Leading up to the winter months, many Indiana residents stock up on all the “essentials” for snow removal and de-icing sidewalks. Perhaps you too are among the proud people who have parked that snow blower in your garage or feel accomplished when looking at the bags of salt ready to spread at the first threat of snow or ice. Being prepared for winter weather is a great thing. However, our team at All Brothers Lawn Squad LLC wants to issue you a cautionary word about using rock salt this winter.
Rock Salt Damage
What many people don’t realize is that rock salt can actually damage your concrete sidewalks, patios, and driveways, especially if they were not installed properly. According to AsktheBuilder, “When you spread rock salt on your concrete to melt snow and ice, the salt dissolves the snow and makes a salt water mush. The melting action of the salt allows water to enter the concrete. If the temperature then drops and the water freezes, the growing ice crystals can blast apart the concrete.”
Sidewalk Solutions
After the snow falls, your best bet is to clear your sidewalks of as much snow as possible. Then, to make it less slick, you can spread sand on your sidewalk. As AsktheBuilder also points out, the sand won’t melt the snow, but it will help give you some traction to avoid slipping.
If the thought of clearing all that snow is too cumbersome, you can always decide to get a residential snow removal contract with our crew at All Brothers. Our customers get first priority when the white stuff shows up, and we will work hard to keep your driveway and sidewalks clear so you can stay safe and warm this winter.
To find out more about our snow removal services or to get a quote, contact All Brothers today at (765) 371-4186. We provide residential and commercial snow removal to residents in and around Portland, Muncie, Richmond, and the surrounding areas.
photo credit: public domain via pixabay