How to Clear Ice and Packed Debris From Walks

The 19205 is a 6 in. push scraper made for floor coverings. Use it on bonded ice or packed debris only after you have identified the surface and its edges.

What you need

Model 19205Floor/Tile Scraper, 6” $75.41 each$51.28 each at 100 or more

collection point for released chips
barricades or signs for the route

Steps

Identify each surface in the path: concrete, pavers, stone, steps, nosings, joints and repairs. If the surface or its treatment is unknown, do not scrape it.
Mark cracks, spalled edges, loose pavers and lifted coatings before the ice hides them.
Confirm the layer is ordinary ice or packed debris, not an unknown spill or residue.
Check the weather, melt sources and refreeze. Trace where meltwater and chips will go.
Inspect the 19205 for a loose head or shield, a changed edge, a cracked handle or corrosion.
Isolate the route and set a collection point. Take a balanced stance on a standing area that is already clear.
Test a small, inconspicuous spot with light contact. Stop for scratching, coating lift or joint disturbance.
Start at an open edge with a two-hand grip. Push progressively, let the layer release, and move chips to the collection side.

Tips

Do not strike, pound, pry at a joint, jump on the handle or heat the ice. If the layer will not release, stop and reassess.
Clear a patch, pause, move the chips, then expose the next edge. Do not pile chips where they hide glaze or block access.
Removing the white layer does not prove the surface is walkable. Check for clear glaze at steps, nosings, landings and thresholds.
Recheck drip and melt sources while you work. Returning glaze closes that section again.

Watch out

The 19205 is built for push-scraping floor coverings. For exterior work, use a tool specified for that job.
Stop for loose pavers, crumbling nosings, or an unknown color, odor or sheen on the layer. Those are repair or identification holds.
Keep chips away from people, glass, doors, vehicles, drains and neighboring property. Guard the route until it is clear.

Questions about the right tool for your job? Email cs@hydestore.com or call 508-916-6442.