Ice Melt: The different Kinds and How to Apply It?

Choosing the right ice melt can be a tricky task, especially when all you're working with are catchy names like Blue Heat, Safe-T-Salt, Snow Joe, Ice Slicer, and Ice Eater. These brands may sound impressive, but there’s more to consider than just the label when it comes to selecting the best option for your driveway, walkways, and even your pets.

Key Ingredients

Most ice melts are made from a blend of salts such as sodium chloride, calcium chloride, or magnesium chloride. While these compounds are effective at melting ice, they can cause significant damage over time. According to David P. Orr, director of the Cornell Local Roads Program, all salts can seep into porous pavement and lead to cracks and deterioration.

Application Tips

  • Mix with an Abrasive: To reduce the amount of salt on your concrete, consider mixing your ice melt with sand. Sand will not only lower the concentration of salt but also improve traction, making it safer to walk on icy surfaces.

  • Apply in Layers: Rather than dumping a heavy amount of salt all at once, apply it in light layers—first before a snowstorm hits, and then again during the storm. This ensures that the salt will dissolve into the snow, making it easier to clear away. Ice melt won’t magically disappear just because it’s sprinkled; a little goes a long way.

  • Temperature Considerations: If the temperature is above 15°F, regular rock salt is usually effective, as it lowers the freezing point of water to about 5°F in lab conditions. However, the real-world effectiveness of salt is influenced by factors like wind, ground temperature, and the rate of snow accumulation. For temperatures below 15°F, opt for a salt blend that includes calcium chloride, which can work in conditions as low as -25°F.

Environmental and Pet-Friendly Considerations

  • Concrete Concerns: Chlorides, the primary ingredient in most ice melts, can cause rusting, cracking, and deterioration of concrete. Apply ice melt sparingly and mix it with sand to minimize damage. Concrete is particularly vulnerable over time, so take care with usage.

  • Impact on Plants: Salt can prevent plants from absorbing the nutrients and water they need, which is why it's important to clear up any excess salt after the ice melts. Avoid allowing salty slush to sit on your lawn, as it can have long-term negative effects on plant health.

  • Pets and Ice Melt: Be wary of ice melt products that claim to be "pet-safe." Experts caution that even pet-friendly options can irritate dogs' paws, causing burns and inflammation. Dr. Robert Sharp, a retired veterinarian, recommends creating a “rinse tray” by the door to wash off any salt from pets' paws after walks. This will prevent irritation and further licking, which can worsen the condition.

Beware of Overblown Claims

  • Eco-Friendly Products: Some products are marketed as more environmentally friendly, such as those with calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). However, CMA is often just a coating on traditional salt and doesn’t reduce the amount of salt that ultimately ends up on your surfaces, so it’s not as beneficial as the label suggests.

  • Pet-Safe Ice Melts: Claims that an ice melt is safer for pets are often misleading. While these products may sound promising, the best strategy is to rinse off your pets' paws after they walk on salted areas to prevent irritation.

Best Practices for Winter Care

  • Use Salt Sparingly: Apply ice melt in moderation to avoid unnecessary damage to your concrete, and always mix it with sand to reduce its concentration on the surface.

  • Layered Application: Apply ice melt in thin layers before and during a snowstorm for the best results. This ensures the product dissolves into the snow and makes clearing easier.

  • Protect Your Lawn: Clean up leftover salt after it has melted the ice to prevent harm to your plants and lawn.

  • Rinse Pet Paws: After walks, wash your pets' paws to avoid irritation from the salt and reduce the risk of burns or inflammation.

In conclusion, while no ice melt is completely without risks, following these best practices can help minimize damage to your property and keep your pets safe throughout the winter months. By being mindful of how and when you apply salt, you can enjoy a safer and more efficient ice management strategy.