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Best Salt For Snow That Won’T Damage Concrete (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to keep your walkway and driveway safe during the winter months without damaging your concrete, look no further than salt for snow that won’t damage concrete. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one to choose?

One important factor to consider is the type of concrete you have. Different types of concrete can react differently to certain types of salt, so it’s important to do your research and make sure you choose a product that is safe for your specific type of concrete. You also want to consider the environment and surrounding areas, as some types of salt can have negative effects on plants and grass.

Another factor to consider is the effectiveness of the salt. While you want to use a product that is safe for your concrete and the environment, you also want to make sure it actually works to melt the snow and ice. Look for products with a high salt concentration and that have been proven to be effective in cold temperatures.

Are you tired of dealing with slippery, dangerous walkways during the winter months? Do you want to keep your concrete safe without damaging it? Keep reading to find out more about the best options for salt for snow that won’t damage concrete and how to choose the right product for your specific needs.

10 Best Salt For Snow That Won'T Damage Concrete

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for quickly melting ice in temperatures as low as -15°F without damaging concrete and safe for pets.
2
Ideal for melting snow and ice on concrete surfaces, effective at extremely low temperatures.
3
Ideal for quickly melting ice and snow while being pet-friendly due to its pure magnesium chloride formula.
4
Ideal for pet and child safety, with no risk of concrete damage, fast-acting, and lasts longer than traditional ice melts.
5
Ideal for waterproofing and protecting concrete surfaces, including driveways, patios, and sidewalks, while also providing de-icing salt protection.
6
This product is ideal for safely melting snow and ice on various surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, and roofs, without using harmful salt-chloride.
7
Fast-acting and environmentally safe ice melt ideal for use around pets, plants, and concrete surfaces, and effective in extreme cold temperatures.
8
Safe, non-toxic ice melt solution for families with pets and children that won't damage concrete surfaces.
9
Ideal for melting snow and ice on various surfaces including concrete, asphalt, roofs, and is safe for pets/paws.
10
Ideal for preventing snow and ice buildup on surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots.
This product is ideal for quickly melting ice in temperatures as low as -15°F without damaging concrete and safe for pets.
Ideal for melting snow and ice on concrete surfaces, effective at extremely low temperatures.
Ideal for quickly melting ice and snow while being pet-friendly due to its pure magnesium chloride formula.
Ideal for pet and child safety, with no risk of concrete damage, fast-acting, and lasts longer than traditional ice melts.
Ideal for waterproofing and protecting concrete surfaces, including driveways, patios, and sidewalks, while also providing de-icing salt protection.
This product is ideal for safely melting snow and ice on various surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, and roofs, without using harmful salt-chloride.
Fast-acting and environmentally safe ice melt ideal for use around pets, plants, and concrete surfaces, and effective in extreme cold temperatures.
Safe, non-toxic ice melt solution for families with pets and children that won't damage concrete surfaces.
Ideal for melting snow and ice on various surfaces including concrete, asphalt, roofs, and is safe for pets/paws.
Ideal for preventing snow and ice buildup on surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots.

1. Pet-Friendly Ice Melt: -15°f Fast Acting!

The Pet Safe ice melt is designed to melt snow and ice in frigid temperatures, even as low as -10°F. It generates exothermic heat over a short period of time, melting twice as much ice as rock salt in 21°F, according to a test. The magnesium chloride formula used in this product is harvested from the Dead Sea and is known for its low toxicity level, making it safer for pets and the environment than calcium, potassium, or sodium chloride. The small, round pellet shape of Pet Safe makes it perfect for use in various ice melt spreaders. Additionally, it is highly unlikely to burn or irritate the skin or pets' paws, and it won't harm plants or cause spalling on driveways and concrete that has been properly set and cured. Pet Safe comes with a 30-day hassle-free money-back guarantee, and the company stands behind all of its products 100%. If customers are not pleased with the product, they can contact the company with their order number, and the company will reimburse them in full.

Pros

  • Melt snow and ice in frigid temperatures
  • Magnesium chloride formula is less toxic than other chloride formulas
  • Safer for pets and the environment
  • Small, round pellet shape perfect for use in various ice melt spreaders
  • Highly unlikely to burn or irritate skin or pets' paws
  • Won't harm plants or cause spalling on driveways and concrete
  • 30-day hassle-free money-back guarantee
  • Company stands behind all of its products 100%

2. Eco-Melt: Safe & Strong Ice Solution.

Green Gobbler's Calcium Chloride Ice Melt is the perfect solution to your snow and ice problems. With its unique formulation, it works four times faster than rock salt by generating exothermic heat that instantly melts even the thickest snow and ice with maximum safety and little effort. It works in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit, lowering the re-freezing temperature and preventing cracks and potholes in parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, walkways, porches, patios and more! The round pellet design makes it perfect to use with rotary spreaders, allowing you to cover larger areas and spread the ice pellets even faster and with less effort. Moreover, it is safer for plants and pavement and less likely to harm grasses, bushes, trees, or decorative landscapes than rock salt when used as directed. With Green Gobbler's Calcium Chloride Ice Melt, you can say goodbye to snow and ice problems and enjoy a safer, slip-free environment in no time.

Pros

  • Melts snow and ice 4X faster than rock salt
  • Works in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Safer for plants and pavement
  • Perfect for use with spreader equipment
  • 30-day hassle-free return policy

3. Pet-Safe Magnesium Chloride Ice Melter

Pet Safe Ice Melt is the perfect solution for pet owners who want to keep their pets safe during winter. This product is made of 100% Magnesium Chloride formula, which won't burn or irritate pets' paws. The round pellet form of the product ensures there are no jagged crystals that could hurt your pets. This ice melt works immediately, melting ice on driveways, sidewalks, steps, balconies, patios, walkways, roadways, and more. It is effective at low temperatures, working at temperatures down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit.

This product is also less corrosive to concrete than sodium chloride and calcium chloride, making it a safer choice for your property. Moreover, it is kinder to the environment than traditional rock salt ice melters. The product has been OMRI Listed, which means it is approved for organic use. This is an added benefit for eco-conscious consumers who want to choose products that are safe for the environment.

With Pet Safe Ice Melt, you can have peace of mind knowing that your pets are safe, and your property is protected during the winter season.

Pros

  • 100% Magnesium Chloride formula won't burn or irritate pets' paws
  • Works immediately, melting ice on various surfaces
  • Effective at low temperatures down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Less corrosive to concrete than sodium chloride and calcium chloride
  • Kinder to the environment than traditional rock salt ice melters
  • OMRI Listed for organic use

4. Pet-Safe Ice Melt With Traction – Safe Paw!

Introducing Safe Paw, the ice melt that guarantees safety for your family, pets, and property. This innovative product ensures that your grass, plants, and foliage remain safe while effectively melting ice at low temperatures, as low as -2°F. Unlike other ice melts on the market, Safe Paw is 100% salt and chloride free, making it the ideal solution for environmentally conscious consumers. Safe Paw is also non-toxic, biodegradable, and non-corrosive, ensuring that delicate machinery is not damaged and there is no risk of short circuits.

Safe Paw is recommended by veterinarians and is safe for pets and people to use. You don't have to worry about causing harm to animals or children, even if ingested or in contact with skin and eyes. With its concentrated formula, Safe Paw assures long-term, maximum effectiveness from season to season. It allows for an excellent spread rate that can treat small and large areas for a long time. Say goodbye to worrying about property damage and hello to a safe winter play land for your pets and family.

Pros

  • 100% salt and chloride free
  • Non-toxic and biodegradable
  • Safe for pets and people to use
  • Guaranteed to melt at low temperatures (-2°F)
  • Non-corrosive and non-conductive
  • Long shelf life and concentrated formula
  • Excellent spread rate
  • Recommended by veterinarians

5. Clear Shield Masonry Sealer With Salt Protection

If you're looking for a reliable and effective way to protect your concrete surfaces from water damage, the MasonryDefender Clear Concrete Sealer is definitely worth considering. This water-based sealer provides a long-lasting and non-glossy invisible coat to your concrete driveway, patio or sidewalk, without altering their color or appearance. The sealer uses an eco-friendly silane/siloxane rain guard that penetrates the concrete and bonds with its minerals to provide long-lasting water protection. The breathable sealer causes water to bead, instead of seeping into the concrete, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that experience a lot of rainfall or snow. The sealer is also effective in protecting against pitting or cracking, efflorescence stains, freeze-thaw damage, and ice melt salts or chloride ions.

Using MasonryDefender Clear Concrete Sealer is easy and hassle-free. Before application, it is important to ensure that the concrete surface is fully cleaned and clear of dirt, dust, grease, oil, efflorescence, etc. Once the surface is clean, the sealer can be applied using a low-pressure pump-up garden sprayer. It is important to avoid puddling or ponding during application. One gallon of MasonryDefender Clear Concrete Sealer can cover an area of 90-150 sq.ft.

MasonryDefender offers a 3-Year Limited Warranty on Horizontal Concrete Surfaces, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected for years to come.

Pros

  • Provides long-lasting, non-glossy invisible coat to concrete surfaces
  • Eco-friendly silane/siloxane rain guard penetrates concrete and masonry for long-lasting water protection
  • Breathable sealer causes water to bead instead of seeping into concrete
  • Protects against pitting or cracking, efflorescence stains, freeze-thaw damage, and ice melt salts or chloride ions
  • Easy to apply using a low-pressure pump-up garden sprayer
  • One gallon can cover an area of 90-150 sq.ft.
  • MasonryDefender offers a 3-Year Limited Warranty on Horizontal Concrete Surfaces

6. Pet-Friendly Snow Melter, Safe For All Surfaces

The Safe Thaw ice melt by Safe Paw makers is a pet-safe and environmentally friendly solution for melting ice. The product is safe to use around children, plants, dogs, and other pets. It is a non-corrosive and non-conductive product that won't cause any damage to delicate machinery or circuits. Safe Thaw ice melt is also safe if ingested. The ice-melting crystals of the product destabilize and melt ice particles in just ten minutes, preventing water molecules from reforming. This feature makes it an ultra-fast ice melting solution. The crystal formula of Safe Thaw leaches out a de-icing liquid that speeds up the melting process even in sub-zero temperatures. The product has an excellent spread rate, covering 100 square feet per pound. Safe Thaw ice melt won't harm eyes or skin. It comes in a 10lbs 7oz package that assures long-term, maximum effectiveness from season to season.

Pros

  • Pet-safe and environmentally friendly ice melting solution
  • Safe to use around children, plants, dogs, and other pets
  • Non-corrosive and non-conductive product that won't cause any damage to delicate machinery or circuits
  • Safe if ingested
  • Ultra-fast ice melting solution
  • Excellent spread rate that covers 100 square feet per pound
  • Won't harm eyes or skin
  • Comes in a package that assures long-term, maximum effectiveness from season to season

7. Arctic-Friendly Ice Melt Bucket – Effective & Safe!

The National Blue Ice Melt is a premium ice melter that is designed to melt ice at temperatures as low as -15°F. It contains two patented accelerating agents that enable it to work faster and more efficiently than other ice melters. The optimized particle size ensures controlled spreading, allowing you to melt more with less cost. The product is also equipped with anti-caking agents that make it easier to use with ice melt spreaders and ensures longer storage life. Additionally, the ice melt has a water-soluble non-staining coverage indicator that makes it easier to see when spreading.

The National Blue Ice Melt is made with commercial strength, professional ice melter, and contains 10% Calcium Chloride, which makes it more effective than a theoretical 50% calcium chloride blend. Furthermore, the product is magnesium chloride-free, which makes it better for the environment. The ice melt is pet and concrete friendly, ensuring that it will not harm concrete or vegetation when used according to label instructions. Incorporating liquid anti-icing practices with dry application rates is also essential to reducing chloride and salt impacts on the environment. The product is safe for pets and their paws, making it a perfect choice for homes with pets.

Pros

  • Contains two patented accelerating agents that make it work faster and more efficiently
  • Optimized particle size ensures controlled spreading, which means you can melt more with less cost
  • Anti-caking agents make it easy to use with ice melt spreaders and ensures longer storage life
  • Water-soluble non-staining coverage indicator makes it easier to see when spreading
  • Contains 10% Calcium Chloride, which makes it more effective than a theoretical 50% calcium chloride blend
  • Magnesium chloride-free, which makes it better for the environment
  • Pet and concrete friendly, ensuring that it will not harm concrete or vegetation when used according to label instructions
  • Safe for pets and their paws, making it a perfect choice for homes with pets

8. Pet-Safe, Eco-Friendly Ice Melter

Looking for a safe and effective ice melt? Look no further than Safe Paw! This unique product is designed to be safe for pets, children, and the environment. Unlike traditional ice melts that can harm plants and foliage, Safe Paw is 100% salt and chloride free, making it safe for your grass, plants, and other outdoor areas. It's also safe on eyes, skin, and paws, and is even safe if ingested. This makes it a great choice for families with pets or young children.

One of the key benefits of Safe Paw is its low melting temperature. It's guaranteed to melt at temperatures as low as -2°F, making it effective in even the coldest weather. And because it's non-toxic and biodegradable, you can feel good about using it around your home.

Another advantage of Safe Paw is its veterinarian-recommended formula. Unlike other pet-safe ice melts, Safe Paw is designed to be safe for both people and pets, without sacrificing effectiveness. And because it's non-corrosive and non-conductive, you don't have to worry about damaging delicate machinery or causing short circuits.

Finally, Safe Paw has an excellent spread rate, allowing you to treat a large area with just a small amount of product. This makes it a cost-effective choice for homeowners and businesses alike. So why wait? Make your property safer this winter with Safe Paw!

Pros

  • Safe for pets and children
  • Won't harm plants or foliage
  • 100% salt and chloride free
  • Effective in low temperatures
  • Non-toxic and biodegradable
  • Veterinarian-recommended formula
  • Non-corrosive and non-conductive
  • Excellent spread rate
  • Cost-effective

9. Safe Thaw Pet-Safe Snow Melt & Traction Aid

The Safe Thaw ice melt is a pet-safe product that is non-corrosive and can be used around plants, pets, and children. It is environmentally safe for land and waterways, and it won't cause any damage to concrete. The product is safe if ingested, making it a perfect choice for pet owners. With this saltless ice melter, you can remove snow from various surfaces, including concrete, lawns, decking material, asphalt, and pavers. The Safe Thaw crystal is designed to melt ice even in ultra-cold conditions, thanks to its deicing liquid. It is capable of melting ice particles in just 10 minutes, and its formula prevents water molecules from reforming to destabilize. The product covers 100 square feet per pound, and it comes in a 30-pound flexicube pail. Additionally, it won't harm eyes or skin, making it safe for use.

Pros

  • Safe for pets, plants, and children.
  • Non-corrosive and environmentally safe.
  • Won't damage concrete.
  • Can be used on various surfaces.
  • Melts ice particles in just 10 minutes.
  • Safe formula that won't harm eyes or skin.
  • Covers 100 square feet per pound.
  • Effective even in ultra-cold conditions.

10. Bare Ground Bg-30d All Natural Anti-Snow Liquid De-Icer In Professional Drum, 30 Gallons

Looking for a safe and effective deicer? Look no further than this all-natural, noncorrosive spray-on deicer. This product can reduce accumulation of snow by up to 2 inches if applied one hour before snow falls. Not only that, but it creates a nonstick surface that prevents bonding of ice and snow. With its 50:50 water dilution, it can be sprayed directly on trees and shrubs to prevent breakage due to ice. This deicer meets or exceeds the most stringent U.S. Environmental specs for ice makers and is virtually noncorrosive for safe use on all surfaces.

This deicer is a perfect solution for those who want to keep their driveways, sidewalks, and roads clear of snow and ice without harming the environment or damaging their property. It is easy to use and has a long-lasting effect. With its noncorrosive formula, it is safe for use on all surfaces, including cars and outdoor furniture. Plus, it can be diluted with water to make it even more cost-effective.

Overall, this all-natural, noncorrosive spray-on deicer is a great choice for anyone looking for a safe and effective way to deal with snow and ice. Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, this product is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Pros

  • All-natural and noncorrosive formula
  • Reduces accumulation of snow by up to 2 inches
  • Creates a nonstick surface that prevents bonding of ice and snow
  • Can be diluted with water to make it more cost-effective
  • Meets or exceeds the most stringent U.S. Environmental specs for ice makers
  • Safe for use on all surfaces, including cars and outdoor furniture

Cons

  • – May require multiple applications for heavy snowfall

Best Salt For Snow That Won'T Damage Concrete FAQs

Are there any alternatives to using salt for snow removal on concrete?

Yes, there are several alternatives to using salt for snow removal on concrete. One option is to use sand or kitty litter to create traction and prevent slipping. These materials do not melt the snow, but they provide grip for vehicles and pedestrians. Another option is to use calcium magnesium acetate (CMA), which is a salt-free deicer that does not harm concrete or vegetation. CMA is less corrosive than traditional salt and is biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice. Additionally, some people use heated mats or cables to melt snow and ice on concrete surfaces. These systems are installed beneath the concrete and can be controlled manually or through an automated system. While these alternatives may be more expensive than traditional salt, they offer benefits such as reduced environmental impact and decreased damage to concrete surfaces.

Can using too much salt on concrete lead to long-term damage?

Yes, using too much salt on concrete can lead to long-term damage. Salt can penetrate the pores of the concrete and cause it to deteriorate over time. This is especially true in areas with cold climates where salt is used to de-ice roads and sidewalks. The salt can seep into the concrete and cause it to weaken, crack, and crumble. This can lead to costly repairs or even the need for full replacement of the concrete surface. It's important to limit the amount of salt used on concrete surfaces and to rinse them off with water as soon as possible after exposure to salt. Using alternative de-icing methods, such as sand or calcium magnesium acetate, can also help prevent long-term damage to concrete surfaces. Regular maintenance and sealing of concrete surfaces can also help protect them from damage caused by salt and other harsh chemicals.

How does salt affect concrete surfaces?

Salt can have a significant impact on concrete surfaces. When salt is used for de-icing roads or sidewalks in cold weather, it can cause damage to concrete surfaces. The salt can penetrate the pores of the concrete, causing the surface to weaken and become more susceptible to cracking and spalling. Salt can also react with the calcium hydroxide in the concrete, which can cause the concrete to deteriorate over time.

Furthermore, salt can accelerate the corrosion of reinforcement bars within concrete, which can lead to structural damage. This is especially concerning in coastal areas where saltwater spray can come into contact with concrete structures.

To prevent salt damage to concrete surfaces, it is important to properly seal and maintain the surface. Using alternative de-icing materials, such as sand or calcium magnesium acetate, can also help to minimize the impact of salt on concrete. In addition, regular cleaning and sealing of concrete surfaces can help to protect against salt damage and extend the life of the concrete.

How much salt should be applied to prevent damage to concrete?

Salt can cause significant damage to concrete surfaces, especially during the winter months when it is used to melt snow and ice. To prevent this damage, it is important to limit the amount of salt that is applied to the surface.

The amount of salt that should be applied to prevent damage to concrete depends on several factors, including the severity of the weather conditions, the type of concrete, and the location of the surface. In general, it is recommended that no more than two pounds of salt per square yard be applied to concrete surfaces.

It is also important to keep in mind that salt should not be applied to new concrete surfaces until they have fully cured. This can take up to 28 days, depending on the type of concrete and the weather conditions.

To further protect concrete surfaces from salt damage, it is recommended to seal the surface with a high-quality concrete sealer. This will help to prevent water and salt from penetrating the surface and causing damage.

In summary, to prevent damage to concrete from salt, it is important to limit the amount of salt that is applied, wait until new concrete surfaces have fully cured before applying salt, and use a high-quality concrete sealer to protect the surface.

What type of salt is safe for use on concrete?

When it comes to using salt on concrete surfaces, it's important to choose the right type of salt to avoid any damage or deterioration. The safe type of salt for use on concrete is calcium chloride. It is effective in melting snow and ice at low temperatures and is less harmful to concrete surfaces compared to other types of salt.

On the other hand, sodium chloride, also known as rock salt, can cause damage to concrete surfaces due to its high alkalinity. It can penetrate the surface and cause cracking and scaling, which can lead to costly repairs.

Magnesium chloride is another option, but it can also be damaging to concrete surfaces if not used correctly. It is less harmful than sodium chloride, but it can still cause damage if used in large quantities.

In conclusion, if you're looking to use salt on concrete surfaces, it's best to choose calcium chloride as it is the safest option for both the surface and the environment. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use it sparingly to prevent any potential damage.

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