4 Facts About Rock Salt You Must Know

If you live in a northern climate and have ever needed to de-ice your driveway or sidewalk, you’ve probably used rock salt. But did you know that there are other types of deicers that can do the job even better than rock salt? In this article, we’ll examine some facts about rock salt as a deicer so that you can make an informed decision next time it comes time to choose what type of product to use. If you’re using salt as a defroster in the car, you must read this article.

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4 Facts About The Rock Salt You Must Know

1. Rock salt is toxic to plants and animals. 

It can also be harmful to humans, especially if you get it in your eyes. Rock salt can cause skin irritation and damage concrete, asphalt, and metal surfaces.

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2. Cold temperatures limit the effectiveness of rock salt

Rock salt is effective in temperatures above 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it loses its effectiveness in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature falls below zero degrees Fahrenheit, rock salt is not effective at all.

3. The Best Deicer Isn’t Salt at All

Rock salt is cheap and easy to find, but it can cause damage to natural stone surfaces like concrete slabs because it’s abrasive. It also doesn’t melt ice as quickly as other types of deicers do. Rock salt is just one of many deicers available to you. It has been used for centuries and remains the most commonly used deicer today. However, there are other options you may want to consider if you have an environmentally friendly preference.

4. Chemical-free ice melt

Safe Paw is a chemical-free compound that can melt ice on your roof quickly, effectively, and safely. It’s a granular de-icer that’s made of naturally occurring minerals and doesn’t contain any chloride or sodium compounds. It’s safe for concrete patios and driveways, but it also melts snow quickly without damaging the underlying surface. 

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Rock Salt Basics

Rock salt—that’s sodium chloride for you science buffs—is mined directly from ancient seabeds and underground deposits. It’s the heavyweight champion when it comes to melting ice on those slippery winter paths. But, did you ever pause while tossing those crystals on your walkway and think about what it’s doing down there?

De-Icing

When it comes to de-icing, rock salt works by lowering the freezing point of water—a neat trick called freezing point depression. It’s why that ice on your driveway turns into water, even if the air’s teeth-chatteringly cold. Effective, sure, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

Pet Safety

Now, onto pet safety. Imagine your furry friend trotting across a salted driveway. Not ideal, right? Those salt granules can stick to their paws, potentially causing irritation or worse, poisoning if they lick their paws later. Always a good moment to question, “Is there a safer way?”

Corrosion

And, oh, the corrosion! While rock salt is busy melting ice, it’s also feasting on your driveway, car, and those expensive boots. Sodium chloride can accelerate rusting and decay of metal and gradually wear down the concrete.

Winter Safety

Navigating winter safety means more than keeping the walk ice-free. It’s also about using methods that don’t backfire on your property or health. So, while rock salt is the old-school go-to, might there be something better?

Curious yet? Maybe it’s time to look beyond the old sack of rock salt. There are alternatives out there that are kinder to your pets, your concrete, and yes, even your boots. Why not explore options that promise efficacy without the eco-guilt?

Remember, every sprinkle of salt has a story—a dash of geology, a sprinkle of chemistry, and a whole lot of responsibility. How about we make this winter a bit safer for everyone, furry friends included?

Conclusion

So, now you know all the facts about rock salt. Although salt is a cheap and effective deicer, it has its limitations. If you’re looking to keep your sidewalks and driveways safe from ice and snow during winter, consider investing in a different type of deicer. 

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