5 Concrete-Safe Deicers: Protect Your Driveway This Winter
Hey there, fellow winter warriors! Grab a cup of something warm, and let’s talk about a seasonal puzzle that’s close to my heart (and driveway). If you’re like me, with a freshly stamped concrete drive and a couple of pets who think they own the place, you’re probably on the hunt for an ice melt that’s deicer concrete safe and pet-friendly. I’ve been down this icy road before, and I’ve got some wisdom to share – along with a few products that have become my cold-weather allies. And yeah, we need to hash out why those standard salt and chloride melts might not be the friendliest choice for your concrete haven.
Why I Gave Salt And Chloride Melts The Boot
Alright, so salt and chloride-based ice melts are like those flashy sneakers that promise comfort but leave you with blisters. They do the job, sure, but they can be rough on your new concrete. I’m talking cracks, damage – the works. Plus, my pup, Rocky, is no fan of the stuff; it’s tough on his paws and not too kind to the lawn either. And let’s not even start on the slushy, slippery aftermath.
1. Safe Paw: My Concrete’s New Bestie
Safe Paw has been a game-changer for me. It’s like that reliable friend who always looks out for you. Completely salt-free and safe deicer concrete safe. It’s tough on ice but gentle on my concrete and greenery. A win-win in my book and an ice melt for stamped concrete.
While Safe Paw offers numerous advantages for melting ice, it’s important to note that we do not recommend using any ice melt, including Safe Paw, on concrete younger than 12 months. The first year is crucial for the concrete’s curing process, and it’s best to avoid any external agents during this time.
2. Green Gobbler: It’s Complicated
Green Gobbler and I have a love-hate relationship. It’s got its green points, but with magnesium chloride in the mix, I use it sparingly on my stamped concrete. It’s effective, don’t get me wrong, but I like to play it safe when it comes to preserving my driveway’s looks.
3. Cma: The Gentle Underdog
Calcium Magnesium Acetate, or CMA, doesn’t get the hype it deserves. It’s less abrasive than traditional salts and chlorides, making it a safer bet for your concrete but if too much is applied can definitely damage your driveway, especially if it’s stamped or decorative. It’s a bit slower to act, having a tendency to toxify the environment definitely not a good deal for our pets and children and definitely not the environment.
Get ready for winter with Walk On Ice instant traction on snow and ice
4. Beet Juice Blends: My Quirky Go-To
Now, beet juice isn’t a magical potion. For starters, it’s not as effective when used solo – it needs to be in cahoots with some salt. Also, sourcing enough beet juice to cover your driveway might be a challenge unless you’re planning on raiding the local salad bar.
5. Walk On Ice: My Secret Weapon
For those days when the ice is stubborn, and I need a quick, foolproof solution, I turn to ‘Walk On Ice.’ It’s not a melter but a traction agent. It works instantly and is safe for my pets, my concrete, and the environment. It’s like having an ace up my sleeve.
Wrapping It Up: Wisdom For A Slip-Free Winter
So there you have it – my top deicer concrete safe picks for keeping your driveway safe without compromising on pet and concrete safety. From Safe Paw to Walk On Ice, each option has its own charm. Remember, the right choice can make your winter a lot less daunting. Stay safe, keep warm, and here’s to a winter with less slip and more grip!
Other Ice Melt Products
Safe Paw
The Original and #1 Selling Pet and Child Safe Ice Melt for over 20 years. Guaranteed environmentally safe – will not harm waterways and sensitive wetlands. All products are made in the USA.
Safe Thaw
Imagine an ice melt you can put down and never worry about. It won’t harm pets, kids, and your property. That’s Safe Thaw. Unlike anything else on the market, Safe Thaw can change how winter affects our planet.
