How to Shovel and Salt Snow and Ice

Winter weather can turn your walkways into treacherous paths of snow and ice. But with some basic tools and a little muscle, you can clear these surfaces and make them safe and accessible again. In this video and guide, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shares valuable tips for clearing a concrete walkway after a snowstorm.

Essential Tools for Snow and Ice Removal

Having the right tools on hand can make snow and ice removal manageable. Here are some essential items:

Snow Shovel

A good snow shovel is your first line of defense against winter accumulation. Look for a shovel with a wide, curved blade for efficient snow removal. Some models feature ergonomic handles to reduce back strain during use.

Ice Chipper

This tool features a wide, heavy-duty metal blade on a wooden handle. It can be used to break up thick ice and hard-packed snow.

Broadcast Spreader

Cook uses a seed spreader or broadcast spreader to distribute salt or snow-melting minerals. This tool helps ensure proper coverage and prevents overuse of potentially harmful chemicals.

Snow Blower

A snow blower is an excellent investment if you face frequent or heavy snowfall. These machines can clear large areas quickly and with minimal physical effort, making them ideal for larger driveways and walkways. Choose a model appropriate for the typical snowfall in your area.

How to Shovel Snow and Ice Off a Walkway

Shoveling a walkway effectively requires both a strategic approach and the right techniques. The general strategy is to tackle the snow in smaller, manageable sections, reducing strain on your body while keeping the walkway clear. It’s important to focus on removing the snow in layers before it becomes too heavy, using the proper form to avoid injury, and ensuring that the walkway is fully cleared for safe passage.

Prepare Your Tools and Gear

Choose the right shovel for the job. An ergonomic shovel with a curved handle can reduce strain on your back, while a wide, lightweight shovel will allow you to move snow efficiently.

Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof boots with good traction, insulated gloves, and a hat or scarf to protect yourself from the cold.

Start in the Middle

Begin shoveling in the center of the walkway and work your way outward toward the edges. This method keeps the snow moving off the path efficiently and prevents buildup that could become difficult to move.

Once that’s done, though, don’t neglect to finish the job. Make sure to shovel the entire width of the walkway to ensure it is safe and accessible for walking. Narrow or partially cleared paths can still be hazardous, especially if ice forms later.

Push, Don’t Lift

Whenever possible, push the snow to the sides of the walkway rather than lifting it. This reduces the strain on your body and allows you to move snow faster. When lifting is necessary, bend your knees and use your legs to avoid injuring your back.

Work in Layers

If the snowfall is particularly heavy, shovel in layers. Remove the top layer of snow first, and then go back for the layer underneath. This method reduces the amount of weight you’re moving at once and makes the job easier.

Additional Tips

By following this strategy, you can efficiently clear your walkway while minimizing effort and reducing the risk of injury, ensuring a safe path for yourself and others throughout the winter months. Here are a few more tips.

• Shovel early and often: Don’t wait for the snow to accumulate. Shovel periodically during heavy snowfall to prevent the snow from becoming too heavy and difficult to manage.
• Tackle icy spots: Use an ice scraper to break up stubborn ice patches, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Pace yourself: Take breaks as needed, especially during heavy snowfall, to avoid overexertion.
• Use proper footwear: Wear waterproof boots with good traction to prevent slipping while you shovel.

Best Deicing Minerals

If shoveling isn’t doing the trick, you may want to add some deicing products to your walkway to help melt the snow or give passersby more traction. Certain salts and minerals can help clear snow and ice from a driveway by lowering the melting point or generating an exothermic reaction.

Many of these chemicals can hurt the environment and damage your home’s flooring if tracked inside, so it’s important to use these methods sparingly.

• Rock salt: Rock salt is the most common and affordable deicing product. It’s low-cost and effective down to about 15°F (-9°C). However, if overused, it can be harmful to plants and lawns.
• Calcium chloride: Calcium chloride is more effective at lower temperatures, working down to -20°F (-29°C). It creates an exothermic reaction, generating heat as it melts ice. However, it’s more expensive than rock salt and can still damage plants.
• Urea: Urea is a fertilizer that can also be used as a deicer. It’s less harmful to plants but is more expensive than other options. It’s effective to about 15°F (-9°C).
• Magnesium chloride: Magnesium chloride is another effective deicing material, performing well at temperatures as low as -13°F (-25°C). It’s less harmful to plants and concrete than sodium chloride but can be more costly.
• Sand: While sand doesn’t melt ice, it provides traction on slippery surfaces. It’s inexpensive and environmentally friendly but can be messy when tracked indoors.
• Blended products: Many commercial deicers are blends, combining materials like magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, and sodium chloride. These blends offer broader performance across different temperatures and conditions, but it’s important to read labels for environmental and surface impact.

How To Apply Deicing Products

Always shovel as much snow as possible before applying any deicer. When you’re ready, here’s how to do it.

1. Apply sparingly: Use only the amount recommended on the product label. Overuse can damage surfaces and harm the environment.
2. Spread evenly: Use a broadcast spreader for even application across the surface.
3. Allow time for it to work: Give the product time to start melting the ice before attempting to remove it.
4. Remove slush promptly: Once the ice starts to melt, scrape away the resulting slush to prevent refreezing.
5. Protect sensitive areas: Apply deicers away from gardens and grassy areas to minimize environmental impact.

Tips When Using Deicers

While deicing products are effective, they can have negative impacts on the environment and certain surfaces. Keep these tips in mind as you use them.

Environmental Impact

Many deicing products can harm plants and contaminate waterways if overused. Consider using more environmentally friendly options like sand or urea, especially near sensitive areas.

Surface Damage

Some deicers can damage concrete, especially if it’s less than a year old. Avoid applying deicing products on new concrete, and always follow manufacturer recommendations for older surfaces. Regularly inspect areas for signs of wear and tear to address potential issues early.

Pet Safety

Be mindful of pets when using deicing products. Some can irritate animals’ paws or be harmful if ingested. Consider using pet-safe alternatives in areas frequented by animals.