With so many deicers available its hard to know which one to buy, Here is a quick guide:
• Sodium Chloride: Rock Salt is the cheapest ice melting option. Prices can be as low as $3 per bag (50 lbs) depending on supply. However, you get what you pay for. Rock Salt will only melt snow and ice effectively at temperatures down to +16 degrees, but performs best in the mid-20s. Rock Salt (sodium chloride) is highly corrosive and will damage asphalt, concrete, metal, lawn and most other surfaces over time. Bottom line: short term savings, long-term costs. • Magnesium Chloride: A premium/high performance ice melt due to its effectiveness. It’s gentle on surfaces and vegetation. It is also pet safe and it doesn’t track as much as other deicers. It has a low environmental impact. It will melt snow and ice effectively down to -20F. • Calcium Chloride: Calcium chloride is more expensive than both sodium and magnesium chlorides. It will melt ice to -25F. It is more corrosive than Magnesium but less corrosive then Rock Salt. It does track but will get the job done. • Liquid De-Icers: Ammonium sulfate, glycols, urea and formates are the most common on the market. Ideal for handicap ramps, entrance-ways, parking lots and steps. No ‘tracking” of salt or other compounds and most will melt to -25F. We’ve found the most effective ice melt plan includes both liquid and pellet ice melts. Experts advise to stay away from rock salt. A combination of Magnesium and a premium liquid ice melt for entrance ways is gaining popularity. Find specials on all these products on our website at https://kinzuachemical.com/shop/winter-products/