3 Ways to Remove Ice From Your Driveway

An icy driveway can be dangerous. It can be the cause of slips, falls, and injuries. Keep your driveway de-iced and regularly maintained to prevent these accidents from occurring. Here are the best ways to remove the ice from your home’s walkways this winter.

1. Rock Salt

The most well-known way to remove ice from walkways is by spreading rock salt. Shovel away the snow on top of the ice, and then evenly spread the salt over the iced driveway. To speed up the melting process, fill a spray bottle with warm water and spray the salted area. This will activate the salt, allowing it to melt the ice quicker. Once the ice has softened, it can be removed with a snow shovel.

It is important to note that rock salt contains chemicals that can be harmful to plants and animals. Do not use salt around grassy areas, and keep an eye on pets to ensure they are not ingesting any of the salt.

2. Rubbing Alcohol

Fill a quart or half-gallon sized spray bottle with 70% isopropyl alcohol. If you are de-icing a large space, you can dilute the alcohol with water. After removing the snow from on top of the iced surface, spray the ice with alcohol as you walk back and fourth. Keep refilling the bottle until you have sprayed the entire area. After about 15-30 minutes, the ice will have melted enough to be removed easily with a snow shovel.

3. Vinegar

If you have a small space to de-ice, water and vinegar may be a good option. In a watering can, combine 50% warm water and 50% vinegar. After removing the snow, pour it over the iced area and let it sit. After a few minutes you should be able to remove it with a shovel. Not only is this a convenient option if you do not have rock salt or rubbing alcohol available in your home, but it is also the most eco-friendly option.

Remember to always use caution when removing ice from your home. Use shoes with traction when removing the snow and ice to prevent falls.