Here are the most popular ice melt alternatives with pros and cons for each.
Ice melt alternatives.
The juice from sugar beets lowers the melting point of ice and snow.
Every winter especially after a few good snow storms we tend to ask ourselves those life changing questions.
To melt existing snow and ice remove as much snow as possible and apply natural alternative ice melt at the rate of 1 to 4 lbs.
However when used for residential purposes it is hard on pet paws.
Sand many municipalities are using sand instead of or mixed with road salt and it does provide decent grip on ice.
Alfalfa meal is usually used as a fertilizer so it s 100 natural.
Common ice melt alternatives.
In recent years there has been more discussion about alternative ways to melt ice and the environmental impact of road salt during the winter months.
It s also completely safe for roads pets plants grass cars and concrete.
Let s dive into them.
Heated mats if you re really desperate or absolutely loaded heated mats will melt snow and ice and stop you slipping too.
For best results apply before a storm begins.
It s a little pricier than salt but these products will help to keep your walkways and driveways ice free.
If you want to attack that ice and keep your driveways clear here are some alternative options.
Another environmentally friendly way to melt snow and ice.
Harsh salts damage concrete and the environment.
The goal then is to find alternatives to rock salt for melting ice that aren t as in demand or will at least be available to buy when a storm comes.
Luckily with a little creativity you have options.
Every year cities across canada spread millions of tons of road salt on pavement to combat the slick icy winter conditions.
There seems to be more momentum than ever to find alternative solutions.
Per 500 square feet depending on amount of snow and ice present.
Here are some environmentally friendly ice melt alternatives that are kind to pets and to the environment.
Another bonus is finding something cheaper than rock salt too.
Eco friendly salt alternatives for melting ice and snow 01 10 2014 05 50 pm et updated mar 12 2014 salt does do a great job of melting ice and snow through the winter but its pretty bad news for you your pets the environment and your garden.
It s also grainy so you ll get some traction.
Fortunately there are several natural snow and ice melt alternatives you can use this winter instead.