Maintenance Guides / Lawn & Outdoor

Apply ice melt to walkways

Difficulty: easyTime: 15 minsEst. Cost: $10 - $25

Why it matters

Slip-and-fall accidents are a massive liability for homeowners. Treating surfaces promptly prevents ice from bonding to the concrete, making shoveling easier and walking safer.

Stop forgetting to do this.

Hearth generates a personalized maintenance schedule so you never miss another apply ice melt to walkways.

Get the App

How to do it

  • 1

    Stock up before the first freeze; ice melt sells out during storms.

  • 2

    Choose calcium chloride or magnesium chloride for cold weather (work below 0°F); rock salt only works to ~15°F and damages concrete.

  • 3

    Avoid rock salt on concrete less than 1 year old — it spalls the surface.

  • 4

    Apply a light, even layer before precipitation starts when possible.

  • 5

    Use a pet-safe formula if you have dogs or live near landscaping (regular salt burns paws and kills plants).

  • 6

    Reapply as needed; sweep up residue once safe.