Like it or not, winter is nearly here. The air is crisp, the temperatures are dropping and it’s getting dark earlier and earlier in the day. Soon enough, the Twin Cities area will be dealing with regular snowfall. Here are a few tips for proper snow removal from your concrete driveway or walkway from us here at Wohlwend Concrete.
Before the snow hits, take the time to mark off where your driveway or walkway ends and your yard or flower beds begin. This will protect your garden and lawn from accidentally getting damaged when you shovel or plow the concrete. Also, be sure to mark off where your propane tank or fire hydrant is (if you have one near your home or driveway/walkway).
Using calcium chloride instead of rock salt to remove ice from your concrete driveway or walkway can save your flower beds or lawn from being damaged or destroyed. Although calcium chloride can be expensive, a little bit goes a long way, so you can use it sparingly and still get the same results as you would with rock salt. Of course, you can also go the cheaper route and use kitty litter or builders’ sand and get nearly the same result – the ice won’t be melted but it will skid-proof the surface and help with traction. Just be sure to take your shoes off before you go into the house, as these materials are easily tracked into your home! But don’t use any products that contain ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulfate: these products will break down concrete and other masonry materials.
And, of course, the usual advice also applies: get a good snow shovel and use some elbow grease to get the snow off of your driveway or walkway. This will take care of most of the problem, but de-icing with calcium chloride or rock salt will take care of the worst of the problem and will ensure these surfaces are safe to walk and drive on.
Wohlwend Concrete is here to help with any masonry and concrete needs you may have this winter and any other season of the year. Give us a call at (651) 426-2610 or request a free quote.