Every wonder which is better to use on your driveway in the winter? Lets look at the pros and cons.

Rock salt melts ice. Depending on the type of salt, it may only work up to -10. Any colder and if may not work. Salt will melt the ice but if its applied and there is a substantial amount of ice, you may need more than one application. When it does melt and the snow and ice melt, it may have some negative affects. The salt may make it too salty for vegetation to grow in the spring.

Sand on the other hand, is an abrasive material, is applied to icy roads to provide traction. It can capably create traction on ice at any temperature, but sand is only effective if it is on the surface of the ice. If it gets buried or it snows again it will need to be re-applied.

Excessive amounts of sand can collect into drains or can be left on surfaces, such as concrete, so cleanup of sand in the spring may also be a concern. We recommend a coarse sand when applied to walk ways and driveways as it can easily be swept of walk ways and will provide a better grip then a fine sand.

Of course, the best way to preventing ice buildup is to keep the area clear of snow but shoveling or plowing often so the ice does not build up.