Rock Salt

• Applying rock salt is a very common method to melt ice on sidewalks. It's readily available at hardware stores. Rock salt is generally the least expensive option for melting ice and can be applied to the sidewalk alone or mixed with other solutions. Rock salt works better the warmer it is. In colder temperatures, usually below 15 degrees F, rock salt is not necessarily effective. Although rock salt is a common solution, it shouldn't be used any more than necessary simply because the residue from it washes down into storm drains, polluting waterways, and can cause damage to asphalt and vehicles.
  
  

Potassium Acetate

• This solution is used to make the sidewalks wet before applying other solutions. After the sidewalks are wet on top, other solutions are then added such as rock salt to help further melt the ice. This is a very expensive solution costing about eight times more than the cost of rock salt. The benefit is that it doesn't have to be applied nearly as often and the solution does not cause corrosion on metal bridges or asphalt. This solution works well even in extreme below-zero conditions.
  
  

Carbohydrates

• Another way to deice sidewalks is to use a solution made from corn or beets. The solution mixes well with rock salt. These corn- and beet-based solutions are relatively inexpensive compared to other solutions, are biodegradable and do not cause harm to structures or the environment. The downside is that the liquid can be thick and sometimes smelly. A popular version is called GEOMELT and is available for personal and business use.
  
  You may need to remove excess snow from the sidewalk prior to applying a solution to melt the ice. Excess snow is often heavier than it appears. Do not overexert yourself in removing excess snow. Take care in working in a way to prevent injury.
  
  Think about your budget and how much solution you may need prior to making your purchase. Whichever product you do finally decide to use on sidewalk, follow the directions on the package so that you are using the solution in safe, effective amounts. Less deicing solution will be needed the warmer the temperature or if rain is expected.