Winter ice can be a real hassle, especially on driveways, steps, and walkways. It’s not just annoying—it can lead to dangerous slips and falls. Shoveling and sanding help, but ice melt is a simple and effective solution. If you’re dealing with icy conditions in your neighborhood, here’s what you need to know to stay safe this winter.
What Is It? How Does It Work?
Ice melt works by lowering the freezing point of water, attracting moisture to form a brine solution that generates heat and melts the ice. Not all ice melt products are the same, so it’s important to know which type you're using to ensure you're applying it correctly and getting the best results.
Some ice melts can lose effectiveness as temperatures drop, so the colder it gets, the less effective some products may be. If you live in an area with extremely cold weather, ice melt products containing calcium chloride tend to work better, as they’re designed to perform in harsher conditions.
Are There Different Types?
Ice melt comes in various forms and is made from different materials, with the most common active ingredients being sodium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and calcium magnesium acetate. Each type has its own benefits and uses, depending on your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt): The most widely used option. It’s effective but can be corrosive to concrete, metal, and harmful to plants and pets.
Calcium Chloride: One of the most powerful ice melts, working in temperatures as low as -25°F. It’s great for extreme winters and can be less harmful to plants but can cause skin irritation.
Magnesium Chloride: Works well down to -13°F and is less corrosive than rock salt. It’s gentler on surfaces like concrete and safer for plants.
Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): Can be less corrosive and works by preventing ice from bonding to surfaces. It's usually in liquid form and can be safer for plants and pets.
Blended Ice Melts: These combine different chemicals to offer a balance of performance and safety. They’re great for moderate winters and adaptable to various temperatures.
Usage Tips and Tricks
Different types of ice melt require different application methods, whether you’re using pellets, granules, or liquid. But there are a few key guidelines to keep in mind when applying:
Apply Early: Start applying ice melt as soon as it starts snowing or surfaces get slippery to prevent ice from forming.
Clear Snow First: If snow has already built up, shovel or plow it away before applying ice melt.
Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves or protective gear to avoid skin irritation.
Apply Evenly: Use a light, even layer of ice melt for the best results.
Use a Spreader for Dry Ice Melt: For pellets or granules, use a spreader to get an even coat. Carr Hardwaare has a variety of spreaders to use depending on your specific needs. Ask an expert associate today!
Use a Sprayer for Liquid Ice Melt: For liquid ice melt, a clean garden sprayer works best for an even spread.
Remove Excess: Once the ice has melted, remove any leftover ice melt to avoid damage to your surface or plants.
Dispose Properly: Follow disposal instructions from the manufacturer or move excess ice melt away from sensitive areas.
How Long Does Ice Melt Remain Effective?
How fast ice melt works depends on a few things: the type of product, the temperature, and how thick the ice is. Here’s what you should know:
Type of Ice Melt: Some products, like calcium chloride, work fast and can start melting ice in as little as 15 minutes, even in temps as low as -25°F. Rock salt (sodium chloride) takes longer and isn’t as effective when it’s below 20°F, so it may take more time to show results.
Temperature: Ice melt works quickest when it’s close to freezing (32°F). As it gets colder, some types of ice melt may take longer or not work as well. For those really cold stretches, magnesium chloride or calcium chloride tend to work faster.
Ice Thickness: The thicker the ice, the longer it takes for ice melt to do its job. A light layer might melt in 20 minutes, but thick ice could take longer and may need another round of ice melt.
Pros & Cons of Different Ice Melts
Picking the right ice melt for your driveways, steps, walkways, and other slippery spots helps to avoid slips and falls.
Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt):
Can damage concrete
Harmful to pets
Doesn’t work well in really cold temps
Lasts a few hours, but might need reapplication in extreme cold or heavy ice
Calcium Chloride:
Less damaging to concrete but still can cause harm
Moderately harmful to pets
Works great in cold temps (down to -25°F)
Starts working quickly
Typically lasts longer than rock salt, usually for several hours
Magnesium Chloride:
Gentler on concrete
Safer for pets compared to other chlorides
Works in cold temps down to -13°F
Usually lasts several hours, often longer than rock salt
Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA):
One of the safest for concrete
Generally safer for pets
Works slower than chlorides
Might need reapplication, especially in very cold temps
Best for preventing ice from bonding to surfaces
Blended Ice Melts:
Blends with magnesium chloride or CMA are gentler, while higher concentrations of rock salt may be damaging
"Pet-friendly" or low-chloride blends are safer for pets and plants
Blended ice melts usually last longer, especially when temps are unpredictable
Ice melt is a great way to handle winter weather and keep things safe around your home.
Find your ice melt today at Carr Hardware!
