Green Tips Homemade & Natural Deicers for Your Sidewalk & Driveway – GWC Mag gwcmagFebruary 27, 2024053 views Winter brings picturesque scenes of snow-covered streets and sidewalks, but it also brings the hazard of icy pathways. Standard deicing methods often involve harsh chemicals that can harm the environment and infrastructure. However, with growing awareness of environmental issues, there’s an increasing demand for sustainable deicing options. In this guide, we’ll explore DIY, homemade and natural deicers as well as outsourced options if you’d like an easier approach, which you can use on your sidewalks and driveway. Understanding Sustainable Deicing vs Standard Methods Standard deicing methods for sidewalks and driveways often involve the use of chemical salts like sodium chloride (rock salt) or calcium chloride pellets. These salts lower the freezing point of water, melting ice and preventing further ice formation. However, they can be harmful to vegetation, pets, and the environment, as they leach into soil and waterways. In contrast, sustainable deicing methods focus on minimizing environmental impact. One method is using alternative deicers such as potassium acetate or magnesium chloride, which are less harmful to plants and pets. Another sustainable approach is mechanical removal of ice using shovels, snow blowers, or scrapers. This method avoids the use of chemicals altogether but requires manual labor and can be less effective in extreme conditions. Additionally, using materials like sand or gravel for traction instead of chemical deicers is a sustainable alternative that’s also do it yourself. These materials don’t melt ice but provide grip for walking and driving. Furthermore, incorporating permeable pavement designs allows for better drainage, reducing the need for deicing altogether. Overall, while traditional methods prioritize immediate effectiveness, sustainable methods aim to minimize environmental harm and promote long-term ecological balance. Homemade Deicers that Are Natural and Sustainable Whether you’re wondering how to deice your driveway without salt or if you’re looking to create a natural sidewalk deicer there are plenty of sustainable options outlined below. Salt Alternatives Sand – Sand is an excellent alternative to salt for providing traction on icy sidewalks. It doesn’t melt ice but helps to create a non-slip surface. Coffee grounds – Spreading used coffee grounds on icy surfaces can provide traction and help melt ice due to their dark color, which absorbs sunlight. Ashes – Wood ashes from fireplaces or wood-burning stoves can be spread on icy sidewalks or steps. They contain potassium salts that help melt ice. Beet juice – Beet juice contains a substance called betaine, which lowers the freezing point of water. Mixing 20% beet juice with 80% salt brine can create a natural deicing solution. Natural Deicer Solutions Vinegar solution – Mixing vinegar with water (in a ratio of 3:1) can create a natural deicer. Apply it to icy surfaces using a spray bottle for your car or a watering can for larger surfaces and give it a shake before using to mix it up. Rubbing alcohol solution – Mixing rubbing alcohol with water (in a ratio of 2:1) can also be effective for deicing. Use this natural deicer spray for your windshield or pour the solution on icy areas like your driveway. Remember to shake the bottle before each use. Physical Removal Shoveling – Regularly shoveling snow from sidewalks before it gets compacted and turns to ice is one of the most effective methods for preventing ice buildup. Ice breaker tools – Use ice breaker tools like ice chippers or ice picks to manually break up thick ice patches. Outsourced Sustainable Sidewalk Deicing Options Eco-Friendly Deicing Services Companies specializing in eco-friendly deicing – Some companies offer professional deicing services that utilize environmentally friendly methods and materials. These services often use organic deicers derived from plant-based compounds or byproducts. Community Programs Volunteer shoveling brigades – Community organizations or volunteer groups can organize to help shovel sidewalks in public areas, reducing the need for chemical deicers. Equipment Electric deicing equipment – Electric deicing equipment, such as heated mats or cables, can be installed on sidewalks and steps to prevent ice buildup. These systems use electricity to generate heat and melt ice without the need for chemicals. If you have a solar PV system, this can be a sustainable option. Tips for Effective and Sustainable Sidewalk and Driveway Deicing Monitor weather forecasts – Stay ahead of icy conditions by monitoring weather forecasts. Preemptive action, such as applying deicers before snowfall, can be more effective. Use appropriate tools – Use shovels, ice chippers, or brooms designed for sidewalk maintenance to avoid damaging surfaces. Consider long-term solutions – Invest in long-term solutions such as heated sidewalks or permeable pavement, which can reduce the need for deicing altogether.