Should You Put Ice Melt Down Before Snow?

Ice melt is a solution for dealing with snow and ice, and it has its advantages when used appropriately. However, how you use it is crucial. While there are many products on the market, there are many misconceptions regarding the effective use of ice melt. Understanding what it is and how it works can help you better understand how to use ice melt to melt snow and prevent ice accumulation. 

For a long time, rock salt has been one of the most widely utilized materials for melting snow and ice. There are also clear disadvantages to using it, including concrete, pet and plant damage. Natural products like Safe Paw ice melt are safe for pets, plants, and concrete while being effective on all surfaces and temperatures.

What Is Ice Melt?

Ice melt works by reducing the freezing temperature of water in general. It has a range of ingredients, the most frequent of which are calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, and sodium chloride, though urea is also used. Each of these compounds acts in a slightly different way.  

The chloride-based ice melt is quite disastrous to concrete and the environment, whereas natural ice melt is free from hazardous chemicals. For example, Safe Paw ice melter ingredients are non-corrosive, pet safe, environmentally safe, and won’t harm plants.

Should You Put Ice Melt Down Before The Snow?

Applying ice melt before a storm will result in the formation of brine, which will prevent ice from attaching to surfaces. While ice melt may not entirely melt all of the snow that falls, using it ahead of time will make ice and snow removal easier.

During precipitation, the pre-applied ice melt will keep the snow from hardening and forming dangerous icy layers. Apply another layer of ice melt after getting an inch of snow.

Paw Safe Ice Melt

Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Ice Melt 

• Fresh snow must be removed before using ice melt, whether by shoveling, plowing, blowing, or sweeping. 

• Overuse of ice melt results in more products being tracked into your facility unintentionally, causing damage to your floors. 

• It is critical not only for determining the amount but also for ensuring safety and application. 

• Read and follow the instructions given on your ice melt packaging. Do check the ingredients of your ice melt before making the final purchase.

• Ice melt tracked inside is ugly and even dangerous to floors. Hence, do not forget to clean it up.

Preventive Measures:

• Monitor Weather Forecasts: Stay informed about upcoming snowfall and freezing conditions.
• Pre-Treat Surfaces: Apply ice melt before snowfall to create a protective barrier.
• Clear Debris: Remove leaves and debris to prevent them from freezing to surfaces.
• Even Application: Apply ice melt evenly to ensure thorough coverage.
• Prompt Cleanup: After snowfall, clear snow and slush to prevent ice buildup.
• Alternative Options: Consider non-corrosive ice melt alternatives like Safe Paw for surfaces vulnerable to damage.

Conclusion

In the winter, do not make the costly error of skipping ice melt. Neglecting your walkways and driveways could end up costing you far more than the expense of ice melt in the long run. Accidents involving slipping and falling are a source of liability. To avoid these problems, use a safe and effective deicer like Safe Paw ice melt and enjoy the serenity of white landscape in winters.

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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