De-icing is an essential part of property maintenance in the wintertime. There are several different options available, and the most viable option will depend on a number of different factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In general, calcium chloride is the most effective ice melt for parking lots. The most impressive thing about calcium chloride is that it can melt ice at up to around -29\u00b0C\u2014given how cold our winters are here in Winnipeg, it\u2019s the most viable ice melt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sodium chloride is another common contender\u2014while it only melts ice at around -7\u00b0C, it is extraordinarily<\/em> inexpensive. Sodium chloride is just rock salt\u2014that\u2019s why it\u2019s so cheap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the rest of this article, we\u2019re going to go over some of the circumstances that might affect which ice melt is best for you. Let\u2019s dive in: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Most ice melts can cause damage to plants, including turf, flowers, and other softscaping features. You won\u2019t be applying de-icer directly on any plants, but runoff from your parking lot can find its way to the surrounding soil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Calcium magnesium acetate is an excellent option here\u2014it\u2019s not particularly harmful to plants and doesn\u2019t damage concrete in the same way that an option like magnesium chloride might. There are downsides, however\u2014calcium magnesium acetate melts ice at relatively high temperatures (around -7\u00b0C), and it\u2019s quite expensive. Additionally, it can be harmful to aquatic life, so be sure to avoid using it around ponds and rivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Potassium chloride is yet another option\u2014it\u2019s less expensive than calcium magnesium acetate and is tolerated by vegetation in small quantities. Unfortunately, it\u2019s only useful for ice removal at around -4\u00b0C and it can rust metal rather quickly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Another option is to use calcium chloride sparingly\u2014while it can harm plants, it\u2019s tolerated in small quantities. By avoiding overapplication in areas that are likely to runoff to nearby plants, you can de-ice safely even in the dead of winter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to paved surfaces, calcium chloride and sodium chloride are your best bets if you\u2019re not worried about runoff to vegetation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sodium chloride is the most inexpensive option for melting ice and is by far the most popular ice melt on the market. While it can only melt ice in milder temperatures, you can use it in combination with other ice melt products to balance cost and effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Calcium chloride, on the other hand, is the most effective option for melting ice, especially at colder temperatures. Given that it can melt ice at around -29\u00b0C, you can use it at very low temperatures, making it an effective option even in harsh winter weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of your best options is to use a mix of sodium chloride and calcium chloride. They\u2019ll work together to lower the ice\u2019s freezing point, all while decreasing the amount you\u2019ll have to spend. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to melting ice, a little salt goes a long way\u2014especially if you\u2019re using calcium chloride. Too much, and you\u2019ll risk creating runoff that\u2019s dangerous to both plants and<\/em> concrete. An excess of salt can lead to spalling and other problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should consider applying a layer of sand over the snow and ice once you\u2019ve applied your de-icer; this will improve traction on your parking lot, reducing the risk of accidents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ice management can drastically reduce safety concerns during the winter months. Our professional ice management service takes everything into account, from the surface type of your parking lot to nearby vegetation. We\u2019re available to melt ice and snow all winter long, from the first snow in October or November to the extreme cold from December onwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIce Melt Options for Turf and Landscaping<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ice Melt Choices for Paved Surfaces<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Application Tips for Safe and Effective Ice Melting<\/strong> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Professional Ice Management for Businesses<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n