Although asphalt maintenance may not be at the top of your to-do list this holiday season in the Twin Cities, make sure to consider it as the temperature drops. Asphalt maintenance is important this time of year, especially as you start investing in deicing techniques for driveways, parking lots, and walkways.
Before picking up a bag of deicing salt or chemicals, take a moment to do your research. Here are answers to a few common questions about deicing:
- Does rock salt work best for deicing asphalt?
Most folks reach for the rock salt immediately once the weather changes, but it’s important to know there are other options available. Support asphalt maintenance by purchasing smarter this season and moving away from the rock salt. This substance can cause pitting in your asphalt and is dangerous for animals in your neighborhood.
- Which chemicals work best for deicing asphalt surfaces?
Professionals most often recommend using calcium magnesium acetate or propylene glycol to deice asphalt surfaces. They are less dangerous to the natural world and less likely to damage asphalt. When using any type of chemical, however, make sure to practice safety. Use gloves to distribute, or make sure to immediately wash your hands afterward!
- Are kitty litter or sand viable options for deicing asphalt?
These are great alternatives for making surfaces less slippery and safer, but not for deicing! As part of your asphalt maintenance, kitty litter or sand work well as a non-toxic method for creating traction in parking lots or on driveways and walkways. However, these are not viable options for deicing your asphalt.
As part of your asphalt maintenance this holiday season, use deicing materials carefully in the Twin Cities. Do your research, and make sure you’re not purchasing dangerous materials that can cause damage to your asphalt or neighborhood.
Do you have additional questions about asphalt maintenance? Contact the team at Gopher State Sealcoat today!
