Top Myths About Ice Melt Salt

Your ability to choose the highest quality salt or best ice melt will depend on how informed you are about the types, proper usage, and other important factors. Unfortunately, there are many myths about ice melt that may prevent you from making an informed decision. Before you choose a preferred ice melt and start using it, here’s what you should know. 

Common Ice Melt Myths Debunked

I. Ice melt is expensive

While ice melt is generally more costly than alternatives like rock salt, the price can match that or rock salt or be lower if you buy in bulk. Saying ice melt is expensive isn’t, therefore, entirely true and subject to how much you buy and other factors i.e., where you buy. 

II. Ice melt is the best for the coldest temperatures

Since ice melt is an anti-icing agent, it is assumed it must stop new ice from forming. However, the effectiveness of ice melt is dictated by factors such as temperature. Ice melt will work at lower temperatures than rock salt i.e., -15 to –25 degrees Fahrenheit. 

However, any temperature below this range will affect the effectiveness of ice melt as an anti-icing agent. If temperatures fall below –25 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s advisable to take other measures i.e., pre-salting your driveway.

III. Ice melt damages surfaces

There is a common misconception that all salt-based products are used for getting rid of ice/snow damage concrete and asphalt driveways. This isn’t the case. While ice melt can damage concrete, it is less harmful than rock salt, which is usually 96-99% sodium chloride. 

Ice melt can damage concrete but won’t damage asphalt. Ice melt also has a limited effect on cars. Provided it is used as instructed and removed when its work is done, ice melt is safe. 

IV. Ice melt doesn’t contain any salt

Ice melt is composed of sodium chloride and other salts such as magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, and calcium magnesium acetate. While the concentration of sodium chloride isn’t as high as in rock salt, ice melt still contains some salt and other ingredients.

V. Ice melt is 100% safe for pets

While ice melt contains less salt than rock salt making it more pet friendly, this shouldn’t be mistaken to mean that dogs and other pets should be allowed to ingest ice melt. Pets like cats and dogs shouldn’t ingest salt in large quantities. Research shows that salt consumption in dogs can cause sodium ion poisoning, excessive thirst, vomiting, depression, tremors, vomiting, seizures, and even death in extreme cases. 

Pet owners must exercise caution even when buying the highest quality salt for melting ice. What’s more, even if pets don’t ingest ice melt, it can irritate and crack their paws.

VI. Ice melt is hazardous to human health

The internet is packed with articles that claim ice melt is hazardous (contains harmful chemicals) and other additives that cause allergies and digestive system problems. While there are some ice melt products that may contain harmful chemicals, not all ice melt is bad. 

The highest quality salt sold by renowned manufacturers is formulated with safety in mind and hardly possesses any direct serious risk to human health.

VII. Ice melt works slowly

Since different ice melt is formulated differently, it’s not accurate to conclude that all ice melt works at the same time. Some ice melt will work fast. If you are using ice melt that works slowly, there may be several reasons for this. 

For instance, the temperature could be too low (past the threshold for ice melt to work effectively). Some ice melt formulations may also work faster than others. Buy from reputable ice melt manufacturers to get a product that works in minutes. 

VIII. More ice melt is better

Contrary to popular belief, using a lot of ice melt doesn’t necessarily mean there will be better results. In fact, you require very little quantities of the highest quality salt or ice melt to get the job done. 

While most low-quality ice melt is cheap, you must use a lot of it to get the same results you enjoy with small quantities of high-quality ice melt. The focus should therefore be on the quality of the ice melt in question as opposed to quantity.

The climate and temperature also dictate how ice melt works. Increasing the quantity of salt used doesn’t translate to faster melting if the air lacks moisture (below 15 degrees Fahrenheit).  Over application can also introduce hazards like slipping, falling, and property damage.

Top Myths About Ice Melt Salt

 

Tips for Using Ice Melt Products

 

 

Before you run to the leading ice melt suppliers near you, it’s important to understand how to use ice melt products. While melting ice may be the only thing on your mind, you must beware of the risks of using ice melt products that are largely salt-based. 

For instance, you risk damaging your driveway, killing your garden plants, damaging your skin, corroding your roof, or endangering your pets, if you don’t use ice melt products as directed. 

There are also ways for enjoying the best value for money. Some application tips can make your ice melt product last longer. Our focus here is on the most important tips to help you have a smooth, safe and effective experience when using ice melting products. 

4 Crucial Tips for Using Ice Melt Products

I. Buy from reputable ice melt suppliers only!

To avoid wasting money on ineffective and potentially dangerous ice melt products, stick to reputable ice melt suppliers and manufacturers only who sell tested and proven products. Some cheap ice melting products take too long to melt ice or don’t melt ice/snow at all. Buying from reputable manufacturers and suppliers ensures you get the right product. 

Given there are many types of ice melt products ranging from salts to blends of salts that are made for unique applications, you should deal with renowned manufacturers only who make a unique variety of products bound to work regardless of the unique needs of a customer. 

Reputable ice melting manufacturers have products that work in different temperatures, quantities, surfaces, etc. They even have products that are safe for the environment. The research that goes into making effective ice melt products for a variety of applications can only be done by reputable manufacturers. 

In a nutshell, don’t buy ice melt products from anyone! To avoid counterfeit products, buy from reputable ice melts suppliers that stock legitimate ice melt brands. 

II. Apply ice melt at the right time

Having the best ice melt product won’t mean much if you want to use it when it’s too late. The best time for applying is just before the snow starts falling or immediately after cleaning the snow. You can follow the weather forecast to know the exact time to visit ice melt suppliers near you and stock up on the best ice melt brands you can find. 

Being proactive also ensures you find the best ice melt brand in stores. Shortages are inevitable, especially at the beginning of winter. You shouldn’t wait to order last minute and be forced to settle for little-known brands that are probably ineffective. 

Ice melt should be applied ahead of time to ensure it works as designed. Also, you won’t use as much product resulting in significant cost savings. 

III. Apply as directed by ice melt suppliers and manufacturers

As mentioned above, there are many ice melt products on sale today. These products have different usage instructions. There is no universal way to apply ice melt. Unless you are using the same product you used last winter, you need to read the instructions and follow them to the letter. 

Generally, the best products will have detailed instructions on how to apply. Reputable ice melt suppliers point out important precautions. For instance, you may be advised to mix your ice melt with sand to reduce corrosion on pavements and to also add traction. 

You also stand to learn other application tips like using spreaders to avoid applying ice melt on areas capable of being damaged. The best ice melt products also come with detailed instructions on application i.e., how to layer the product. You’ll also learn about important but commonly overlooked precautions, such as wearing eyewear and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from the salt. 

Generally, any question on usage is usually addressed (from the perfect temperature for using the product to other environmental factors to consider like wind and the environmental-friendliness of the product). 

IV. Remember to remove the salt when the job is done

Most ice melt products are made of salt, which can harm plants and corrode surfaces when left too long. Salt can also cause pollution when washed away by surface runoff that finds its way into drainage systems. 

In fact, the best ice melt brands have been made to be 100% safe as long as they are used accordingly, which includes getting rid of the salt once it has done its job. So, when the ice is gone, scoop the ice melt and dispose of it as instructed.

If you buy your ice melt products from reputable ice melt suppliers, use the product at the right time, and as directed, you should take care of most, if not all, risks associated with ice melt products. Most importantly, don’t forget to remove the product! 

Buy the best ice melt products in the market today!

Tips for Using Ice Melt Products

 

Tips To Melt Ice Faster

 

When you are looking for a way to help melt ice faster, there are many things that you can do. You could use sand or salt and then wait around for the sun to come out. This might work if it is not too cold outside. However, in most cases, these will not be enough to get rid of all the ice on your driveway or sidewalk quickly. In this blog post, we will provide six tips that may be useful when trying to melt ice faster.

 

6 Tips to Melt Ice Faster

Use a Top-quality Ice Melt

Getting a good-quality ice melt is a good idea. This will help make the ice go away faster and not cause any damage to your sidewalk or driveway. At NorthRock Minerals, we produce a variety of ice melters, including rock salt and magnesium chloride.

 

Use Rock Salt

Rock salt is one of the best for melting ice quickly. It has been used for centuries in order to keep people safe on icy surfaces. Not only does it work well around walkways or driveways, but pedestrians can also use this type of ice melt if they are trying to get from point A to point B without slipping and falling onto the ground. The key when using rock salt is making sure that you apply a good layer so that all parts will be covered with the substance as soon as possible.

 

Lighting a Fire

If you are using salt as an ice breaker, lighting a fire in front of it can aid in melting the snow much quicker than just letting the sun do its job. Get some dry leaves from nearby trees and place them near where you want to light the fire, then add some kindling like small twigs on top of that before igniting it with a lighter or matches. You can also try placing this under your vehicle tires so they don’t get stuck while driving over icy surfaces during wintertime if possible.

 

Mix salt and water together in a bucket, then pour it on the ice 

While this may sound like a strange way to help melt ice faster, it is actually one of the most effective. The water will cause an instant change in temperature, and between that and the salt, you may find yourself with less ice on your driveway or sidewalk than what was there before.

 

Use Ice Scrapers

These are specifically made for removing snow from walkways and driveways without them freezing over again. They can be found at hardware stores near other snow removal supplies like shovels as well but make sure that they are durable enough to handle scraping up large amounts of ice, or they won’t last very long when trying to break down all of this frozen substance either. 

 

Use a Hot Water Sprayer

If you have an attachment on the end of your hose that is compatible with hot water, this can be used as well and help break down the ice before it has time to freeze back over again. The problem will come when trying to find out where there’s no snow or slush in order for this method to work properly, but if you happen to live close enough, then this could be worth giving a try at least once.

 

Final Thoughts

There are various ways to melt ice faster. However, the best would be getting a good-quality ice melt from a trusted brand. NorthRock Minerals is a trusted brand that has been producing this substance for decades. Find out more about our ice melters and what we have available in the online store here.

Tips To Melt Ice Faster

 

 

Will Ice Melt Damage New Concrete?

Do you have a new concrete patio? Winter is coming, and it’s time to think about how the ice from snow will affect your investment. What happens when there is too much ice that melts on top of the fresh concrete? Will it damage it in any way? It might be hard for most people to know what kind of effect this could have, but luckily we do! In this blog post, we’ll go over all the signs of damage that can happen to your new concrete.

 

Will ice melt damage new concrete?

The free-thaw-freezing effect caused by some types of ice melt, such as calcium chloride and magnesium chloride, can cause damage to your new concrete. This is because these types of ice melt are corrosive, which means that the high-grade salt leaches through the concrete, causing it to erode over time. Concrete will start breaking up after a few years or sooner if massive amounts of water flowing on top at once from heavy rain or snow melt, for example. It’ll also break down faster if the freeze-thaw cycle happens too often.

 

What are the signs of damage?

There will be a few different warning signs that your concrete is starting to show wear and tear from all the moisture. The first sign of damage you’ll see will be in the form of cracks, which can cause further problems like water getting inside (which would make it freeze).

 

After this, you might start seeing some erosion patterns on top or even potholes forming as well. Some other reasons for these types of damages could also include frost heave or expansion due to quick freezes followed by thaws. Cracking during exposure to high-temperature differences, such as hot days followed by cold nights; alkali-silica reaction where there’s too much sodium chloride present because of salt being used as the de-icer for ice and snow.

 

What’s the best way to make sure this doesn’t happen?

The good news is that there are ways you can prevent your new concrete from getting damaged if it starts to rain or snow heavily, so let’s go over these methods in detail. If you’re worried about damage, then one of the easiest things you can do is cover up with some plastic sheets before anything has a chance to be exposed at all.

 

You’ll want to use a heavy-duty type that won’t rip easily because wind gusts could cause problems as well (which would lead to unwelcomed moisture). Next, we recommend covering any plants around, too, since they may not handle being soaked by water very well either; after all, frosts and freezes can cause damage to the plants too.

 

The best way is through a system with an ice melting mat that’s made with stainless steel beads or granules, which will keep it from getting corrosive levels of salt leaching into your concrete. This type of de-icing system doesn’t use any salt at all! Instead, they work by lowering the freezing temperature, so there’s less chance for this damaging effect to happen in the first place.

 

You’ll just need some simple upkeep since you have to change out these mats once every few years because they won’t last forever either. But luckily changing them out isn’t difficult if you follow our instructions.

 

If it starts snowing heavily around your area, then be sure to invest in a roof rake to make it easier when the snow finally melts. You’ll want something like our aluminum roof rake, which is durable and lightweight so that you can easily get rid of any ice or snow on your roof quickly.

 

At NorthRock Minerals, we offer a variety of ice melt products and solutions. Contact us today to learn more and get a quote for what you need.

Will Ice Melt Damage New Concrete?

Pellets of Fire – The Ultimate Ice Melt Review

There are many ice melt brands on sale today in the US. However, one brand stands out – Pellets of Fire. The ice melt comes in three main forms i.e., in a 50-pound bag, 9-pound jug, and 2400-pounds pallets for large-scale use. 

All Pellets of Fire products are manufactured by NorthRock Minerals, a company that has been in existence since 1993. Here’s important information to help you decide which Pellets of Fire product works for you.

Pellets of Fire Review

If you want an ice melter in bulk, consider the 2400-pound pallet bags. This bulk supply comes highly recommended on Amazon  (4.5/5-stars). People who have bought Pellets of Fire in bulk love the value for money, portion size, value for money, usability, and effectiveness of the ice melt. The ice melt comes in 48×50 bags.  

The ice melt also comes in other sizes as mentioned above. Regardless of the quantity of product you buy, the composition is the same and so are the benefits. 

Main Pros

Superior melting: The ice melt is fast and effective for melting ice on pavements, driveways, sidewalks, and other road surfaces as soon as it is applied. The ice melt works at –25 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Most importantly, it starts working immediately on contact attributable to its main ingredient – purified calcium chloride, which is tested and proven effective ice melter. 

Safe for plants and surfaces. No stains/damage: Pellets of Fire won’t stain rugs, floors, and rugs or damage bricks, stone, or concrete surfaces. The ice melt has also been proven to be safe for plants. The pellets won’t harm concrete, wood, grass, or metal.

Effective in lesser quantities: When compared to other ice melt brands, you need fewer pellets to get the job done. The ice melt starts working on contact and features powerful heat distribution resulting in a small number of pellets doing more.

Made in America by a renowned ice melt manufacturer: Pellets of Fire is 100% made in America – a country with strict quality controls. You rest assured of quality, unlike with other cheap ice melt imports.

Pellets of Fires is by NorthRock Minerals, a leading premium manufacturer of ice and snow removal products. The company was established in 1993, making it one of the oldest ice melt manufacturers in the US. NorthRock Minerals has an extensive product line. The company’s constant investment in R&D and technology enables the production of products like Pellets of Fire that are optimal in chemistry, performance, safety, and packaging.

Unlike other ice melt manufacturers today, NorthRock Minerals has established strategic partnerships with the largest calcium chloride pellets, invested in a state-of-the-art ice melt production facility strategically located in New Jersey.

NorthRock Minerals isn’t a new ice melt maker looking to cash in on a lucrative product. The company’s long presence in the industry, strategic partnerships, and investment in research enables the production of high-quality products at great prices. Most importantly, supply is guaranteed! Consumers can find Pellets of Fire when they most need it.

Available in many sizes: You can buy Pellets of Fire in a 9-lbs jug, 20-lbs bag, 50-lbs bag & 50-lbs pail. If you don’t need bags of ice melt, the 9-pound jug will come in handy. While the contents are the same (pure calcium chloride), the jug comes with convenience. You can carry your ice melt around for quick application during severe weather conditions. 

Since Pellets of Fire products are safe for plants, animals, and road surfaces, you don’t have to worry about corrosion or toxicity on the go. The 50-lbs Pellets of Fire is for those who want considerably more ice melt for typical applications like clearing ice on driveways, pathways, sidewalks, sets, and stairs.

 

If you want to buy a high-quality ice melt for home or commercial use in whatever quantity (bulk or 9-lbs), consider Pellets of Fire. Besides getting unmatched value for money because you are buying in bulk, you’ll also get enough ice melt for large-scale applications. 

What’s more, the ice melt starts working immediately on contact attributable to a powerful formulation that gives the pellets powerful heat distribution. What’s more, the ice melt works at very low temperatures, and it is safe for your driveway, grass, car, pets, and garden plants.

 

Pellets of Fire – The Ultimate Ice Melt Review

 

Is Rock Salt Safe For Plants?

In this blog post, we will discuss rock salt safe for plants. Rock salt contains sodium and chloride, which can be harmful to your garden if you use it incorrectly. You should avoid using rock salt on fruit trees, shrubs, or other ornamental trees with sensitive bark and leaves because the salts may cause damage to their tissues. Again, if you have a pregnant woman or animal near your garden, it is not recommended to use rock salt because the fumes may cause distress.

However, this doesn’t mean that you can never use rock salt for plants. It has been said that using rock salt on the soil will help some types of plants grow better in cold weather and discourage others from growing at all. Rock salt should be applied sparingly as too much could actually inhibit plant growth instead of enhancing it.

 

How Do I Use Rock Salt Without Damaging My Plants?

There are various ways to use rock salt without damaging your plants. For example, if you want to keep deer away from your garden beds that are in the ground, try sprinkling some rock salt on top of them before putting down mulch or other protective coverings. You can also sprinkle it along the edge of a brick or stone wall where deer may be trying to jump over and eat all your delicious flowers.

If you have plants that need a little bit more protection than what is available at ground level, such as cucumbers planted on an elevated terrace bed, then consider using large bags of rock salt instead of individual containers when fertilizing with fertilizer salts. This will help protect against potential damage because the plant won’t come into contact with any harmful chemicals when the fertilizer salts are being applied.

 

Which Ice Melt Won’t Kill My Plants?

There’re various types of rock salt you can use that won’t damage your plants. For example, ice melt pellets are usually made from magnesium chloride, which is safe for most plants and doesn’t cause any kind of harm to the soil or surrounding flora. You should also look for products labeled as “organic” because they will not contain sodium chloride, which may be harmful if used incorrectly.

Also, if you want to keep your garden beds from freezing, try adding some rock salt into the soil before planting. Rock salt will help break down any ice that may form and provide a layer of protection for vulnerable plants in cold weather conditions. Before using any kind of chemical on your plants, please make sure they are safe by reading the label first.

 

How Do I Know Rock Salt Is Killing My Plants?

There are tell-tale signs your plants are being harmed by rock salt. For example, if you notice yellowing leaves or wilted flowers and foliage, your plants may be in trouble. Large amounts of sodium chloride can also hurt the plant’s overall health, which will make it more vulnerable to disease and insect infestations.

If you think one of your plants is struggling due to a chemical reaction from chemicals such as rock salt, try moving it away from other affected plants, so it isn’t exposed any further and discard all products that could potentially cause harm quickly before they do more damage.

 

Tips on Preventing Rock Salt from Killing My Plants

To avoid rock salt from killing your plants, try to keep the amount of sodium chloride as low as possible. For instance, if you have a pregnant woman or animal near your garden, it is not recommended to use rock salt because the fumes may cause distress.

If you want to keep deer away from your garden beds that are in the ground, try sprinkling some rock salt on top of them before putting down mulch or other protective coverings. You can also sprinkle it along the edge of a brick or stone wall where deer may be trying to jump over and eat all your delicious flowers.

To avoid harming any microorganisms living in the soil surrounding plant roots while using ice melt pellets without damaging nearby plants, make sure they label their product “organic.”

Is Rock Salt Safe For Plants?

Wicked Snow & Ice Melter Review

If you are searching for a snow and ice melter ideal for both residential and commercial applications, Wicked Snow and Ice Melter may be the ice melter for you. The ice melter is a mid-to-high grade with added calcium to kick-start ice/snow melting in dry cold weather. 

Wicked Snow and Ice Melter is already popular for many things ranging from its safety on plants (because of added CMA) to safety on surfaces like concrete and effectiveness at low temperatures. 

How Wicked Snow and Ice Melter Works

The ice melter draws moisture from its environment. With ingredients like added calcium, the ice melter kick-starts the ice melting process almost immediately, even in cold dry conditions. Wicked Snow & Ice melter works at temperatures as low as –15 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Other notable aspects include a patented blue tint that shows you where the product is already applied. This feature eliminates over-application, which in turn offers cost-saving benefits.

Main Product Highlights: What are the Benefits of Wicked Snow and Ice Melter?

What are the benefits of Wicked Snow & Ice melter? Why does the ice melter stand out?

Quality: The ice melt is made of pure CMA (Calcium Magnesium Acetate) pellets which are proven to be more effective than regular rock salt, urea, or potassium chloride. Wicked Snow & Ice melter has also been formulated to leave ZERO residue. 

Ease of use: The product comes in user-friendly packaging that makes it easy to apply and store the product. 

The ice melter will begin working on contact in low temperatures. To avoid over-application, the product has a blue tint that forms after application. What’s more, the ice melter has been designed to work in cold and dry weather.

Safety: The product is safe for pets. Also, the formulation won’t harm vegetation (plants and grass) or damage surfaces like concrete. CMA is biodegradable and non-toxic to the environment, pets, plants, metal, and concrete while still being effective in melting ice.

Working temperature: Works in temperatures as low as –15 degrees Fahrenheit.

Universal application: Wicked Snow has been designed to work on sidewalks, driveways, steps, stairs, pathways, patios, and many other places that tend to accumulate snow/ice.

Shelf-life: Wicked Snow ice melter has prolonged shelf life. This product will last well in storage and doesn’t lose its effectiveness even when it is exposed to air.

Available in a variety of packages: You can buy Wicked Snow and Ice Melter in a 20-lbs, or 50 lbs bag. The ice melter is also sold in a 50-lbs bucket. Different sizes allow for flexible application, transportation, and storage. 

Made in America by a renowned ice and snow melting manufacturer: Wicked snow and Ice Melter is manufactured by NorthRock Minerals – a company that has been making premium American products for snow and ice removal since 1993. 

North Rock has strategic partnerships with the biggest producer of calcium chloride pellets. The company has also invested in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in New Jersey that ensures a constant supply of high-quality products. Unlike other ice and snow removal product manufacturers, NorthRock has what it takes to develop the highest-quality products. 

Verdict

Wicked snow and Ice Melter has a high-quality formulation composed of ingredients like pure CMA proven to be more effective than rock salt and comes with other notable benefits like ZERO residue. 

The ice melter is also easy to use with unique features like a blue hint that prevents over-application. What’s more, you don’t have to worry about harming your plants, grass, pets, or driveway. The ice melter is tested and proven to be safe. The working temperature is also ideal at –15 degrees Fahrenheit, and you don’t have to worry about storage since the ice melt isn’t affected by exposure to air. 

Wicked Snow & Ice Melter reviews online are also overwhelmingly positive. Almost everyone who has bought and uses the product loves it. Keep ice and snow from forming this winter using a tried and tested ice melter – Wicked Snow and Ice Melter.

Wicked Snow & Ice Melter Review

Ice Melt vs. Rock Salt:

Tips and Hacks

There is a big difference between ice melt and rock salt, but not many people know what it is. Rock salt is less expensive than ice melt, which saves you money in the long run if you have to use it often. It also melts at lower temperatures than ice does, which can be helpful during those cold winter months. But that’s not all! In this blog post, we will talk about 11 things you should know before deciding whether to purchase one product over the other.

 

The Ultimate Guide to Ice Melt vs. Rock Salt: Tips and Hacks

 

What is Ice Melt?

Ice melt is a salt-based product that freezes below the temperature of the water. It is typically used in ice and snow conditions to provide traction on icy surfaces, but it needs to be reapplied every day depending on how much precipitation falls during the winter months.

 

Types of Ice Melt

Several different types of ice melt on the market, and each one has its benefits. Some are more cost-effective than others, some provide better traction than others, so it’s important to know what you need before making a purchase decision. At NorthRock Minerals, we produce various ice melt products, including Wicked Snow & Ice Melter, Keep It Gree Snow & Ice Melter, and Snow of Fire Calcium Chloride Pellets. Check out our product page for information on our products.

 

What is Rock Salt?

Rock salt comes in large chunks that are not ground up. This makes it less expensive than ice melt and provides a lower level of traction on icy surfaces. It does have the benefit of melting at colder temperatures, though. So if you’re living somewhere where winter temps drop below freezing, then rock salt might be your best bet for getting through snow conditions without too much hassle.

 

Types of Rock Salt

The Rock salt use to melt ice, and snow is typically ground up to make it easier for the salt crystals to dissolve in water. However, there are some benefits of using larger chunks instead of finely ground rock salt. Some people prefer large pieces because they don’t have an unpleasant taste like finer rock salts do, and others say that you need less than with produce-ground rocks so your supply can last through a long winter season.

 

Tips on How to Pick between Ice Melt vs. Rock Salt

There is no one answer to which product will work best for everyone since each person has their own unique needs when choosing between ice melt or rock salt.

 

If you live in an area where winters get cold, then rock salt might be more helpful for melting ice without having to worry about it freezing again.

 

But live in an area where there is a lot of precipitation that falls during the winter months. Ice melt might be better for preventing your sidewalk and driveway from becoming too icy for foot traffic or vehicles.

 

The main question you need to ask yourself is, “How much precipitation falls during winter months?” If it’s a lot, then ice melt will be the better pick. But if there’s not too much rain or snowfall during those cold days and nights in January through March, then rock salt might work just as well for your needs.

 

If I have any other questions about these products, feel free to reach out. We’ll be more than happy to answer them for you.

 

We hope that this blog post has helped answer all of your burning questions on whether or not an Ice Melt vs. Rock Salt product will provide what you need for year-round traction on icy surfaces without costing a fortune throughout the winter months.

 

Ice Melt vs. Rock Salt

 

Ice Melt for Pools

If you are looking for a great way to keep your pool safe and open all year, then ice melt is the answer. Ice melt can be applied differently depending on what type of ice-melt product you use and how much protection you need from winter weather. In this blog post, we will talk about nine types of ice melt products available to find one that meets your needs.

 

9 Types of Ice Melt for Pools

 

Rock salt

This type of ice melt is typically the least expensive. Rock salt works well on decks and walkways outside, but its effectiveness inside a pool depends on how much water it can dissolve. Again, this type of ice melt is the least expensive.

 

Magnesium chloride

This product dissolves quickly and works well on pool water, giving it a nice soft feel as it does not contain any chlorides that can harm your skin or eyes when contacted with water. This type of ice melt also provides excellent protection for outdoor patios and walkways because it stays liquid longer than many other types.

 

However, magnesium chloride must be reapplied more often than rock salt because its effect lasts only about an hour in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-0°C).

 

Potassium chloride

This is another great option for your pool. It is less expensive than the other two options listed here, and it is more effective at colder temperatures. However, potassium chloride does not dissolve quickly in water like magnesium chloride or rock salt do, so you will need to reapply this kind of ice-melt often for best results. Also, potassium chloride is slightly less effective than magnesium chloride at warmer temperatures.

 

Magnesium sulfate

This type of ice melt works well on both decking and pool water, making it a good all-around option for protection against the winter weather. Again, this product does not contain chlorides which can harm your skin or eyes when contacted with water.

 

Frostline

This type of ice melt comes with a polymer that protects for up to four weeks at 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-0°C). This product dissolves more slowly, so you’ll need less maintenance if using this option because reapplying may be required multiple times per day or week depending on weather conditions.

 

Additionally, frostline’s ability to stay liquid longer makes it ideal for areas where regular snow plowing occurs, such as driveways and walkways near pools or decks. The downside? Frostline can get costly when applied at higher levels.

 

Calcium chloride 

While this type of ice melt is less expensive than frontline, calcium chloride does not work well on the pool water. Calcium chloride works best for walkways and decks because it melts faster, which makes reapplication necessary about once per hour in temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-0°C).

 

Sodium acetate

This ice melt for pools is the most expensive. However, it does work well on the pool water and provides long-lasting protection for about four weeks at 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-0°C)

 

Potassium Acetate

Potassium acetate has a similar effect to sodium acetate but is less expensive.

 

Magnesium Acetate

This product also works well on the pool water and provides long-lasting protection for about four weeks at 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-0°C). It can be applied differently because it comes as flakes, granules, or pellets depending on what you are looking for.

 

Like many of the other types of ice melt that work best with pools, this one does not contain chlorides, harming your skin or eyes when contacted with water. Additionally, magnesium acetate has some benefits over calcium chloride, such as combining liquid and solid forms into a single product, so they don’t have to be reapplied separately.

 

At NorthRock Minerals, we produce some of the market’s best ice melt for pools. We offer our ice melt in a variety of package sizes and types to best suit your needs. Check out our products today and find out why we’re the best option for your pool.

Ice Melt for Pools

How to Store Ice Melt in the Summer

 

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to get your ice melt stored for the season. But wait, where should you store your ice melt? How much do I need? And what kind of storage containers should I use? These are all questions that we answer in our blog post today.

 

10 Ways to Store Ice Melt for the Summer

There are a few different ways that you can store ice melt for the summer months, and we’re here to help you find out what is best for your needs.

If you live in an area where there’s a lot of snow or harsh winters, then it may be necessary for you to take some more precautions with storing your ice melts. Here are 11 tips on how to do just that:

• Store in buckets rather than bags – This will avoid any spills from melting chunks of ice being left behind when eventually they defrost later this year.
• Put them outside if possible – If not, put them as far away from anything flammable inside so that they don’t start a fire.
• Use food-grade containers – These are great for containing the ice because they are airtight and will keep it from freezing together.
• Store in a cool, dark place – If you can’t store outside, then make sure that your storage area is somewhere where there’s no artificial light or direct sunlight. This includes garage spaces with lights on inside.
• Avoid storing near anything warm – Avoid areas like garages that may be warmer than what people would consider comfortable.
• Invest in some polyethylene sheets to lay over top of the containers if possible- Especially for larger amounts of ice melt so that you don’t have to worry about any issues of melting along the way
• Don’t forget to cover them up! – Covering your container is always recommended as this will help protect against UV rays and moisture, which can cause the ice to thaw and start melting
• Cover with a tarp or something else – Covering your container is always recommended as this will help protect against UV rays and moisture, which can cause the ice to thaw and start melting.
• Place in a shaded area- This should be done for any storage outside too. Shadows provide relief from the sunshine on hot days, so avoid storing anything that has meltable components near an area of direct sunlight.
• Store containers off the ground- Ice mixtures are heavy when they’re frozen, so you want to make sure that they don’t get stuck here if it starts to defrost.

 

How Do I Know My Ice Melt Is Stored Safely?

While it may seem like a daunting task to store ice melt for the summer, with these handy tips, you won’t have any problems. To know if your ice melt is stored safely, start by keeping them as far away from anything that could cause a fire or being exposed to direct sunlight and other sources of heat. If they’re not close to either, then chances are you’ll be just fine! Now go enjoy this spring weather while it lasts because before we know it, the snow will come back around again, and those hot sunny days will disappear until next year.

 

Can Ice Melt Go Bad?

Ice melts are not an item that will spoil, but rather they become less useful over time. The best way to tell if your ice melt has gone bad is its texture or consistency. If you can’t scoop any out with a shovel and instead have to use something like a trowel, then chances are someone spilled some water in there, which makes it unusable for melting snow/ice on contact.

How to Store Ice Melt in the Summer

 

Can I melt ice without ice melt?

 

The chilly winter months are finally here, and you may find yourself with a need to melt ice. But what if you do not have any ice melt? Do not fret. There are other ways that can be used to get the job done. In this blog post, we will discuss how to use alternative materials instead of ice melt for melting ice on your walkway or driveway.

 

How to Melt Ice without Ice Melt

 

Pour boiling water over your ice for instantaneous melting.

Boiling water will melt ice instantly. This is a good option for when the weather outside is below freezing, and there’s not enough time to add salt or other material on top of the ice before it freezes again.

 

The boiling water will also seep into cracks in between your walkway, making sure that no cold air can get through and create more layers of ice underneath from which you have to meet them as well. If you are looking for an alternative heating method, try using a space heater instead if possible since this would be less expensive than electricity bill-wise in most cases, but boil some water just in case it gets too cold out.

 

You could also use heat lamps to keep the area warm so snow does not accumulate.

When we’re talking about alternative methods for melting ice, heat lamps might be the next logical step. These are especially useful in areas that will see snow accumulating over time, such as parking lots and driveways where cars would otherwise need to slide around on top of the icy surface.

 

Use salt!

The third method we wanted to discuss was using rock salt instead of regular table salt, which most people may already have at home anyway since it can also be used when cooking food. Rock salt has more granules than other types, so this makes it perfect for spreading onto slippery surfaces like your driveway or walkway before they get too icy from the cold weather outside. Once again, it is worth mentioning that this may not be your best bet if you have pets or children since they can easily pick up the salt.

 

Spray down the area with a hose or sprinkler

Spraying down the area with a hose or sprinkler is another option for melting ice without using any chemicals. This will not do anything about existing layers of ice on your surfaces, but it can help get rid of new snow that has fallen overnight and turned to ice in some cases.

 

Melt adjacent snow-covered areas

Another suggestion we have if you are looking for more ways to melt snow would be to use an adjacent, uncovered surface such as a lawn space where there is no snow present yet, which could eventually accumulate when winter weather gets here. You may want this as a backup plan just in case none of the other methods work out well enough.

 

Use a hairdryer to melt the ice around your car tires while avoiding any flammable objects nearby.

This is another simple yet effective way to melt ice. If you are looking for something that will have an instant effect, a hairdryer can be used around the tires of your vehicle or other objects in order to prevent them from becoming stuck on top of new layers of ice and snowfall over time.

 

Combine rubbing alcohol and dish soap into a spray bottle and use it as an alternate de-icer for slippery surfaces like sidewalks, stairs, etc.

A combination of rubbing alcohol and dish soap can also be used as an alternate de-icer for slippery surfaces like sidewalks, stairs, etc. This works well because both liquids are flammable, so you will need to make sure that the area is clear of any objects which may catch fire or otherwise get damaged from the heat produced by this mixture.

 

Add a layer of sand on top of your ice before it freezes again.

Another option we wanted to share was adding a layer of sand onto your ice surface prior to freezing, if possible. If not, then try using gravel instead since it might work just as well in most cases whenever there’s enough room underneath for this material to go under the snow and rest on top of the ground surrounding it without being disturbed.

 

Can I melt ice without ice melt?

 

The Best Ice Melt for Roofs:

What to Consider

When winter is in full swing, there’s nothing more you’ll want to do than curl up at home for a few hours with a warm drink and watch the snowfall. But if your roof gets covered in ice, it can be an expensive headache waiting to happen. Here are some important considerations when choosing ice melt for roofs that will help keep your roof safe this winter.

The Best Ice Melt for Roofs: What to Consider

Choose a product that is environmentally friendly and safe for pets and kids.

You want to make sure that you’re choosing a product for your environmentally friendly and safe roof for pets or kids. If it’s in the winter, then there will likely be snow, which means salt can interact with sunlight to create toxic fumes.

There are also products available such as calcium chloride ices melt pellets and magnesium chloride ice melt granules. These chemicals react differently when they come into contact with water, so make sure you do some research before buying one over another just because one is cheaper than the other.

How much does it cost?

The price of an ice melt varies depending on the product. Still, if you buy in bulk, usually more than 25 pounds at once, the price per pound decreases significantly (especially if you buy more than 50 pounds).

What’s in this stuff?

Some people may feel uneasy about buying an unknown chemical or mixture without knowing exactly what it is in case the material should end up being toxic.

A good idea is to look for ice melt products that have been certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so you know they are safe. It’s also worth noting if the product contains any salt because some states require a permit before using it on your roof and could even find you or take away your license to do business in their state.

Is this stuff safe?

When it comes to safety, some products contain propylene glycol or urea, which can be toxic. If you’re concerned about these ingredients, it might be worth looking into a product with them in the list of ingredients and deciding if they don’t bother your family members before buying one.

Make sure to keep ice melt away from any vegetation on your roof because those chemicals can cause damage over time as well. It’s also not advised for people who have pets such as cats or birds since their claws could get caught in any little holes along the edge of your roof and make walking difficult when coated by snow or slushy water. If you choose an ice melt containing salt, then make sure you’re aware of the possible side effects such as dry skin, asthma attacks, or even a heart attack if someone has preexisting health conditions.

Will the stuff react with your roofing material?

You don’t want to use an ice melt that will react with your roofing material and damage it. If you have a metal roof, you’ll want to make sure the product is specifically for aluminum or steel because otherwise, it could create rust on the surface which can be costly to repair in time.

If you have cement shingles, there’s no need to worry about this particular problem. Still, if they’re clay-based, it might not work so well given their porous nature, which means dirt and other particles would get trapped inside them when using salt as the ice melting agent instead of being washed away by rainwater happens with asphalt shingles.

How much area does my roof cover?

Lastly, think about how large your house is and how much the roof needs to be covered. If you have a large house, then it might take more than one box or bag, so make sure you consider that before buying too little product at first because it could end up not being enough if your calculations are off.

The Best Ice Melts For Roofs

Which ice melt is best for concrete?

This article is going to discuss the best ice melt for concrete. It’s important that you know what will work before you buy it and start spraying, or else your driveway could be a mess! Our goal here is to help you find the right product to turn your concrete into a skating rink. So, Which ice melt is best for concrete?

The Best Ice Melt for Concrete

Calcium chloride

This ice melt is one of the best for concrete. It is corrosive, so it will do a great job at breaking up ice and snow. The only thing that can be bad about calcium chloride is that it might kill your lawn or grass if it gets too close. That’s why we recommend using this product sparingly to avoid killing any plants in your yard.

Rock salt 

This is another one of the best products for treating concrete because it works wonders on icy sidewalks! It’s also low in price compared to other types of salts out there. This makes rock salt a popular choice among homeowners who need help with their driveway this winter season. There really aren’t many cons about using rock salt as an ice melt for your property. It works very well and comes at an affordable cost. However, we recommend you wear gloves if you plan to handle the product because its natural salt can damage your skin.

Sodium chloride 

This product is a good choice for concrete and sidewalks because it’s affordable and easy to find at most hardware stores. The only thing that people don’t like about this ice melt type is the corrosiveness. That’s why we recommend using caution when applying sodium chloride as an ice-melt treatment for these surfaces around your home. Otherwise, you’ll end up with stains all over them from corrosion.

Magnesium chloride

This is another one of the best ice melts for concrete that you can use. It’s a little bit more expensive than other types. But it also does a great job at getting rid of snow and ice! The only thing about magnesium chloride is that if you have plants in your yard – this product may kill them. So you need to be careful when using it around those areas. Other than that, though, magnesium chloride has been known to work wonders on sidewalks or driveways without too many negative effects.

Urea-based ices melt

These are biodegradable and are often used in city parks, sidewalks, and parking lots. They do an excellent job at keeping ice from forming on concrete surfaces as well! That’s why they’re a great option for areas that see heavy snowfall or just regular icy conditions throughout the year – because urea-based products work really well with this type of climate.

Potassium acetate-based ice melts

This is one of the best products to use if you’re looking for something a little bit more affordable. It works with most surfaces, and it also does an amazing job at preventing ice from forming on concrete! The only thing about this type of product is that it can leave stains in areas where snow or ice melts into your property – so make sure you don’t let any melt onto your patio or flooring because those areas are susceptible to staining.

There really isn’t just one specific kind of ice melt when it comes to treating vertical surfaces like concrete. There are many different types out there, but they all have their pros and cons depending on how often you want them applied and what damage might occur. That’s why it is important to research which type of salt or ice-melt you would like on your property, and then choose one that will work best with the size of the area you have.

Which ice melt is best for concrete?

What Chemical Melts Ice the Fastest?

We all know that ice can be dangerous to have on the roads, sidewalks, and walkways. It is slippery, and it causes accidents. But what’s worse than having a foot of ice buildup in your driveway? Having to break through it with an ax! What Chemical Melts Ice the Fastest? In this post, we will explore which chemical melts ice the fastest.

What Chemical Melts Ice the Fastest?

Calcium Chloride Ice Melt

This is the best and most used chemical to melt ice. It is a salt that can be found in either solid or liquid form. It comes from the same family as table salt, which means you are probably already having this ingredient around your house.

According to research has shown, one pound of calcium chloride will produce about 260 gallons worth of de-icing solution mixed with water. Calcium chloride also makes it great for use on driveways and sidewalks with its fast-acting properties because they freeze first.

How Effective is Calcium Chloride in Ice Melting

This chemical is very effective when used in large quantities. It will only take about five to ten minutes before you can walk over a patch of snow without slipping and sliding your way through all the icy patches. This chemical also has an anti-corrosive property which means it doesn’t create any salt stains underneath where it was applied.

Potassium Chloride

The next best thing after Calcium Chloride would be potassium chloride (KCl). This type of chemical melts ice just as well but does not have the same “instant” effects as Calcium Chloride. It also has the disadvantage of not being as effective on driveways and sidewalks. This is because it doesn’t start to melt the snow right away, instead of melting over a more extended period.

Calcium Chloride vs. Potassium Chloride: Which Is Better?

Both work wonderfully in their way, but potassium chloride does have some disadvantages that can make it less desirable for certain situations. For this reason, most people choose calcium (CaCl) when they need something really quick. But there are times where you might want to use KCl, such as if your driveway or sidewalk is extensive and requires more than just one application of ice-melt chemicals. This type of chemical will last longer before needing another round. So you won’t have to worry about your pathway being slippery ever again.

NorthRock Minerals’ Pellets of Fire- Calcium Chloride Pellets

This product is among the best because it is cheaper than other options and easier to use. Simply sprinkle the pellets on the icy surfaces, and they will start melting instantly. You don’t have to worry about carrying around a jug of ice-melt chemicals or lugging out your hose to spray down an area because these granulated calcium chloride pellets are more convenient.

NorthRock Minerals has been in the industry for years, producing high-quality products that can be seen and used worldwide. They have spent a lot of time and money in research to come up with safe, reliable chemicals for de-icing purposes.

Why Choose NorthRock Minerals’ Products?

Their calcium chloride pellets melt ice much faster than most chemical de-icers. This makes them perfect for applications to driveways or sidewalks because they freeze first due to exposure.

The company’s products are also very affordable and convenient because you can simply sprinkle the pellets anywhere without having to carry around a jug of ice-melt chemicals or lug out your hose.

Apart from calcium chloride, NorthRock minerals also produce various other chemicals, such as potassium chloride and sodium acetate. Check out their website for more information on the products they offer.

 

Does Ice Melt Damage Concrete?

Are you considering using an ice melter to melt the ice and snow but you are worried about damaging your concrete? In this post, we’ll discuss whether or not ice melt damages concrete. Let’s get to it:

Does Ice Melt Damage Concrete?

Ice melt rarely causes concrete damage. However, there are some cases in which it can cause damage. Below, we look at the different ice melt products and how they may damage concrete.

Calcium Chloride

When used for prolonged periods, this product may attack the metal rebar in concrete and cause rusting. This can also happen if used excessively or applied to the ground and not allowed to dry before snowfall begins. Also, if you use calcium chloride in an area that’s not wet, it can cause the concrete to heave. Calcium Chloride may also discolor concrete if used excessively or not allowed to dry before snowfall begins.

Potassium Chloride

This product does an excellent job at melting ice and will usually cause no damage if applied correctly. However, potassium chloride can be damaging if the concrete has been heavily stained with grease, fertilizer, oil, or other chemicals that are prone to leaching through concrete.

Magnesium Chloride

Magnesium Chloride can cause concrete damage if it interacts with salt, which increases its corrosive properties. It should also not be used in an area where the ground has been contaminated by oil, gasoline, fuel oils, and solvents. These substances may react to Magnesium Chloride’s acidic compounds and dissolve the surface of your concrete slab.

Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA)

This is applied at intervals of about six inches and allowed to dry before snowfall starts again. Do not spray it on a surface when it’s below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This causes some chemical reactions, resulting in damage to concrete surfaces or structures like guardrails made from steel, aluminum, or plastic. If you’re using CMA for very brief periods followed by periodic applications – as short as 15 minutes- after each application is complete, then there won’t likely be any long-term damage.

How do you melt ice without damaging concrete?

The best to use ice melt without damaging concrete is by choosing a product that is great for use on concrete. And, when in doubt, it’s best to ask the manufacturer if their recommendation will work with your type of surface before using the ice melt product.

Ensure the ice melt dries off before it snows again. This is because snow will cause an uneven surface. And always apply ice melt in intervals of about six inches and wait at least three hours between applications.

As noted earlier, however, concrete damage by ice melt is rare. It only happens when you expose the concrete surface to ice melt for long periods. But in some cases, this can happen, and the damage will be limited to discoloration or rusting- but only when calcium chloride is used with improper application techniques. Most of the time, concrete damage happens due to the freezing/thaw cycle. But, the rate of damage is significantly less with a concrete overlay.

You can reduce concrete damage by using top-quality ice melt products. At NorthRock Minerals, we offer a wide variety of concrete overlays and ice melt products perfect for the winter. Our snow and ice melting products are extensively tested and approved for use on various surfaces.

We have been in the industry for years, producing best-in-class products. We guarantee 100% customer satisfaction on all orders. Whatever ice melt needs you have got, we have you covered. Get in touch with us today to find the right ice melt products for your home.

Does Ice Melt Damage Concrete?

 

Can I melt ice without ice melt?

 

The chilly winter months are finally here, and you may find yourself with a need to melt ice. But what if you do not have any ice melt? Do not fret. There are other ways that can be used to get the job done. In this blog post, we will discuss how to use alternative materials instead of ice melt for melting ice on your walkway or driveway.

 

How to Melt Ice without Ice Melt

 

Pour boiling water over your ice for instantaneous melting.

Boiling water will melt ice instantly. This is a good option for when the weather outside is below freezing, and there’s not enough time to add salt or other material on top of the ice before it freezes again.

The boiling water will also seep into cracks in between your walkway, making sure that no cold air can get through and create more layers of ice underneath from which you have to meet them as well. If you are looking for an alternative heating method, try using a space heater instead if possible since this would be less expensive than electricity bill-wise in most cases, but boil some water just in case it gets too cold out.

 

You could also use heat lamps to keep the area warm so snow does not accumulate.

When we’re talking about alternative methods for melting ice, heat lamps might be the next logical step. These are especially useful in areas that will see snow accumulating over time, such as parking lots and driveways where cars would otherwise need to slide around on top of the icy surface.

 

Use salt!

The third method we wanted to discuss was using rock salt instead of regular table salt, which most people may already have at home anyway since it can also be used when cooking food. Rock salt has more granules than other types, so this makes it perfect for spreading onto slippery surfaces like your driveway or walkway before they get too icy from the cold weather outside. Once again, it is worth mentioning that this may not be your best bet if you have pets or children since they can easily pick up the salt.

 

Spray down the area with a hose or sprinkler

Spraying down the area with a hose or sprinkler is another option for melting ice without using any chemicals. This will not do anything about existing layers of ice on your surfaces, but it can help get rid of new snow that has fallen overnight and turned to ice in some cases.

 

Melt adjacent snow-covered areas

Another suggestion we have if you are looking for more ways to melt snow would be to use an adjacent, uncovered surface such as a lawn space where there is no snow present yet, which could eventually accumulate when winter weather gets here. You may want this as a backup plan just in case none of the other methods work out well enough.

 

Use a hairdryer to melt the ice around your car tires while avoiding any flammable objects nearby.

This is another simple yet effective way to melt ice. If you are looking for something that will have an instant effect, a hairdryer can be used around the tires of your vehicle or other objects in order to prevent them from becoming stuck on top of new layers of ice and snowfall over time.

 

Combine rubbing alcohol and dish soap into a spray bottle and use it as an alternate de-icer for slippery surfaces like sidewalks, stairs, etc.

A combination of rubbing alcohol and dish soap can also be used as an alternate de-icer for slippery surfaces like sidewalks, stairs, etc. This works well because both liquids are flammable, so you will need to make sure that the area is clear of any objects which may catch fire or otherwise get damaged from the heat produced by this mixture.

 

Add a layer of sand on top of your ice before it freezes again.

Another option we wanted to share was adding a layer of sand onto your ice surface prior to freezing, if possible. If not, then try using gravel instead since it might work just as well in most cases whenever there’s enough room underneath for this material to go under the snow and rest on top of the ground surrounding it without being disturbed.

Can I melt ice without ice melt?