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Green Home
Living Tip
It seems that every state has been
affected by lots of snow and ice this year. After
all the snow drifts, ice dams and slippery patches
we started to ask ourselves, what is the most
eco-friendly, yet budget-friendly way to fight
slick spots?
Certainly, commercially made "ice
melt" can do the job, but these often contain
chemicals that are harmful to plants, animals and
walkways. Its also a good idea to have some backup
ideas as retailers run out of or stop carrying
these important products this time of year. Here
are some alternative ideas to the traditional ice
melt products.
SALT
Salt, even water softener salt, can
work well. This will melt ice but can also harm
vegetation, so use with caution.
FERTILIZER
Any ammonium sulfate formula (or
formulas with urea, which are common granular-type
fertilizers), also makes a good deicer for
walkways and sidewalks. If the raw materials are
available, it can be mixed up as a true homemade
formula; however, it is much easier to purchase a
premixed bag of fertilizer. This can be sprinkled
or poured on icy surfaces and will melt the most
stubborn ice patches. When spring comes around,
it's even good for vegetation growth in, and
around, the area it has been used in.
LIQUID
BRINE
Liquid
salt brine is nothing more than salt water, and it
can be mixed up with equal parts of any available
salt, and hot water. This solution works best when
sprayed or poured onto concrete walkways BEFORE
snow or ice storms occur. The underlying liquid
may get covered with snow, but it will not allow
ice to form on the concrete, and will give good
and safe footing when you walk over it.
FOR TRACTION
ONLY
If good footing is the only
concern and you won't be tracking inot the house,
non-clumping cat litter, sand or cracked corn
are great options. The clay cat litter and
sand is non-toxic and will wash away with the
spring rains. Cracked corn will give great
traction and will be completely consumed by birds
and squirrels.
Remember to test each of these
solutions before using in larger areas. Winter is
a slipperly time of year. Be creative, be careful
and hopefully the warm weather return before we
know it!
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