How Does Ice Melt Work? Using Safe Paw To Prevent And Melt Ice
What is Ice Melt?
Ice melt changes the chemical make up of water and ice to lower the freezing temperature to keep water from freezing in low temperatures. Depending on the makeup of the ice melt the freezing temperature can be lowered a few degrees or as much as -15 degrees F.
Many ice melts are a blend of calcium chloride pellets, sodium chloride, and magnesium pellets. Calcium chloride is considered to be the best compound of an ice melt due to its’ ability to melt ice faster and it has a long-lasting action. Ice melt may come in the form of flakes, crystals, or balls and can melt ice in temperatures down to -15 degrees F. You can also use an ice melt to prevent new ice from forming by spreading it prior to ice forming.
How does an Ice Melt work?
You can use ice melt to keep sidewalks from forming ice and to melt ice that has accumulated. Ice melt works by interacting with water and ice to form a liquid brine that in turn generates heat that melts the ice. The brine spreads out on the ice and breaks the ice bonds with the pavement. This can make the ice loosen and easy to shovel.
Ice Removal Techniques
It is important to choose the right ice melt. Some of the most popular ice melt products are sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and magnesium chloride. All these types have their advantages and disadvantages due to their environmental impact. For example, while rock salt is cheap and widely used it does not work well below freezing temperatures and can be harmful to plants and concrete.
Best Practices for Snow Removal
Timely snow removal helps prevent ice formation. Physical removal in combination with selective application of ice melt can be effective. Please remember that excessive use can cause chemical run-off that could damage plants besides polluting water bodies; just use enough.
Blended Ice Melts: A Balanced Approach
Blended ice melts consist of different ingredients including rock salt, and magnesium chloride as well as sometimes additives like calcium chloride that reduce the freezing point of water over a wide range of temperatures. These mixtures are intended to reduce costs while maximizing efficiency in melting action. But they may cause heavy harm to the environment. For instance, an example would be a blend which contains a small amount of calcium chloride which helps lower operational temperature without incurring high costs for pure calcium chloride. But is this concoction safe for the environment? Of course not. Anything that contains chloride is not safe for the environment.
Safe Usage of Ice Melt Products
When using ice melt, always prioritize safety for both the environment and personal property. Here are a few practical tips to ensure safe usage:
- Measure Correctly: Don’t just eyeball it! Use a calibrated spreader to apply ice melt uniformly. This prevents over-application, which can damage vegetation and hard surfaces.
- Timing is Key: Apply ice melt before the storm hits if possible. This preemptive action can prevent ice from bonding to surfaces, making it easier to manage afterwards.
- Protective Gear: Always wear gloves and ensure you have protective eyewear on. Some ice melt products, especially those containing calcium chloride or magnesium chloride, can irritate the skin or eyes upon contact.
- Proper Storage: Keep ice melt in a dry, sealed container to prevent clumping and degradation of the product.
De-icing: Essential Practices
Effective de-icing goes beyond just scattering salt. It involves a strategic approach to when and how you apply ice melt to optimize effectiveness while minimizing the environmental impact. For example, in areas close to vegetation or water bodies, consider using more eco-friendly options or blends that reduce the likelihood of damage.
Winter Safety: Protecting Your Family and Property
Ultimately, the goal during winter is not just to clear ice but to ensure safety comprehensively. This includes using products like Safe Paw, which provides an effective melting solution without the harmful effects of traditional salts like rock salt and magnesium chloride. By choosing products that are kinder to the environment and safe for all surfaces, you protect not just the immediate area but contribute to broader winter safety measures that benefit everyone.
Pet Safe Ice Melt
Safe Paw
The Original and the #1 Child and Pet Safe Ice Melt for over 20 years. Guaranteed environmentally safe – will not harm waterways and sensitive wetlands.
Tips for using Ice Melt
You may need to keep the following tips in mind when using ice melt:
- Follow the instructions indicated on your product.
- Ensure that you wear protective attire when using the product. You should put on gloves to avoid skin irritation.
- Store your product in a cool dry place. Ice melt products may absorb moisture and harden.
- You should avoid using ice melt on freshly built concrete.
- Use a shovel to clear snow accumulation.
Bulk Purchase With Safe Paw
Safe Paw, Child Plant Dog Paw & Pet Safe Ice Melt -35lb, 36 Pails
Safe Paw, Child Plant Dog Paw & Pet Safe Ice Melt -22lb, 100Bboxes
Safe Paw, Child Plant Dog Paw Pet Safe Ice Melt, 160 Jugs
Reasons why you should use Safe Paw Ice Melt:
- Safe Paw Ice melt works in below zero temperatures.
- Safe Paw is safer for pets’ paws.
- Safe Paw is sold in a store near you.
- Safe Paw Ice melts are safer for the environment than rock salts or other salt melts.
- Safe Paw Ice melt will not cause significant damage to pavement or concrete.
- Safe Paw is less likely to cause rusting on cars.
Common mistakes made by users when using Ice Melt products:
a) Excessive Use
Most manufacturers recommend less application of ice melt products. Excess product may cause damage to the vegetation beneath or the environment where the product is in use. Users are advised to read application instructions before using a product. The product should provide ideal quantities required for a particular area.
b) Wrong Application of the Product
You are advised to read application instructions to ensure that you use the product in the correct manner. Reading instructions also helps the user know where to apply the product. For example, you should avoid using ice melt on brick since it is porous and may wear off.
c) Using the Wrong Product
Most ice melts are made from a blend of calcium chloride, sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, and urea. However, these products each work at different temperatures making them effective in different situations. Some products are meant to prevent ice from forming, others are meant melt ice that has already formed to make it easier to clear, and others are meant to just provide traction on ice, by melting into the ice. A good note is that products that are fast or work in lower temperatures are usually more expensive.
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.
In summary, Safe Paw ice melt is made to suit all our customer’s ice melt needs. Safe Paw Ice melt works by weakening the ice bonds, melting the ice to water and making it easier to clear.
FAQs
Stay safe and confident this winter with Traction Magic!
This innovative, 100% natural product offers instant traction on any icy surface. Whether you’re navigating your sidewalk, steps, or driveway, Traction Magic helps you stay upright and prevents falls.
Other Ice Melt Products
Walk On Ice
Prevent slips at home, work or on the go, The handy disposable canister can be taken everywhere, with the same 100% naturally occurring minerals that provide instant traction on ice or snow.
Safe Thaw
Imagine an ice melt you can put down and never worry about. It won’t harm pets, kids and your property. That’s Safe Thaw. Unlike anything else on the market, Safe Thaw can change how winter affects our planet.
