If you’re looking for an effective way to melt snow on your driveway or sidewalk, salt for snow melting is the answer. This product is designed to lower the freezing point of water, effectively melting the snow and preventing it from forming ice. But before buying any salt for snow melting, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, it is important to know the temperature range that the salt is effective in. Some salts may only work in mild temperatures, while others are designed to work in extreme cold. You should consider the climate of your area and choose a salt that is suitable for your needs.
Another factor to consider is the environmental impact of the salt. Some salts can be harmful to wildlife and vegetation, so it is important to choose an eco-friendly option. You should also be aware of any local regulations on the use of salt for snow melting and follow them accordingly.
If you are still unsure about which salt for snow melting to choose, ask yourself these questions. What type of surface do I need to melt snow on? How severe is the snow and ice buildup in my area? What is my budget for snow melting products? By answering these questions, you can make an informed decision on which salt for snow melting will work best for you.
10 Best Salt For Snow Melting
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Ideal for professional and contractor use, spreading salt and ice melt with its 80-pound poly hopper.
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Ideal for spreading ice melt on walkways and driveways with ease, efficiency, and precise control.
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This product is ideal for melting ice on sidewalks, driveways, decks, and concrete in a pet-friendly and efficient manner.
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Ideal for spreading salt on driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots during winter months to prevent ice build-up.
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This eco-friendly ice melt is safe for pets, non-corrosive, and ideal for clearing snow from driveways and sidewalks.
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It is ideal for melting ice and snow on driveways, sidewalks, and other surfaces while being safe for pets.
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The product is ideal for ensuring safety by melting snow on residential stairways during winter.
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Ideal for heating driveways made of concrete, asphalt, or pavers with an automatic moisture and temperature activation system.
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The product is ideal for spreading materials such as seeds, fertilizer, salt, and sand over large areas.
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This product is ideal for preventing ice dams and frozen pipes, providing intelligent commercial-grade self-regulating heat cable with a 10-year warranty.
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1. Pro Contractor Salt Spreader – Chapin Blue
Introducing the Heavy-Duty Salt Spreader, the perfect solution for keeping your sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots free of snow and ice. This salt spreader has an 80-pound capacity rust-resistant poly hopper and is supported by a stainless steel frame and T-handle with rubber grips. The enclosed gear system is designed to withstand the elements, making it perfect for use in any weather condition.
This salt spreader is recommended for use with salt, halite, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, and calcium chloride in small and pelletized forms. The gate control and auger are designed to help break up clumps, and the gate lever is conveniently located at the handle instead of on the hopper. The spread pattern can be controlled with fixed rear and adjustable baffles.
The Heavy-Duty Salt Spreader is designed to handle tough terrain, with 12-inch wide-tread, pneumatic tires for stability. It also comes with a rain cover to protect it from the elements. Made in the USA with global materials, this salt spreader comes with a 5-year limited warranty. Please note that it is not recommended for use with rock salt.
- 80-pound capacity rust-resistant poly hopper supported by a stainless steel frame and T-handle with rubber grips
- Enclosed gear system designed to withstand the elements
- Gate control and auger designed to help break up clumps
- Fixed rear and adjustable baffles to control the spread pattern
- 12-inch wide-tread, pneumatic tires for stability
- Comes with a rain cover to protect it from the elements
- Made in the USA with global materials
- 5-year limited warranty
- – Not recommended for use with rock salt
2. Pro Ice Melt Spreader: High Output Control!
The EarthWay Polar Tech Series spreader is a reliable tool that makes snowy days easier. Its large rustproof poly hopper can hold up to 50 pounds (22.68 kg) of rock salt or ice melt, making it perfect for commercial or residential use. You don't have to stop and fill the hopper multiple times, saving you time and effort. Thanks to the high grip 9 inch pneumatic tires, you can easily roll through slush and compacted snow without sliding like plastic wheels. With a 12 foot spread width, you can finish the job in no time. The unique high flow hopper design allows 3" pieces of rock salt to pass through the hopper easily. This spreader comes fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box. You can easily fold up the handle and tighten the hardware for storage. The EarthWay Polar Tech Series spreader is proudly made in Bristol Indiana using locally sourced materials. EarthWay Products offers a one-year limited warranty on all products.
Say goodbye to the hassle of spreading salt and ice melt by hand with the EarthWay Polar Tech Series spreader. Its large hopper, 12-foot spread width, and high flow design makes it a reliable and efficient tool for clearing snow and ice. With its durable construction and American-made quality, you can trust this spreader to last for years to come.
- Large rustproof poly hopper can hold up to 50 pounds (22.68 kg) of rock salt or ice melt
- High grip 9 inch pneumatic tires roll easily through slush and compacted snow
- Unique high flow hopper design allows 3" pieces of rock salt to pass through the hopper
- Fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box
- Proudly made in Bristol Indiana using locally sourced materials
- One-year limited warranty on all products
3. Pet-Friendly Ice Melting Spray: Cover More, Easier!
Protect your outdoor surfaces from the dangers of freezing with this pet-friendly liquid ice melt. This product should be applied up to 24 hours before a freeze to ensure that the area is coated and sealed, effectively preventing ice from forming. With a thin layer over the desired area, you can protect your concrete or brick from freezing down to -30 degrees. This product can also melt ice and prevent it from refreezing, making it ideal for use in a variety of settings.
Unlike rough, abrasive salt crystals or pellets, this liquid ice melt won't harm your pets' paws or damage your floors when tracked inside. It's also mess-free, eliminating the need to worry about crystals or pellets being tracked through your house, office, or business. Simply pour it into any pump sprayer and apply it to your sidewalk, concrete, deck, driveway, or parking lot. It works great for retail stores too!
This pet-friendly ice melt does not have a limited shelf life, so you can store it indefinitely. This means that if you don't use all of your liquid ice melt this winter, you can save it for next winter and avoid wasting money. If you're using a sprayer that's been used for other chores, make sure you clean it thoroughly before use.
With more coverage than a 35 pound bag of salt, our 1 gallon jug of deicer covers more ground or roof. By spraying a thin layer of our ice melt, you can effectively prevent ice buildup for your driveway, deck, sidewalks, and pool area!
- Can prevent ice buildup down to -30 degrees
- Does not harm pets' paws or damage floors
- Easy to apply with a pump sprayer
- Can be stored indefinitely
- Covers more ground than a 35 pound bag of salt
- – May need to reapply after heavy snowfall
- – May not be as effective as salt on extremely icy surfaces
- – Requires a pump sprayer for application
4. Saltdogg Wb400 Professional 200 Lb Capacity Walk Behind Drop Salt Spreader, Black
The drop spreader design of this product is low-to-the-ground, which makes the application process more precise. It is particularly useful in areas with sensitive foliage. The stainless steel construction of the product is durable and the hopper is made of corrosion-free poly material. It has a 2.5 cu. Ft. capacity and can hold up to 200 lb of bagged salt or ice-melt. The control linkage is solid and easy to adjust discharge. Additionally, a metal screen is installed to prevent materials from jamming. The product comes with a plastic rain cover that protects the materials during storage. The spreader is equipped with large 13-inch pneumatic tires for premium stability. This product is made in the USA and has a 1-year warranty.
Overall, this drop spreader is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a precise and efficient way to apply materials. The low-to-the-ground design and the metal screen that prevents material from jamming make it easy to use. The poly hopper is corrosion-free and can handle up to 200 lbs of bagged salt or ice-melt. The rain cover is an added bonus that protects the materials during storage. The large 13-inch pneumatic tires provide stability, making it easier to maneuver the spreader. Finally, the product is backed by a 1-year warranty, which is a testament to its quality.
- Low-to-the-ground design for precise application
- Can handle up to 200 lbs of bagged salt or ice-melt
- Durable stainless steel construction with corrosion-free poly hopper
- Solid control linkage for discharge adjustment
- Metal screen to prevent materials from jamming
- Plastic rain cover included to keep materials dry during storage
- Large 13-inch pneumatic tires for stability
- Backed by a 1-year warranty and made in the USA
5. Pet Safe Eco Ice Melt – Lightweight Coverage
The Pet Friendly Snow Melt is the perfect solution for pet owners who want to keep their pets safe while also melting the ice on their driveway, sidewalk or patio. This deicer is made with active ingredients that are proven to be safe for dogs and other pets, so you can take them outside without any worries. It is a salt-free formula that doesn't cling to boots or paws, which means it virtually eliminates tracking inside your home or office. This deicer is also lightweight and has long-lasting power, melting the ice and providing instant traction so you can walk on it immediately without having to wait for it to melt.
The Pet Friendly Snow Melt is not only safe for pets, it is also safe for your lawn and plants. It is made of 90% recycled materials and can be used on all surfaces, including concrete, driveway, and sidewalk. This deicer will not damage grass and helps to aerate your lawn for healthier growth in spring.
Overall, the Pet Friendly Snow Melt is a great choice for pet owners who want a safe and effective solution for melting ice on their property. It provides instant traction, is lightweight and has long-lasting power, and is safe for pets, plants, and the environment.
- Safe for dogs and other pets
- Provides instant traction
- Lightweight and long-lasting
- Salt-free formula eliminates tracking indoors
- Safe for lawn and plants
6. Pet-Friendly Ice Melt – Lasts 3x Longer.
The safer and eco-friendly ice melt formula made in the USA is a must-have for pet owners. This proprietary formula is not only safer for pets but also for children and all types of surfaces such as carpet, tile, concrete, metal, and wood. The unique formula is easier on pets' paws and works better on ice compared to other ice melt products. The fast-acting, "time-release" formula lasts three times longer than other ice melt products and helps prevent re-icing on your driveway, sidewalk, or patio. The 10-pound jug contains up to 25% more ice melt than our competitors, making it a cost-effective choice for users. The proprietary organic technology called ProtectRx reduces corrosion rates by up to 75%, making it safer for vehicles, equipment, and other surfaces. The non-hygroscopic ice melt formula is environmentally friendly with biodegradable soil supporting compounds, making it less harmful to plant life compared to other ice melters. The easy-to-apply cap eliminates the need for a shaker bottle and allows for the perfect amount of product usage. The green-colored crystals won't clump and help you see exactly how much you have applied, making it simple and effective.
- Safer and eco-friendly formula made in the USA
- Safer for pets, children, and all types of surfaces
- Fast-acting, "time-release" formula lasts three times longer than other ice melt products
- ProtectRx technology reduces corrosion rates by up to 75%
- Non-hygroscopic ice melt formula is environmentally friendly with biodegradable soil supporting compounds
- Easy-to-apply cap eliminates the need for a shaker bottle
- Green-colored crystals won't clump and help you see exactly how much you have applied
- Cost-effective choice for users
- – No significant drawbacks found
7. Safestep Heated Stair Mat, Stop Snow Slips
This snow melting mat comes with a 1-year warranty, providing a peace of mind to the buyer. Operating at an efficiency of approximately 2 inches of snow melted per hour, it can quickly clear snow from your driveway or walkway. The product is affordable to operate, usually costing less than $2 per snow day, making it a cost-effective solution for snow removal.
The snow melting mat is safer and more convenient than shoveling snow or using deicing salt, eliminating the need for physical labor and potential injury. It requires a 120-volt GFCI power unit to connect the mat(s) to an electrical outlet, which is sold separately. The Summerstep (SMPC) 120-volt GFCI power units can be purchased on Amazon, making it easy for customers to find and purchase the required power unit.
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Efficiently melts approximately 2 inches of snow per hour
- Affordable to operate, usually costing less than $2 per snow day
- Safer and more convenient than shoveling snow or using deicing salt
- – Requires a 120-volt GFCI power unit, which is sold separately
8. Heatup Asphalt & Pavers: Snowmeltz 240v
Introducing the Snow Melting Mats, a reliable and efficient solution to keep your driveways, walkways, and stairs snow-free during the winter season. With a heating capacity of 37 watts per square foot at 240 volts, this mat guarantees to melt even the thickest layer of snow, ensuring safety for your family and guests.
Measuring 2 feet wide and approximately 50 feet long, this easy-to-install mat covers a total of 100 square feet, providing optimal snow melting coverage. The mat is roll-out and configurable, making it perfect for various shapes and sizes of driveways and walkways. Moreover, the mat comes with an activator that features a temperature and moisture sensor, which switches up to 30 amps. The activator has a system amp of 15A at 240VAC, ensuring efficient and reliable operation of the mat.
This Snow Melting Mats is ETL Listed for US & Canada, ensuring that the product meets the safety standards and regulations of both countries. Invest in the Snow Melting Mats today and experience a hassle-free winter season with a clear and safe driveway and walkway.
- Provides efficient and reliable snow melting capabilities
- Covers a total of 100 square feet, making it suitable for various shapes and sizes of driveways and walkways
- Activator has temperature and moisture sensor that switches up to 30 amps, ensuring efficient and reliable operation
- ETL Listed for US & Canada, ensuring safety and quality
9. Buyers Products Atvs100 Atv All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader 100 Lbs. Capacity With Rain Cover , Black
This poly hopper is a must-have for farmers, hunters, landscapers, and those in grounds maintenance. It boasts a 100 lb capacity for heavy-duty use. The hopper is rustproof and durable, ensuring long-lasting use.
Buyers Products is more than just parts. They offer a wide range of products, including snow and ice equipment, toolboxes, hydraulics, towing equipment, truck and trailer hardware, and innovative lighting products. Their products are designed with the customer in mind, providing exceptional quality and functionality.
Buyers Products does things the right way. Their engineers and experts design products as if they were building them for themselves, ensuring exceptional quality and durability. Founded in 1946, Buyers Products has become a leader in the truck equipment industry due to their commitment to customer care, innovation, and value.
- The poly hopper has a 100 lb capacity for heavy-duty use
- The hopper is rustproof and durable, ensuring long-lasting use
- Buyers Products offers a wide range of products, including snow and ice equipment, toolboxes, hydraulics, towing equipment, truck and trailer hardware, and innovative lighting products
- Buyers Products designs their products with the customer in mind, providing exceptional quality and functionality
10. Heattapepro: Intelligent Self-Regulating Heat Cable With Glowcap™.
The INTELLIGENT cable is engineered with patented GlowCap technology, allowing users to verify proper operation from end to end. This heavy-duty cable surpasses cheap Chinese cables with its commercial-grade self-regulating Heat Tape Pro. All connections are injection molded, ensuring durability and reliability. The product comes with a 10-year warranty, the best in the industry, and is UL Listed, certified for use on various roofs such as flat, metal, asphalt, wood, and rubber. The company is based in Minnesota, and their expert support staff is always ready to help with any project. To use this product, please don't forget to order Radiant Solutions Company roof clips. Additionally, customers can use the HeatCableCalculator to determine the cable length and accessory recommendations.
- Patented GlowCap technology allows users to verify proper operation from end to end
- Commercial-grade self-regulating Heat Tape Pro outperforms cheap Chinese cables
- Injection molded connections ensure durability and reliability
- 10-year warranty, the best in the industry
- UL Listed, certified for use on various roofs
Best Salt For Snow Melting FAQs
Can salt damage concrete or vegetation during snow melting?
Yes, salt can damage both concrete and vegetation during snow melting. When salt is applied to snow and ice, it lowers the freezing point of water and causes the snow and ice to melt. However, as the water runs off, it can also seep into cracks and pores in the concrete, where it can freeze and expand, causing damage to the surface. In addition, the salt can react with the concrete and cause it to deteriorate over time.
Salt can also damage vegetation by drawing water out of plant cells, causing dehydration and potentially killing the plant. The salt can also build up in the soil over time, making it difficult for plants to absorb water and nutrients.
To minimize the damage caused by salt, it's important to use it sparingly and to clean up any excess salt after the snow has melted. Alternatives to salt, such as sand or kitty litter, can also be used to improve traction on slippery surfaces without causing damage to the environment.
How does salt melt snow?
Salt is commonly used to melt snow on roads and sidewalks during winter. The process of salt melting snow is based on the principle of freezing point depression. When salt is applied to snow or ice, it dissolves in the thin layer of water formed on the surface due to the heat generated by the friction of tires or footsteps. As a result, the concentration of salt in the water increases, reducing the freezing point of water.
The freezing point of pure water is 0°C (32°F), but when salt is added, the freezing point of water decreases. The exact decrease in freezing point depends on the concentration of salt. For example, if the concentration of salt in water is 10%, the freezing point of water will decrease to around -6°C (21°F).
As the freezing point of water decreases, the snow and ice melt at a lower temperature than they would without salt. This process helps to remove the snow and ice from the surface, making it easier to clear the area. However, it should be noted that excessive use of salt can be harmful to the environment, as it can contaminate soil and water sources.
How much salt should be used for snow melting?
The amount of salt needed for snow melting depends on several factors such as the temperature, the amount of snow, and the surface area to be covered. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to use one pound of salt per 250 square feet of pavement. However, it is important to note that using too much salt can have negative environmental impacts such as harming wildlife, contaminating water sources, and damaging vegetation. It can also cause corrosion on metal surfaces such as cars and buildings. Therefore, it is essential to use salt sparingly and only when necessary. Alternative methods for snow melting include using sand or kitty litter for traction, using heated mats, or shoveling snow manually. Ultimately, it is important to prioritize safety while also being mindful of the impact on the environment.
Is salt an environmentally friendly option for snow melting?
Salt has been a commonly used substance for melting snow and ice for decades due to its ability to lower the freezing point of water. However, the use of salt for snow melting is not an environmentally friendly option. The environmental impact of salt is quite significant, it can cause damage to plants, trees, and the soil. It can also seep into groundwater and contaminate drinking water. The use of salt for snow melting can also harm aquatic life, as it can cause an increase in the salinity of bodies of water.
There are other eco-friendly alternatives to salt for snow melting, such as sand, ash, and kitty litter. These alternatives are not as effective as salt in melting snow and ice, but they provide a safe solution that does not harm the environment. Additionally, proper snow removal techniques can also help reduce the need for snow melting products. Regular shoveling and plowing can remove snow before it has a chance to become ice and reduce the need for salt or other snow melting products.
In conclusion, while salt is an effective way to melt snow and ice, it is not an environmentally friendly option. There are other eco-friendly alternatives available that can be used to melt snow without harming the environment. It is important to consider the environmental impact of our actions and choose products that are safe for the environment.
What type of salt is best for snow melting?
When it comes to melting snow, not all salts are created equal. The most commonly used salts for snow melting are rock salt (sodium chloride), calcium chloride, and magnesium chloride.
Rock salt, also known as halite, is the cheapest and most widely available option. It works well at temperatures above 15°F (-9°C), but becomes less effective in colder temperatures. Rock salt can also damage concrete and vegetation if used in excess.
Calcium chloride is more expensive than rock salt, but it is more effective at lower temperatures, as low as -25°F (-32°C). It also generates heat as it dissolves, which speeds up the melting process. However, it can also damage concrete and vegetation if used in excess.
Magnesium chloride is the most expensive option, but it is also the most gentle on concrete and vegetation. It works well at temperatures as low as -13°F (-25°C) and is less corrosive than other salts. However, it is not as effective as calcium chloride at extremely low temperatures.
Overall, the best salt for snow melting depends on the temperature, budget, and specific needs of the user. It is important to use salt in moderation and follow instructions carefully to avoid damage to property and the environment.