This Is The Safest Ice Melt To Use On Concrete Driveways

Every winter poses a new challenge, and with changing weather conditions, the intensity and frequency of snowfall have changed everywhere. There are regions where snowfall has declined and others where the intensity has gone up. And all this in the last two decades! 

While we figure out the best ice melt to use on different surfaces, let us also understand if rock salt is poisonous to humans. 

Rock salt or sodium chloride is one of the most commonly used ice melt products across the United States. Since it is cheaper than other ice melt products, there is a lot of demand for rock salt. However, it is not safe for the environment or humans either. It is the crudest form of salt, and excessive salt leaves a whitish residue on concrete and damages it. In addition, the diluted salt gets absorbed into the soil, causing plants to wilt as they cannot absorb the necessary minerals from the earth. 

When it comes in contact with human skin, it causes minor irritation, redness, and a minor rash. However, in its wet state, rock salt can also cause a minor salt burn that is potentially dangerous and painful. 

So, in short, rock salt is not safe for humans. 

What Type Of Salt Is Used On Roads? 

The most common ingredient used to deice roads is rock salt or sodium chloride (NaCl). It comprises much larger granules and is easily spread on the surface without much effort. Salt does not melt ice but alters the state of water, converting it to brine. 

Let’s dive into the frosty world of deicers, where not all that glitters is gold, especially when it comes to protecting our concrete and green spaces.

Calcium chloride 

It is less harmful than rock salt and does not damage concrete. It can work up to -25⁰F and works quicker than sodium chloride. However, overapplication can damage the surface and the foliage around. 

Magnesium Chloride (MgCl2)

Often lauded for its effectiveness, magnesium chloride might just be a Trojan horse for your walkways. Sure, it melts ice down to 0°F, but it also invites moisture into concrete like a moth to a flame, speeding up those notorious freeze-thaw cycles that lead to cracks and crumbles. While it’s easier on the earth than some salts, it’s still not a saint, posing threats to your green friends and metal fixtures. So, is it a concrete safe ice melt? Well, that’s for you to answer!

Potassium Chloride (KCl)

Moving on to potassium chloride—the gentler cousin in the salt family. It’s kinder on your concrete and plays nice with the pets, but when the mercury plummets, its ice-melting mojo fizzles out. You might find yourself applying more and more, which isn’t great for your wallet or the planet.

Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA)

Then there’s Calcium Magnesium Acetate, the poster child for salt alternatives. It’s a breath of fresh air for eco-friendly enthusiasts and safer for the concrete jungle. But, don’t let its good reputation fool you—it struggles in the deep chill and can lighten your pocketbook considerably.

Beet Juice-Based Deicers

On the more whimsical side, we have beet juice-based deicers. They’re as eco-friendly as it gets and won’t assault your concrete, but they’re not without their quirks. Think less effective in bitter cold and potential for some colorful driveway stains that might have you seeing red.

In the icy arena of winter woes, while traditional salts and their kin like magnesium and potassium chloride offer a quick fix, they’re not without their pitfalls. They’re the frenemies of your driveway—helpful today but potentially harmful tomorrow.

Carbonyl diamide– Safe Paw comprises a dual-patented compound with a natural blend of carbonyl diamide, special glycols, and inhibitors. These are not only all safe for your environment but also protect your foliage. Carbonyl diamide also doubles as a fertilizer, thus making it highly safe to use. For those seeking a safe ice melt for sidewalks, Safe Paw emerges as a knight in shining armor. It’s the best ice melt for concrete, sans the harsh chemicals. It’s not just eco-friendly; it’s a concrete caretaker that ensures your winter walkways are safe without the environmental guilt trip.

As you sprinkle your way through winter’s challenges, remember, the best solutions are those that safeguard our steps without stepping on nature’s toes. Here’s to a winter of wise choices and well-kept walkways!

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Conclusion 

There will always be a debate about the best ice melt in the market, whether to choose rock salt for roads or something else, whether it will damage concrete in the long run or not, and much more. All we can say is, don’t overuse any salt on roads as the repairs will cost you far more than the actual product. Safe Paw is the safest salt to use on concrete driveways and roads. It is not only safe for pets and kids; it is a great alternative to rock salt too. It will save you millions of dollars in repairs and boost plant growth. 

Gaia Enterprises Inc. delivers 100% pet-safe and environmentally friendly winter products. Safe Paw, our flagship product, is the #1 selling pet-safe ice melt that does not harm pets, safe if ingested, and safe on all types of concrete.

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