(photo: Minnesota Public Radio)The recent snowfall and freezing temperatures are forcing us to think about the best methods for melting ice on sidewalks and driveways, but do deicing chemicals damage concrete? Here are some tips to keep in mind this winter:
- Damage to concrete from ice melt chemicals is not caused by the actual chemicals, but by creating more freeze thaw cycles. Properly installed concrete will resist pitting, flaking, etc. It’s also important to shovel slush on walkways before it refreezes.
- We recommend using of Magnesium Chloride. It works until -20 degrees, reducing the number of freeze/thaw cycles. It also does the least amount of damage to plants.
- You can put mag chloride on pavers (most of the pavers Magnolia installs are made from concrete). You run the same risk of pitting as on regular concrete, so remember to use the chemical at the recommended quantities and avoid using if there are plants around the area.
- Keep in mind that using chemicals on pavers can cause an efflorescence (white haze), which you
will notice in the spring. We don’t recommend using chemicals on pavers, but if you do, be sure to seal them.
- Sanding is another good choice. While it won’t remove the ice, but will provide more traction. Many municipalities offer free sand for residents. Check your city’s web site for details.
Protect Your Plants
When putting deicing salt on walkways and driveways, keep in mind that they can injure plants. To prevent salt damage, use salt-tolerant species near deicing areas. Burlap barriers can also provide protection to some plants at risk of being sprayed by salt by passing cars. Here are some salt-tolerant plants.
Perennials:
Karl Foerster Grass
Little Bluestem
Silver Mound Artemisia
Blue Fescue
Hosta
Stella d’Oro Daylily
Palace Purple Coral Bells
Autumn Joy Sedum
Yucca
Trees/Shrubs:
Norway Maple
Amur Maple
Honeylocust
Colorado Spruce
Mugo Pine
Scotch Pine
Lilac
Potentilla
Alpine Currant
Bur Oak
Red Oak
Here are some good links for more information on deicing and winter maintenance:
http://www.ehow.com/how_6666764_prevent-icing-over-brick-patio.html
http://www.grounds-mag.com/mag/grounds_maintenance_deicersand_degrees_theyll/
http://www.mainscape.com/templateSnow.cfm?id=26&article_ID=25
http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/naturalresources/DD1413.html
