Ice Management by Design
This pattern is shaped by
Problem
Ice is the invisible hazard of cold climates — more dangerous than cold itself. Falls on ice cause more injuries than any other winter hazard. When ice management is left to salt and shoveling, the battle is constant, the salt damages vegetation and infrastructure, and the ice always wins eventually.
Evidence and Discussion
Passive ice management is possible through design: slopes that drain before water freezes, radiant heat at critical walking surfaces, materials that shed ice (smooth, dark surfaces that absorb solar heat), covered walkways that prevent accumulation, and drainage details that prevent meltwater from refreezing.
Therefore
design every walking surface, entrance, and critical path for ice prevention rather than ice removal. Slope all exterior surfaces for immediate drainage (minimum 2% grade). Use dark, smooth materials at entrances and steps that absorb solar heat and shed ice. Install radiant heat at the three critical points: the entrance threshold, the first three steps, and the path to the vehicle. Cover walkways where possible. The goal: no ice management needed for the daily routine between home and vehicle.