Salting your driveway effectively involves applying the right amount of salt evenly before or soon after snow or ice accumulates to prevent hazardous conditions.
Here's a breakdown of how to properly salt a driveway:
1. Timing is Key:
- Ideally, salt before snow or ice forms. This preventative measure makes it easier to break the bond between the ice/snow and the pavement.
- If you can't pre-treat, salt as soon as possible after snow starts falling or ice begins to form.
2. Choose the Right Salt:
- Rock salt (sodium chloride) is the most common and affordable option. However, it's less effective at lower temperatures (below 20°F/-7°C).
- Calcium chloride is more effective at lower temperatures but can be more expensive and potentially damaging to concrete if used excessively.
- Magnesium chloride is another option that is less harmful to concrete than calcium chloride, but still effective at lower temperatures.
- Consider eco-friendly alternatives such as calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) or beet juice, which are less harmful to the environment and your property.
3. Application Techniques:
- Even Distribution: The goal is to spread a thin, even layer of salt. Avoid clumping, as this wastes salt and can damage the driveway.
- Methods:
- By Hand: Use a gloved hand or a small scoop to sprinkle the salt evenly.
- Spreader: A salt spreader (handheld or wheeled) provides the most consistent distribution.
- Shovel: A shovel can be used, but be careful not to overload it, and make sure to spread the salt evenly as you toss it.
- Quantity: Use only the amount of salt needed. A general rule of thumb is about 1/2 cup of salt per square yard of driveway. More is not always better.
- Focus on Problem Areas: Pay special attention to areas where ice tends to form, such as shaded spots or areas with poor drainage.
4. Safety Precautions:
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from the salt.
- Protect your eyes from splashing salt.
- Keep children and pets away from freshly salted areas, as the salt can be harmful if ingested.
- Be mindful of plants and grass near the driveway. Excessive salt can damage vegetation.
- Consider the environment - use the minimal amount of salt necessary to achieve the desired result and consider eco-friendly alternatives.
5. Post-Salting:
- Monitor the Driveway: Check the driveway periodically and reapply salt as needed, especially if more snow or ice accumulates.
- Clear Melted Slush: Once the snow or ice melts, clear away any remaining slush to prevent refreezing.
