How did you handle the snow and ice last week?
Public service announcement, how to properly use ice melt products-
When winter weather brings snow and ice, keeping walkways and driveways safety is a top priority. Ice melt products, including rock salt, calcium chloride, and liquid ice melt, help to manage slippery conditions, but they all work in slightly different ways and should be used appropriately. This information will guide you through the different types of ice melt products and their proper use to ensure safety and efficiency. Professionals know that using all three will end up being the most effective and most efficient approach to keeping walkways safe during these conditions.
Rock Salt and most Ice Melt Pellets are corrosive and can leave a fine grit residue that can damage your sidewalks, front entryways, lobby floors, matting, and carpeting.
When and where to use each is critical to their performance and potential effect on the landscaping and building interiors. Ice melt and rock salt residues, as well as grit, are tracked in from parking lots and sidewalks. Use sodium and chloride-based ice melts up to 50 feet of from the entryway. Switch to Liquid Ice Melt for any areas 50 feet or closer to the entryway to avoid the tracking residue and grit into your building.
1. Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride)
When to Use Rock Salt:
Temperature Range: Rock salt is effective when the temperature is above 15°F (-9°C). Below this temperature, its effectiveness diminishes.
Best for: Large areas such as driveways and parking lots. It is commonly used for its affordability and ease of application.
2. Calcium Chloride
When to Use Calcium Chloride:
Temperature Range: Calcium chloride is effective in temperatures as low as -25°F (-32°C), making it a great option for very cold conditions.
Best for: Stubborn ice patches or areas that need faster melting action, such as steps, porches, and sidewalks.
3. Liquid Ice Melt (a Truekleen product)
When to Use Liquid Ice Melt:
Temperature Range: Liquid ice melt works well in moderate temperatures but can be used with additional chemicals to enhance performance in colder conditions.
Best for: Pre-treating surfaces before snow accumulation and preventing ice from forming. It’s commonly used on sidewalks, and smaller areas where quick results are needed.
Proper use lessens the negative impact and reduces labor cost from clean up.
While ice melt products are essential for maintaining safe surfaces during winter months, they can have significant impacts on the landscaping and interior environments. By understanding the effects of rock salt, calcium chloride, and liquid ice melt, you can use them more effectively while minimizing their potential to damage your landscaping and creating a mess indoors. We have Winterinse for that.
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