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De-Icing Flagstone Patios in Maryland

Sodium chloride - also known as rock salt - is not the best way to go about de-icing flagstone patios in Maryland. Why?

Rock salt is corrosive, and can damage many surfaces, including concrete. With flagstone patios in MD, not only will rock salt damage mortar joints, it will cause flagstone to flake off.

Instead of using rock salt, you should consider using calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). CMA is more costly than rock salt, but it’s worth it. CMA is made from limestone and vinegar, and is the safest de-icer (ice melter) to use on flagstone patios in Maryland. In addition to being safe for flagstone patios, CMA can also be used on asphalt driveways, brick walkways, etc., and won’t harm vegetation. CMA can be bought at your local hardware or home supply store.

After giving CMA some time to work, use a plastic - not metal - shovel, and gently remove as much melted ice as possible.

Adding Traction to Flagstone Patios in MD

After de-icing flagstone patios, add traction. Sprinkle sandbox sand - not mason’s sand - over the flagstones. Cheap kitty litter (the non-clumping kind) or alfalfa meal (a slow-acting fertilizer) are also good choices to add traction. Some homeowners swear by adding ashes from their fireplace, but that can leaves a mushy mess if the ashes aren’t completely broken down.

Snow Removal on Flagstone Patios in MD

Sweeping flagstone patios are the best method for keeping them snow-free. However, if you have to shovel, again, use a plastic shovel, and be gentle. Snow blowers can cause vibrations that loosen flagstone patios in Maryland.

Melting Snow and Ice Before It Sticks to Flagstone Patios in MD

Some homeowners choose to add a heating system under their new new flagstone patios in MD. When snow or ice is predicted, a switch is flipped, warming up the flagstones, and snow and ice will melts on contact.

For more information on flagstone patios in MD, please contact East Coast Landscape Design. The experienced professionals at East Coast Landscape Design work with homeowners to design dream flagstone patios that can be used year-round in Maryland.


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