The winter season can be hard on your paved surfaces. The ice that forms on the surface of your driveway or sidewalk can pose a risk not only to your safety but also to the structural integrity of your paving as well.

Homeowners often use salt to break up ice. While salt is an effective tool, it has the potential to wreak havoc on your paved surfaces by creating pitting that leads to cracking. Use a safer alternative to keep both you and your paving in good condition this winter.

1. Start With a Shovel

One easy way to deal with ice on your paved surfaces is to try and prevent the ice from forming in the first place. Shoveling can be a useful tool in helping to keep your paved surfaces clean and ice-free. That said, be sure that you shovel any surface before you walk on it. This will prevent the pressure of your footsteps from compacting the snow and contributing to the development of ice.

Invest in a snow shovel with a metal edge so that you can use your shovel to break up any ice that may have formed on your paved surfaces with ease.

2. Spread Some Kitty Litter

Kitty litter is the last thing most people think about when it comes to ice, but it can be an effective way of coping with ice on your paved surfaces during the winter months. For instance, it can provide a significant amount of traction when spread across an icy surface. However, you want to purchase a natural litter product that doesn't contain any chemicals, fragrances, or dyes. This will ensure that your paved surfaces are not exposed to anything that might cause damage over time.

Kitty litter will not create pitting in your paved surfaces like salt does, making it a safer alternative for keeping your driveway or sidewalk safe this winter.

3. Lay Out Heated Mats

Heated mats can be effective tools when it comes to safely controlling ice formation on your paved surfaces. You can invest in a heated mat that will cover the entirety of your driveway or sidewalk for maximum protection. Once the mat has been plugged into an electrical outlet, it will maintain a steady temperature that is just above the freezing point of water. The warmth prevents ice from forming on your paved surfaces and helps to melt any snow from these surfaces as well.

In the event that your paved surfaces do sustain damage during the winter, reach out to an experienced paving contractor for help. They can provide more information regarding residential paving.