leading to brown patches or die-off. The salt can affect soil quality and harm root systems.
Eco-friendly choices: Use ice melts that are less harmful to vegetation or apply them carefully to avoid direct contact with garden areas. You can also use sand or gravel to provide traction without affecting plants.
Different surfaces react uniquely to ice melt, and understanding these effects can help you make better choices for your property. Protect your surfaces and ensure effective ice management this winter by selecting the right ice melt for each surface type.
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Todd Wilhelm2024-10-01Had sod installed at my house in Amherst. Job done very quickly and well. Highly recommended. Will be using them again for spring 2025 project.
Md Mia2024-09-27RDK Tree Service removed a large maple by the power lines. It was definitely not a easy job. They did the job safely and did it rather quickly. I will definitely recommend them for your tree services.
Bike Lover2024-09-27Residing in Buffalo NY, and needed to remove a large tree in the backyard and front yard. The crew did a fantastic job with removing it along with the stump. We are so impressed. Thank you RDK!
selvachandran saravanan2024-09-25Did a job here in my rental property in Amherst of removing two 60-70ft pine trees with stump removal and prepped an area for parking. RDK Landscaping is the one you should go to with your tree and landscaping/hardscaping needs. They are just the best overall!!
jackary Rootis2024-09-24I highly recommend them. Great crew, Super easy to work with. They’re doing a great job out here in East Amherst. Not only did I use them, but my neighbor and their son did as well and we couldn’t be happier.
DIANE Abram: Toot-Toot Daycare2024-09-21I hope these pictures speak for itself. I had called couple of companies to my property in Northampton, Buffalo, but only RDK Landscaping had come out so quick to give a quote for a project we started and couldn’t finish. They were so quick, efficient and had completed the project in about 2 days. They did a beautiful job, and answered all my questions throughout the entire process. I am so very thrilled about the results and could not recommend more! They are doing wonderful projects.
Dan Duggan2024-09-19RDK Landscaping did an amazing job! We had 8 dead ash trees at our property in Clarence that needed to be taken down given their proximity to the house and garage, in addition to two trees close to the power lines. I was very impressed with how quickly Roy and his team responded, came out to the property and got the job done. I would highly recommend them!
Andres Martinez2024-09-14Everybody at RDK Landscaping was a pleasure to deal with, we had a big project with them to clear up some really overgrown gardens beds around our garage, they went above and beyond making our space useable again. Once the project was complete they made sure to clean everything up and even cleared some weeds we had on our driveway that we hadn’t even mention to them. Can’t recommend them enough and will be calling them first for any future landscaping projects.
Esther Guess2024-09-12The guys were quick and effective at getting all that ivy down. Great work!
