Tips on Removing Snow and Ice from Patio

When winter is not over yet and snowfall continues, it is still hard to get things done around the patio. One major obstacle is the accumulation of snow and ice. It will take long for it to melt on its own so we have to put our muscles into good use and do something about it. Here are some useful and important tips not just to make it cheaper and easier to do, but also safer.

Prevent Accumulation
Removing snow is not easy if it already accumulated and compacted. If you have some time in a day, try to get rid of snow using shovel after every snowfall. Doing so will prevent too much accumulation of snow, thus, avoiding it from compacting into thick ice patches which are harder to remove. Besides, it is beneficial for you to get warmed up with snow shovelling workout.

Clearing Up
Clear up your patio and make sure it gets sunshine throughout the day. The sunlight will help melt and evaporate snow and ice so remove any debris and obstacles that get in the way. The best part is it is free.

Only Plastic Scraper
Use only plastic scraper on wood surface and on your patio furniture and fixtures. If you are removing ice from the wooden parts of your patio or your outdoor furniture, be sure you are not using scraping tools other than plastic-made to avoid chipping and damaging the finish.

Leave the Plants Alone
Don’t try to remove the snow and ice on plants. Leave them alone and let the snow and ice melt away naturally. You may inflict more damage than do good for them.

Salt is Not Good
Salt is an effective and inexpensive deicer but it is a detrimental solution for your patio. It leaves stain to your paver and other patio furniture and fixtures. Aside from that, there are worst effects that would come out in the long run.

The sodium chloride or salt would induce a chemical reaction such as rust and corrosion when it comes in contact with metals. It will damage the metallic components of your patio including your metal-made patio furniture, fixtures, and ornaments.

Salt is also bad for your patio or backyard plants. We already know that it kills plants and would prevent new ones from growing if it is present in the soil. So before attempting to sprinkle salt, remember that it can ruin your patio and backyard soil.