De-Icing Done Right: Protecting Your Surfaces While Staying Safe

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de-icing

Winter in Skagit and Whatcom counties often brings frost, icy mornings, and the occasional snowstorm. While keeping your walkways clear is essential for safety, improper de-icing techniques can harm your landscaping and hardscapes if not done properly. Here’s how to de-ice your property at home without damaging it. 

 

1. Choose Eco-Friendly De-Icing Techniques

Traditional rock salt can erode concrete, harm nearby plants, and pollute local waterways if not done professionally. Safer alternatives like magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate are gentler on hardscapes and the environment for DIY care. 

 

2. Apply Strategically 

Avoid overloading your walkways and driveways with de-icer. A light, even application is enough to prevent slipping without causing excess runoff into your landscaping. Focus on high-traffic areas like entrances and pathways. 

 

3. Protect Plants and Lawns 

Poor de-icing runoff can leach into the soil, harming nearby plants and grass. Use barriers like burlap to shield sensitive areas. For plants close to walkways, consider applying a layer of mulch for extra protection. 

 

4. Post-Storm Maintenance 

Once the ice has melted, sweep away remaining de-icer to prevent surface damage and keep your property looking polished. Consider re-sealing hardscapes in the spring to protect them from future winters. 

 

Pro Tip: Keep Backup Sand or Gravel 

For icy driveways and steep areas common in Island County, sand or fine gravel provides excellent traction without chemical exposure. 

Taking a mindful approach to de-icing keeps your family safe and your property beautiful. Contact ProScapes for advice on maintaining your hardscapes this winter!