It’s only November, and we’ve already experienced snowfall and record low temperatures in Maryland. With that said, we could predict a harsh, snowy winter this year. To prepare for a snowstorm, we tend to gather the essentials: milk, toilet paper, bread, and road salt. When our driveways and roads are shoveled and plowed, usually salt is put down to help melt the icy patches. However, have you ever considered using sand instead of de-icing with salt? Though salt has been known to save lives and prevent traffic crashes, it has its dangers.

Road salt can thoroughly damage sidewalks and cause the cement to crack, making the area a hazard even after the ice is melted. In addition, salt poses a huge environmental risk to wildlife as well as humans. Because road salt is unrefined, unlike table salt, it contains minerals and chemicals that assist with the de-icing process. When the salt and chemicals eventually runoff into streams and lakes, it creates an unbalanced salt ratio and decreases oxygen levels. This, in turn, has harmful effects on wild animals and plants living in the surrounding areas.

Salt can also be damaging to you as well as your pets. Excessive salt can enter our source for drinking water. In some cases, city water supplies have had to be shut down because of the amount of salt present. Drinking the water contaminated with these harmful chemicals can have very negative effects on your health. In addition to your health, salt can also affect the health of your pets. The large pieces of rock salt could become wedged between paws, or harm their digestion systems if accidentally consumed.

To avoid these problems, consider using sand instead of salt. While sand doesn’t exactly melt the ice, it still provides traction for drivers, walkers, and pets. Take a look at some of the other benefits of using sand instead of salt:

• It’s a cheaper alternative to salt, which means it can be used more frequently and in more locations
• It contains no harmful added chemicals
• It’s composed of smaller grains, which will making walking easier for pets

The only real downfall of sand is that it doesn’t disintegrate, and can buildup on roads and in streams. However, with no harsh chemicals, sand doesn’t pose a huge risk for humans or the environment.

Before you pick up a bag of road salt to prepare for the winter storm, pick up two bags of sand instead. With cheaper materials, you’ll be able to get more for your money, and make your walkway safer for yourself and your family. To find out how else you can protect your pavement this winter season, contact PTG Enterprises.

PTG Enterprises is a commercial concrete contractor in the Baltimore area. Our crews are extremely familiar with all types of concrete paving, so you know the job will look professional and last for years to come. Give us a call and let us help protect your pavement from Mother Nature.

If you have any questions about de-icing with sand, please contact PTG Enterprises today by calling 410-636-8777, or click here today! You can also check us out on Facebook and Twitter.