When winter in Washington, D.C., brings a mix of snow, ice, and slush, homeowners of historic brick houses are responsible for clearing the sidewalk in front of their homes as well as their property’s walkways and steps. Since most of these surfaces are masonry or brick, special care is needed to prevent damage to the old pathways. Choosing the correct methods and materials will protect your property while ensuring your family’s safety as well as that of your neighbors, guests, and passersby.
Shovel as Soon as Possible
Shoveling your brick walkways, steps and sidewalks is perfectly safe. The key is to shovel early and often. Fresh snow is usually lighter and has not had a chance to pack down or turn to ice. This reduces the likelihood of accidentally scraping or chipping the brick. If the snowfall is light enough, sometimes a broom is all you will need to dust it away. If it is heavier, a sturdy plastic shovel is gentler on the masonry or brick than a metal one. Avoid using your shovel to chip away at the snow close to the ground, as this can accidentally gouge the brick or masonry. While this method requires effort, it helps avoid long-term damage and keeps your property in top shape.
Sand Is a Safe Solution for Icy Weather
Despite your best efforts, getting to the snow quickly is not always possible, and it can accumulate. As it compacts, it can leave a slippery layer of ice on your historic brick home’s pathways, sidewalks, and front steps. Before reaching for chemical de-icers, consider using clean sand to tackle the problem. Clean sand is free of unwanted debris and provides excellent traction on icy surfaces without damaging what’s beneath. It is environmentally friendly, pet-safe and doesn’t degrade brick or masonry. When springtime returns, sand can be swept up, screened for unwanted materials, and reused. This makes it an eco-friendly and sustainable option to maintain your property. 
Using De-Icers Safely on Brick Walkways, Steps, and Sidewalks
Sometimes winter doesn’t cooperate with what’s best for your brick, and in the interest of safety, you may want to use a chemical de-icer. There are three main types of de-icing salts and opting for the gentlest types whenever possible is essential.
Of the three types of de-icing salts, magnesium chloride is the safer choice when temperatures plummet. It is less likely to damage concrete and plants than other salts. If temperatures are milder, potassium chloride is also gentler on masonry, brick and vegetation than traditional rock salt. Calcium chloride and sodium chloride are traditional rock salts and are incredibly harsh. They can cause significant damage to sidewalks, walkways and steps. You should also avoid products with ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate mixed in.
Sticking with the milder magnesium chloride can help protect your brick, but it is still important to use it properly. First, remove as much snow and ice as possible, then focus your de-icer on high-traffic areas. Read the instructions, use only as much as recommended, and mix it with sand so there is more traction and fewer chemicals. In the spring, sweep the sidewalks, walkways and front steps, and then rinse them with plenty of water.
Strategically keeping your property ice-free with a combination of shoveling, sanding, and safe methods of de-icing will ensure your historic brick and masonry will remain safe and beautiful for years to come.
Contact Renaissance Development, tuckpointing experts in D.C., to arrange a consultation for restoration and repair of brick both outside and inside your historic brick home.
