TABLE OF CONTENTS
After clearing snow from your driveway or parking lot, ice buildup can quickly become a major hazard. Preventing ice formation is essential for maintaining safe walkways, reducing slip-and-fall accidents, and keeping surfaces clear. Here are effective strategies to prevent ice buildup after snow removal, ensuring a safer environment for your property.
Remove Snow Thoroughly
One of the most important steps in preventing ice buildup is to ensure that all snow is completely removed. Even a small layer of snow can melt and refreeze, forming a dangerous sheet of ice.
Pay Attention to High-Traffic Areas
Focus on areas that receive the most foot or vehicle traffic, as these places are most prone to compacted snow, which can turn into ice. Driveways, walkways, and entrances should be prioritized during snow removal.
Use Proper Equipment
Whether you're using a snowplow or a shovel, make sure the equipment is designed for thorough snow removal. Using a high-quality snow blower or a push shovel can help clear snow right down to the surface, reducing the chance of ice forming.
Apply Ice Melt Products
After snow has been cleared, applying ice melt products can help prevent ice from forming. Ice melt lowers the freezing point of water, preventing snow and moisture from refreezing into ice.
Choose the Right Ice Melt
There are various types of ice melt products available, such as calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and sodium chloride. Each has its pros and cons, but calcium chloride tends to work faster and at lower temperatures, making it ideal for preventing ice buildup after snow removal.
How to Apply Ice Melt Effectively
For the best results, evenly spread the ice melt across the surface immediately after snow removal. Don’t over-apply, as excessive ice melt can be harmful to nearby vegetation and surfaces. Using a spreader can help ensure an even application, maximizing the product’s effectiveness.
Create Proper Drainage
Water that melts from snow can pool and refreeze, forming ice patches. Ensuring proper drainage after snow removal is key to preventing ice buildup.
Check for Drainage Issues
Inspect your property for areas where water tends to accumulate. Low spots in driveways, walkways, or parking lots are common culprits. If water has nowhere to go, it can freeze overnight, forming hazardous ice.
Direct Water Away from Walkways
You can prevent ice buildup by redirecting water away from walkways and driveways. Consider installing gutters, downspouts, or other drainage solutions that channel water away from areas where ice is most likely to form.
Sand and Gravel for Traction
While sand and gravel won’t prevent ice formation, they provide traction on icy surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
When to Use Sand or Gravel
After applying ice melt, or if you’re dealing with a particularly icy area, sand or gravel can be spread over the surface to increase traction. This is especially helpful for walkways and driveways that see a lot of foot or vehicle traffic.
Reapply as Needed
Sand or gravel may need to be reapplied frequently, particularly in high-traffic areas. Check the surface throughout the day to ensure that there’s enough material to maintain safe footing.
CJS Landscape: Your Ice Management Experts
Preventing ice buildup is a crucial part of winter property maintenance, but it can be challenging to manage on your own. CJS Landscape offers professional snow removal and ice management services that keep your property safe and accessible all winter long. With our thorough snow removal, expert use of ice melt, and focus on drainage solutions, you can trust us to prevent ice buildup effectively.
Don't let winter weather catch you off guard—contact CJS Landscape for reliable and efficient snow removal and ice prevention services.
