With the temperatures set to plummet across the UK this week, snow and ice could lead many Brits to reach for grit salt in an effort to keep driveways and pathways safe. However, experts are sounding the alarm about the long-term harm grit and harsh chemicals can cause to gardens, driveways and even the environment.
Trevor Knight, a technical garden and driveway specialist at Marshalls Plc, warns that while grit salt may seem like a quick fix for icy surfaces, it could spell disaster for your garden’s greenery and surrounding landscapes. “Salt and harsh chemicals can harm the environment and any grass near or surrounding your driveway due to runoff,” Knight explains. “This can cause grass and leaves to brown or even die.”.
Grit is traditionally used on ice to improve traction allowing us to walk and drive safely in icy conditions. When combined with salt it also helps ice to melt by lowering its freezing point. READ MORE: Unusual 12p solution to keep your car running in cold weather.
"Many de-icing chemicals contain ammonium nitrates and sulphates, which can contribute to paving deterioration," Knight continued. The expert suggests that if you need to clear ice from your driveway and surrounding areas, using a natural de-icer such as salt is an efficient and more eco-friendly way to do so.
The expert advice is particularly pertinent as Ladbrokes have slashed odds on this month being the coldest January on record. Temperatures have already fallen to almost -8C since New Year’s Day. Cal Gildart of Ladbrokes said: "The Arctic blast hasn't just made the mercury plummet, with the odds following suit, suggesting that 2025 is set to kick off with the coldest-ever January.".
