Ice Melt Salt Tips: Avoid Common Mistakes and Stay Safe This Winter

Ice Melt Salt Tips: Avoid Common Mistakes and Stay Safe This Winter
In winter, managing snow and ice on driveways, sidewalks, and entryways becomes important to preventing accidents and maintaining accessibility. The right use of ice melt salt and bulk road salt products can reduce slip-and-fall risks and prevent property damage. On the other hand, the wrong product use or application can lead to the product not working as intended, environmental harm, and unnecessary expenses.
Laura Rose is a writer for Akomplice, a Marketing Company and Marketing Technology Agency located in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Common Ice Melt Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Here are five common mistakes and tips to avoid them:
1. Not Using Ice Melt
Skipping ice melt to save time or money can result in dangerous ice buildup. Even after shoveling, thin layers of ice can remain, creating hazards. Using ice melt products helps prevent refreezing and reduces accident risks, often saving money in the long run by avoiding costly injuries or repairs.
2. Using Too Much Ice Melt
Excessive ice melt use can damage landscapes, corrode concrete, and waste product. Many products are designed for effective use in small amounts. To ensure proper application:
Use a spreader for even distribution.
Select products with color indicators to monitor coverage.
Follow manufacturer guidelines for application rates.
3. Incorrect Application Methods
The wrong use can limit the effectiveness of ice melt products. For best results:
Apply ice melt salt before freezing to prevent ice bonding.
Clear snow from surfaces before applying ice melt.
Use tools like handheld or walk-behind spreaders for even coverage.
4. Using the Wrong Product
Not all ice melt or bulk road salt products are the same. Choosing the right one for your needs ensures efficiency and minimizes environmental impact. For example:
Calcium chloride: Effective in extreme cold (down to -25°F).
Magnesium chloride: Works at low temperatures and is less harmful to vegetation.
Sodium chloride (rock salt): Cost-effective but less effective in extreme cold.
Consulting product labels or experts can help identify the best solution for specific conditions.
5. Not Cleaning Up Residue
Residual ice melt can be tracked indoors, causing messes and potential damage to flooring. To minimize issues:
Place mats at entry points.
Clean residue promptly using appropriate cleaning products.
Regularly mop or vacuum to prevent buildup.
Selecting the Right Products for Your Property
Choosing the right ice melt is critical for safety, cost efficiency, and environmental care. Options include:
Bulk Road Salt: Ideal for large areas such as driveways and parking lots. Its coarse grains provide extended melting action.
Purple Heat Ice Melt: Works in subzero temperatures with color indicators for easy monitoring.
Ice Bomb Ice Melt: Rapidly melts thick ice layers and minimizes refreezing.
Polar Ice Melt: Combines effective melting with eco-friendly, pet-safe ingredients, protecting plants and hardscapes.
These ice melt salt and bulk road salt products come in various quantities to suit both residential and commercial needs. Consulting with knowledgeable staff can help match the right product to your property’s requirements.
Pro Tips for Winter Maintenance
Follow these tips to maximize winter safety and efficiency:
Pre-Treat Surfaces: Applying ice melt before a storm prevents ice from bonding.
Combine with Shoveling: Clear snow to expose surfaces for better ice melt performance.
Seal Hardscapes: Protect concrete and bricks with commercial sealants to reduce freeze-thaw damage. Use concrete safe ice melts if this is a concern.
Store Properly: Keep ice melt in dry, sealed containers to maintain effectiveness.
Monitor Weather: Adjust de-icing strategies based on forecasted conditions. Check The National Weather Service’s website to monitor these conditions.
Where to Find Quality Products
Finding reliable ice melt solutions can simplify winter maintenance. Local suppliers offer expert guidance and a range of products tailored to regional needs. For Utah residents, centers like Kilgore’s Salt Lake Landscape Center supply diverse de-icing solutions, including bulk road salt, eco-friendly blends, and pet-safe options.
Stay prepared this winter by selecting the right products and applying them correctly. With the right tools and practices, managing winter hazards becomes more straightforward and easy.
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