Ice Melt Vs Rock Salt What To Use On Business Premises

There is a constant debate on the pros and cons of ice melt, rock salt, blends, etc., which often jeopardize us. There are several options in the market; however, several commercial and residential premises rely heavily on rock salt. They think it to be the best ice melt for concrete, not realizing the long-term after-effects. Price, effectiveness, and sustainability play a significant role in deciding the product too.

When ice melt comes in contact with the pavement, it loosens the ice and breaks the surface bond, converts it to brine, making it easy to shovel it away. You need the correct product for different surfaces to help you do this efficiently.

Let us help you break down the differences between ice melt and rock salt so that you can make an informed decision. 

Melting point 

• Ice Melt: Even the best ice melt for concrete has different melting points depending on the blend, combination, and chloride type. You can choose from calcium chloride with a minimum effective temperature of up to -25°F; magnesium chloride has a minimum effective temperature of up to -13°F, calcium magnesium acetate is 15°F, etc. It indicates that a particular ice melt will not work beyond these temperatures. 

• Rock Salt has a melting point of up to 15°F, not making it an ideal solution for harsh winters. If the temperatures start falling beyond this, it will not remain effective. 

• With Safe Thaw ice melt, you can use it even in sub-zero temperatures and not worry about its effectiveness. 

 Eco-friendly 

• Ice Melt: Ice melt has different compositions and properties that may or may not work with the environment. In general, ice melt is less harmful to plant and animal life. However, it is not entirely safe either. 

• Rock Salt: It is not environment-friendly, causes considerable damage to the soil, and is not the best ice melt for concrete. Its crystalline pellets are more damaging to decks, concrete, and patio. It leaves a whitish residue on the surface and eventually corrodes it.  

• With Safe Thaw ice melt, you know you can leave it for a longer duration and not worry about concrete surface damage. Even if you wash it off, it will not damage your vegetation because of its all-natural properties. 

Pet-Friendly

• Ice Melt: Although it contains chlorides, it may or may not harm your pet’s paws or burn them. Most ice melts are safe for your pet’s paws. 

• Rock Salt is not pet-friendly as the crystalline rock salt pellets hurt their paws and burn them. They find it difficult to walk. 

• With Safe Thaw ice melt, you can take your dogs or pets out anytime as it does not burn their paws or cause stomach problems. 

Conclusion

These are the top three differences between ice melt and rock salt. However, looking at the comparative analysis, it is clear that ice melt is better than rock salt, but not entirely safe. 

However, with Safe Thaw ice melt, you have the peace of mind that it will not harm your vegetation, home and proves the best ice melt for concrete as well. 

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