De-icing chemicals are a nightmare for your concrete. Let’s take a look at how these chemicals negatively affect your concrete and the environment.
Well, we’ve all been waiting for it (some more patiently than others) – a massive snowstorm is on its way to the Mid-Atlantic region! Blizzard Jonas is expected to produce considerable amounts of snow, heavy winds and reduced visibility. Snow like this can be hazardous. We are here to remind you once again – DO NOT USE DE-ICER! Let’s review why this winter maintenance tip is important.
De-Icer is Hazardous
Before you invest in a de-icing product, note that these chemicals can severely alter the health of your concrete and asphalt. Instead of just helping melt snow and ice, they can create cracks and other damages to the surface – worsening any problems that already were in need of maintenance. Sodium chloride (rock salt) is known to release the highest amounts of chloride when it dissolves, causing serious damage to your surfaces. These chemicals also pollute rivers, bays and lakes and can harm vegetation through soil.
Effective Alternatives
The best alternative to using a de-icer is to be prepared for upcoming winter weather by practicing routine winter maintenance. But, if you live in Maryland, you might have let that fall by the wayside in light of the uncharacteristically warm winter thus far. No worries. First, be sure to remove all snow and ice from your surfaces with a plastic shovel to prevent water from slipping into cracks and crevices and freezing – creating pressure that results in cracks. Snow blowers are also a safe and effective alternative to clearing snow from your property. If you still need a de-icer, find out with chloride or magnesium chloride – they are safer alternatives. You can mix sand or litter with the deicer to increase traction if need be.
PTG Enterprises: A Commercial Concrete Contractor in Baltimore
PTG Enterprises has been in the asphalt paving, concrete, and masonry business for more than a decade. We have seen it all before and we know the telltale warning signs of asphalt and pavement failure. And as a member of the Community Association Institute (CAI), National Facilities Management and Technology (NFMT), and Maryland Multi-Housing Association (MMHA) we are well-positioned to help you make the right financial decisions for your property or community association.
PTG stands out as an industry leader due to our methodology of pavement management planning: a systematic, long-term approach to managing and extending the life of your pavement. We will work with you to develop a comprehensive strategy to extend and maximize the lifespan of your asphalt and concrete surfaces.
If you have any questions about winter asphalt maintenance, please contact PTG Enterprises today by calling 410-636-8777, or click here today! You can also check us out on Facebook and Twitter.
Tags: blizzard, Concrete Maintenance, deicer, winter maintenance, winter pavement
