Winter weather can create slippery and dangerous conditions, making ice melt a vital tool for keeping your property safe. But to maximize its effectiveness, you need to use it correctly. Here are five essential tips to help you get the most out of your ice melt this winter.
Choose the Right Ice Melt for Your Needs
Types of ice melts: Sodium chloride (rock salt) is effective and economical but may not work well in extreme cold. Calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are more effective at lower temperatures, while potassium chloride is a more environmentally friendly option.
Surface considerations: Consider the type of surfaces you’ll be treating. Some ice melts can be harsh on concrete or pavers, so choose a product that’s gentle on your specific surfaces.
Apply Ice Melt Before Snowfall
Pre-treatment benefits: Applying ice melt before a storm can help prevent snow and ice from bonding to surfaces, making it easier to remove later. This proactive approach can save you time and effort during and after a storm.
Use the Right Amount
Avoid overuse: Applying too much ice melt not only wastes the product but can also harm your plants and the environment. Follow the recommended application rates on the product label for best results.
Spread evenly: Use a spreader or shovel to distribute the ice melt evenly across the surface. This ensures consistent coverage and improves effectiveness.
Apply at the Right Time
Timing matters: For best results, apply ice melt as soon as snow begins to fall or immediately after a storm. Reapply as needed, especially if ice continues to build up or if melting slows down.
Safety First
Protective gear: Wear gloves and boots to protect your hands and feet from direct contact with ice melt, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Clean up: After the snow and ice have melted, sweep up any leftover ice melt to prevent residue from damaging your surfaces or plants.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your ice melt works effectively and safely. Keep your walkways clear and your property safe this winter with the right application techniques and product choices.
Get In Touch:
Contact us about your project ideas and our team will be in touch with you within 24 hours! We are in the business for over 5+ years and Buffalo’s Top Rated.
RDK Landscaping – For more inspiration, visit our site.
Experts in tree removal, stump demolition, stump removal, tree trimming, tree mulching, tree pruning and emergency tree removal in Buffalo, NY!
Read our Reviews!!
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!