Grounds, Landscaping & Snow

Introduction To Ice Melt Chemicals

Useful Information

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Ice Melt Chemicals

What Are The Basic Differences?

The most commonly used Ice melt product is what many of us know as rock salt (sodium chloride). It is used by most state departments of transportation on roads. In colder climate areas we may also use a “treated” rock salt in lower temperatures.

Common Name

Chemical Name

Common Uses

Benefits / Drawbacks

Calcium

Calcium Chloride

Sidewalks and parking garages

Magnesium

Magnesium Chloride

Sidewalks

Effective to much lower temperatures than salt; Exothermic or gives off heat so it can cause chemical burns

Effective to lower temperatures than salt but not as low as calcium

Rock salt treated with a variety of different liquid “accelerators” to activate faster and remain effective at lower temps

Varies

Blend

Sidewalks

Very expensive; Less corrosive than any of the products mentioned previously. Often used on high tech manufacturing or research sites

Calcium Magnesium Acetate

CMA

Lower cost application price than full “salting” and can remain in place for multiple days if storm doesn’t occur. More proactive clients prefer this as it helps melt initial snowfall, keeping sites safer and clear longer

Varies

Brine or Liquid Deicer

Pre-treatment before forecasted storm

One of many bagged ice melting products on the market used by our suppliers. Melts ice to -25°F | -32°C, available in 50 lb. bags. Exothermic action instantly generates heat. Pellet shaped for improved ice penetration. Doesn’t leave behind any residue, allowing for easier cleanup

N/A

Safestep

Sidewalks

Sidewalks, roads and tarmacs