The Town of Pagosa Springs recently posted ‘New Concrete Sidewalks Winter Protocol’
This is especially relevant for property owners along US 160, where new concrete has recently been poured.
Do not use salt or standard ice melt on new concrete during the first winter. New concrete is still curing, and salt causes permanent surface damage.
Salt leads to scaling, flaking, and spalling from freeze–thaw cycles. Chlorides in salt can chemically weaken concrete and cause steel reinforcement to rust.
Once damaged, concrete deterioration worsens each winter and is costly to repair.
Please note that any sidewalk repairs are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner per Section 17 Article 4 of the Town’s Land Use Development Code.
Use these safer alternatives instead:
- Sand (best for traction)
- Non-clumping kitty litter
- Concrete-safe deicers such as calcium magnesium acetate (CMA).
Avoiding salt the first year helps ensure your sidewalk remains strong, safe, and long-lasting.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Public Works staff at 970-264-4151 x400.