On Apr 8, 9:20*am, "Sanity" wrote:
I have been a homeowner, mostly up North for the past 50 some odd years. My
family is in the construction business so I know a little about building and
maintenance.
I have used Ice Melt on my driveways and steps for many, many years without
a problem. I know not to use rock salt as that would deteriorate the
concrete.
I live in North Carolina now. For the past five years I've purchased Ice
Melt from Lowe's and have not had one problem. This year they had a product
called "Ice Melt and Traction". *I asked the associate what the difference
was from what they used to carry. He told me it's the same with sand added
to give better traction. I read the label very carefully. It said "Do not
use on concrete that is less than 1 year old or not cured. Concrete should
be sealed". *Well, my concrete is 5 years old, cured and not only is it
sealed, I sealed it with product recommended by Lowe's.
As you can guess, the concrete flaked. *I went to the manager at Lowe's and
he instituted a claim. *The manufacturer denies any responsibility. *Lowe's
sent them a 'demand' letter stating that according to their agreement the
manufacturer must assume liability. I didn't hear for awhile so I called
Lowe's back. In a nasty tone I was told by their office that Lowe's does not
warranty any products they sell and is not responsible. All they'll do is
refund the money I paid for the bag of ice melt. I asked if this was their
policy on everything they sell and they said 'yes'. I will be taking them
and the manufacturer to court. Whether I win or not is not important at this
point. I just want everyone to know that when Lowe's tells you to email
, they really don't.

We had the same problem with that stuff at work. Problem is it damaged
just some section of the concrete, pieces that had been replaced at
one time, and not others. This would indicate that the quality of the
concrete, sealer, or workmanship was also involved. Lots of luck with
sorting it all out. I put out 10,10,10 fertilizer before it freezes
over. Melts the ice, doesnt hurt anything. If I dont get it out in
time I just put it over the ice for traction.

Jimmie