Winter can be a beautiful season, but it can also make everyday tasks like walking or driving a challenge. In places like Wisconsin, the freezing temperatures and heavy snow can quickly turn a simple driveway into a hazardous slip-and-slide. If you're worried about your driveway becoming unsafe this winter, you're not alone. But don’t worry—by following a few simple steps, you can keep your driveway safe for yourself, your family, and visitors.
Why Do Driveways Become Slippery?
Ice on the driveway is more than just an inconvenience—it can be dangerous. There are a few key reasons why driveways become slippery during the winter. The most common cause is ice formation. Water from melting snow or rain freezes when temperatures drop, turning the surface into a slick sheet of ice. As snow accumulates over time, it compresses and turns into ice, making the surface even more dangerous. The constant cycles of melting and refreezing also worsen the problem, creating even more slick spots that are hard to spot until it’s too late.
Safe Ways to Manage Snow and Ice
Taking action before ice and snow start to cause problems can save you a lot of trouble later. Here are some simple but effective ways to manage snow and ice on your driveway:
Shoveling and Regular Maintenance
One of the easiest ways to keep your driveway safe is by shoveling snow regularly. It's best to shovel snow as soon as possible, especially before it turns into ice. If you keep up with clearing the snow as it falls, you’ll have less work later and less chance of icy buildup. If you wait too long, the snow will become compacted, making it harder to remove and more likely to freeze.
Choose Pet- and Concrete-Safe Ice Melt
While traditional rock salt can be effective at melting ice, it can also damage your concrete over time and harm pets. Instead, opt for chloride-free, eco-friendly ice melts like Safe Paw. These products are not only safer for your driveway, but they’re also safer for your furry friends who like to spend time outdoors. When you do use ice melt, be sure to apply it early, before the snow has a chance to stick to the ground.
Increase Traction
Sometimes, no matter how much you shovel or salt, ice just won’t budge. In these cases, adding traction can make all the difference. Materials like sand, kitty litter, or gravel can be spread over icy spots to create more friction. These materials won’t melt the ice, but they do give your tires and shoes something to grip onto, reducing the risk of slipping.
Seal Driveway Cracks
Before the snow and ice come, it’s a good idea to inspect your driveway for cracks and other damage. Water from melting snow can seep into these cracks, then freeze and expand when the temperatures drop. This can cause further damage to your driveway and create even more slip hazards. Using a flexible sealant to fill in cracks before winter starts will help prevent this and keep your driveway in better shape for years to come.
Pre-Treat Surfaces
If you know a snowstorm is on the way, it’s a good idea to pre-treat your driveway with ice melt or even lay down tarps. Pre-treating surfaces before the snow begins to stick can make shoveling later much easier. The ice melt will keep the snow from bonding to the surface, so when the storm is over, you can clear it away more easily.
How To Prevent Slip Hazards on Icy Parking Lots and Walkways
Driveways aren’t the only outdoor areas that can become slippery during winter. Parking lots, walkways, and other pathways around your home or business can also pose significant slip risks. These areas often see more foot traffic and can quickly become treacherous.
Understanding the Risks
The risks in icy parking lots and walkways are similar to those on driveways. Cracked pavement, potholes, poor lighting, and uneven surfaces can increase the likelihood of slips and falls. When snow and ice start to accumulate, these problems become even more dangerous, creating hidden hazards that people may not see.
Winter Maintenance Tips
Just like with your driveway, clearing snow and ice from parking lots and walkways is essential for safety. Use shovels, snow blowers, or plows to remove snow quickly, and make sure you store the snow in designated areas away from foot traffic. Applying de-icing agents like salt or an eco-friendly alternative will also help prevent ice from forming and make it easier to clear away. Be sure to reapply de-icing agents as needed throughout the day, especially in high-traffic areas.
Regular Inspections
It’s also important to regularly inspect parking lots and walkways for potential hazards. Check for cracks, potholes, or areas where ice is likely to form. Address any issues promptly to prevent accidents. Regular inspections also give you a chance to maintain slip-resistant surfaces, like anti-slip mats or traction pads, which can significantly reduce the risk of slipping.
Enhanced Safety Measures
There are additional ways to keep parking lots and walkways safer in winter. Installing proper lighting can help people see where they’re walking, reducing the likelihood of accidents in poorly lit areas. Adding handrails along stairs and ramps gives people something to hold onto when conditions are icy. Encouraging people to wear shoes with good traction can also help them stay upright on slippery surfaces.
Working with Snow Removal Companies
If you don’t have the time or resources to keep up with snow and ice removal, hiring a snow removal service is a great option. A company like KG Landscape can handle the heavy lifting for you, ensuring that your parking lots and walkways stay safe throughout the winter. Professionals are trained to quickly and efficiently clear ice and snow, reducing the risks of slips and falls.
Bonus Tips for Safer Winter Maintenance
In addition to these essential steps, here are a few extra tips that can make winter maintenance even easier:
Prevent Ice Buildup: Sprinkle ice melt on your driveway or walkway ahead of time to keep ice from forming in the first place.
Optimize Shoveling: Spray your shovel with cooking spray or oil to prevent snow from sticking while you clear it away.
Tarp Solution: If you have areas that are particularly prone to snow buildup, try laying down tarps before the snow starts falling. You can easily remove the tarps when it’s time to clear the snow.
Conclusion
By taking a proactive approach to winter maintenance, you can ensure that your driveway, parking lot, and walkways stay safe throughout the season. Regular snow removal, proper salting, and the use of safe traction materials are all key to preventing slips and falls. And don’t forget to raise awareness about winter hazards with your family, employees, or visitors. Together, we can all work toward safer, slip-free winters.
Keeping your driveway safe for the winter may take some extra effort, but it’s well worth it to avoid accidents and maintain peace of mind. By staying on top of snow and ice removal and using the right products, you can enjoy a safer, less stressful winter season.
At Arcadia Property Services we offer trusted handyman services for landlords and property managers — from home repairs and upgrades to custom furniture and signage. Follow us on social media for maintenance tips and updates, and don't forget to leave us a review if you've worked with us before!
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