The winter months bring unpredictable weather, so most home and business owners keep rock salt on hand to keep their driveways and walkways safe. Unfortunately, that rock salt will damage brick and natural stone over time. Myers Brick, a brick and stone contractor in Independence, KY, explains the damage rock salt can do and recommends a better alternative.

Damage From Rock Salt

If you have a brick driveway or walkway, those bricks are held in place with mortar. Unfortunately, rock salt degrades that mortar over time, leaving you with loose bricks or pavers. These create hazards for you, your family, and any visitors, and could require replacing the entire walkway to make repairs.

On top of mortar degradation, rock salt is like bleach on your natural stone or brick. Repeated use of this common deicer will leave your walkway or driveway with little white spots everywhere. It may also damage the landscaping around your driveway or walkway. Salt accumulates in the soil, which can harm the roots, and it may discolor your winter vegetation as well.

Alternative to Rock Salt

The brick and stone contractors at Myers Brick recommend business and homeowners use a safer alternative to rock salt, such as calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). As a natural acid, it’s easier on your brick or natural stone driveways and walkways and better for the environment.

You can spread it as a solid or a liquid and use it liberally without fear of harming your natural stone, decking, and landscaping. It’s also safe for pets, unlike rock salt. Doing so will ensure your beautiful stone driveway and walkway continue to look stunning for years to come.

You spend a lot of time and money installing and maintaining beautiful brick, stone, and landscaping around your home. Protect your investment by choosing a safer deicing alternative like CMA. If you find yourself needing repairs following years of rock salt damage, contact the expert brick and stone contractors at Myers Brick. They specialize in custom stone installation, landscape walls, and brick sealing. Visit them online for more information, or call (859) 743-3850 to request a free estimate.