Winter weather can be a challenge for businesses, especially when it comes to keeping sidewalks and roads clear of ice and snow. Deicing salt is a standard solution, but it can have negative environmental impacts, may not be the most cost-effective option, and can harm animals and humans. Luckily, there are several alternatives to traditional deicing salt.
Knowing more about these alternatives to deicing salt helps businesses make informed decisions about winter weather maintenance, whether they’re looking for an eco-friendly or cost-saving solution.
The Need for an Ice Melt Alternative
Ice melt helps businesses keep their walkways and parking lots clear. Without salt, customers may not be able to access your building, or worse, they may slip and fall. In some instances, owners may be held liable for any injuries on their property. Finally, some local and state laws mandate that businesses keep their property clear of snow and ice.
Without salt, none of this would be possible. However, salt has several problems of its own. Salt has several potential issues:
- A negative impact on the environment
- Potential corrosion of metal, concrete, and other materials
- Harmful effects on pets
- Expensive costs for areas impacted by prolonged winter weather
For those who need to avoid these issues, it’s essential to know how to melt ice without salt.
Alternatives to Salt for Ice
Sand
This alternative to salt for ice is quickly becoming popular, especially with cities. Sand has fewer harmful effects on our environment and is cheaper to supply than salt, but it still has some of the same issues.
Sand is still tough on your pet’s paws and is hard on floors when tracked inside. If your business is in a highly trafficked area or has delicate flooring, you may want to consider a different alternative to deicing salt.
Heated Mats
Electrically-heated mats are designed to melt snow and ice from sidewalks, entryways, and other outdoor areas. They are usually made of durable, weather-resistant materials and can be used in residential and commercial settings.
Heated mats are incredibly efficient and offer an exceptionally eco-friendly solution. Unfortunately, there are several drawbacks for some business owners:
- High upfront cost for the mats
- Limited coverage area for each mat
- Potential maintenance requirements
- The need for a constant power supply
Pet-Safe Ice Melt
While most ice melts contain salt, pet-safe ice melts usually utilize magnesium chloride. This ingredient is much safer than conventional rock salt and has several benefits:
- Less environmental impact
- Safer for pets
- Just as effective as traditional ice melt
Get Help From Land Concepts
If you want to keep your storefront clear while preserving your parking lot, walkways, and landscaping, contact Land Concepts. Our experts help businesses stay clean all winter long and can do the same for you.
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