The Hardware Man - Differences in Ice Melt

Hello Folks,

Old Man Winter made his appearance on Sunday, December 21 at 10:03 AM. The shortest amount of daylight in this part of the world. I find the weather that comes at this time of year to be of interest, especially as we experience the snow belt that runs along Interstate 80. We live well south of the interstate and often review two different forecasts as we plan for our week.

The subject of rock salt and the benefits of one type over another is discussed regularly at our hardware store. We can dive deep into the topic to those interested or keep it simple as we may ask a few questions to the customer to suggest the best product for them.

Rock Salt, Sodium Chloride, (NaCl) is a generally clean abundant product that lowers the freezing temperature of water to 5° Fahrenheit. It is used regularly to treat roads and sidewalks and can aid in traction. Rock salt is coarser granules often with mineral impurities that don’t make it into our food supply. Due to its abundance and ease of production, it is lowest in price. It is most effective at temperatures down to 15°F.

Calcium Chloride (CaCl‚ ) is an effective deicer with a lower melting temperature. It is an exothermic compound that generates heat to melt snow and ice. It is best used on a thin layer of snow and ice, as melting water is part of the domino effect in the snow removal process. It is fast acting and the small quick melting flakes are not as harsh as rock salt, offering a safer alternative when around pets. Calcium Chloride’s freezing point is at -25°F

Magnesium Chloride (MgCl‚ ) is least corrosive to concrete, metal and vegetation. It is a hydroscopic compound, absorbing moisture in the air to lower the freezing temperature and is effective to -13°F. It can take longer to melt ice and snow but is less toxic to the environment.

All these compounds can be mixed for a wider range of effective treatments, balancing cost and benefits. Often dyes are added to give a visual reference of where application was made. Other than the visibility, there is no added benefit to coloring of the ice melt.

Depending on weather conditions, one ice melter may be better than another. Understanding how each product behaves differently can set realistic expectations, prevent wasteful spending through efficient use, and help avoid accidental harm to surfaces, plants, or pets.

In looking forward to the heat of summer, salt is also used for making hand churned ice cream. We’ll write that article in a few months.

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Daniel Karns and his wife own Clintonville Hardware & Rental along with other businesses. Join the discussion by contacting him at info@clintonvillehardware.com.