Simple household item could give drivers 'more traction' on icy mornings
DRIVERS "struggling" with black ice on frosty mornings could get some "much-needed traction" with a simple household item.
Duxback demonstrate how to use de-icer product
The simple solution will help “put fears at ease” and ensure drivers do not become stuck on the driveway this winter. Experts at car leasing firm Vehicle Contracts said sprinkling just some cat litter behind your vehicle can make a massive difference.
They said: “Driving on ice is one of motorists' biggest fears in winter.
“Keeping a bag of cat litter in the boot can put some of those fears at rest.
“If you find that your car is struggling to drive over black ice or a snowy patch, sprinkle a handful of cat litter on the road just behind your rear tyres to give your wheels some much-needed traction.”
The simple solution was also picked up by the American consumer website ‘HowStuffWorks’.
They warned road salt can often be “corrosive” in some circumstances, meaning it is not always the best solution.
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“However, salt can also be corrosive, and it doesn't work to melt ice if the temperature is lower than 15 degrees Fahrenheit (nine degrees Celsius).
They said using litter can help “provide traction” to tyres without the need to melt ice and risk vehicle damage.
They added: “Typically, 'road salt' is sodium chloride in the form of rock salt, which has been crushed and mixed with another compound to keep it from caking.
“When you spread the salt over ice, it dissolves in the water and lowers the freezing point.
“Spreading the salt onto ice and snow lowers the water's freezing point, melts it and keeps it from refreezing.
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“However, salt can also be corrosive, and it doesn't work to melt ice if the temperature is lower than 15 degrees Fahrenheit (nine degrees Celsius).
“Sand and kitty litter provide traction for your car's tires rather than melting anything.
“If you find yourself stuck, pour a thin layer of either material directly in the path of your [tyres] (after using a shovel to clear away any loose snow), then slowly apply the gas.”
Just days ago, Cass Heaphy, digital director at Paving Direct urged drivers to use sand on their driveways as temperatures drop.
He said sand has limited de-icing properties but would generally provide more grip.
He has warned drivers to not use other household items such as vinegar, brick acids or gritting salt.
This is because it has corrosive properties which may damage the concrete on your drive.
If drivers have time to clear their driveway by hand, this is preferable.
He added: “A snow shovel and/or a stiff yard broom and some elbow-grease should help to keep driveways clear.
“Preventing ice forming/build-up is the best strategy.
“By keeping the ice/snow off the pathways, you give daytime sunlight the best opportunity to thaw remnants and keep those walkways clear.”