The last thing you need this winter season is you or a loved one down and out with a slip and fall injury that could have been prevented. Using the right de-icing salt can offer peace of mind knowing your walkways and driveway are safe from the perils of freezing.
So, does table salt melt ice? Not quite as well as you’d hope. So, what salt works best to melt ice then? You’ve come to the right place, as we’ll examine the pros and cons of all the different types of salt for melting ice.
While rock salt (sodium chloride) is the most common option here in the UK, there are plenty of others as well - some work better in excessively cold conditions, like magnesium chloride or calcium chloride. Others are a more eco-friendly solution, like potassium chloride.
But if you just want to set yourself up for a safe winter season, look no further than our deicing salt at Jennychem. We have a few options to choose from, each of which has its place. Pair with one of our grit spreaders and put the stress of slips and falls in the past for good!
Overview of De-Icing Salt
Let’s start with the basics - why is salt placed on roads in winter months? What does salt do to ice that makes it such an essential in our harsh winter seasons here in the UK? Simply put, it melts ice. But why does salt melt ice?
The process is known as freezing point depression, which is a fancy way to describe how salt lowers the freezing point of water when applied. This only breaks the bond between ice and the surface it’s clinging to (effectively de-icing the surface), but also prevents new ice from forming.
The one concern is that some types of salt can be detrimental to plant health. That being said, But, does salt kill weeds? It sure does, it’s actually a very strong homemade weed killer. That’s a conversation for another day, though.
Salt is generally safe for use on roadways and walkways, though it can be slightly corrosive on infrastructure and vehicles. That’s why proper maintenance of your car is key throughout the winter season, and why our chassis cleaner is so popular.
All things considered, salt is a great choice for keeping frozen surfaces at bay. But can you use any salt to melt ice, or are there certain forms that work better than others?
Can You Use Any Salt to Melt Ice?
Technically all salt will have some impact on ice - but just how effective the salt will be at melting ice is another story. We said it from the start, and we’ll say it again. Not all salt is created equal when it comes to melting power.
While table salt (sodium chloride) can technically melt ice in mild freezing conditions, its small granules and limited bulk availability make it impractical for just about anything. It would take a ton of table salt to melt ice, and then, you’d be left with nothing to cook with!
That’s why a specialised de-icing salt is going to be your best bet for keeping surfaces safe this winter season. So, what salt works best to melt ice?
What Salt Works Best to Melt Ice? Examining Different Types of Salt for Melting Ice That Work Best
Whether you’re stressing about how to prevent icy steps or how to spread salt on driveway so your vehicle can get up and down safely, there are actually a few different types of salt for melting ice. Each has unique characteristics worth considering.
Wondering what type of salt melts ice the fastest? That’s probably going to be calcium chloride. But what salt works best to melt ice while protecting vegetation and infrastructure from corrosion? Potassium chloride is a fairly gentle choice.
We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of deicing salt below to leave you feeling confident in which suits your needs best. Let’s kick it off with the most common type of salt used to melt ice: rock salt.
Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride)
You can’t beat the affordability of sodium chloride, and it works exceptionally well down to roughly -10°C. It lowers the freezing point of water to create a brine solution that prevents ice formation.
This is what most municipalities spread on the roadways during freezes, and it’s what many businesses rely on to keep the walkways around their stores safe, too. Even homeowners use rock salt.
It’s not uncommon for some parts of the UK to experience temperatures below -10°C, though, and rock salt will fall short in these scenarios. It can also be harmful to metal and damage vegetation if there’s too much runoff.
Fortunately, there are plenty of stronger options at your fingertips - like calcium chloride.
Calcium Chloride
This powerhouse de-icer works in the harshest conditions. So if you’re wondering what salt works BEST to melt ice, look no further. Calcium chloride is effective all the way down to -25°C.
This type of salt is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts moisture from the air to form a brine quickly and speed up the melting process. In that sense, it’s also what type of salt melts ice the fastest. This exothermic reaction also generates heat, making it even more effective than other types of salt.
There’s just one problem: it’s really expensive! Calcium chloride is tough to justify given its steep price tag compared to other types of salt, which is why it’s not used as much as you’d think.
But for settings that can’t afford any risks, calcium chloride can be used on high-priority areas such as stairs, ramps, and steep inclines.
Magnesium Chloride
Magnesium chloride also works exceptionally well in frigid conditions, with effectiveness down to -15°C. It’s less corrosive than sodium chloride and calcium chloride too, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
That’s why you’ll find this form used in areas where protecting plants, concrete, or metal takes precedence. This includes residential walkways, playgrounds, and near landscaping.
Potassium Chloride
Maybe you’re not worried about what salt works best to melt ice, or what type of salt melts ice the fastest. Rather, you’re looking for something that does the job without compromising the integrity of surrounding vegetation or the frozen surface in question. Potassium chloride is the clear choice.
It’s great for sensitive ecosystems, but just be aware it does have a higher freezing point than the other different types of salt for melting ice. It’s similar to rock salt in that it works down to -10°C.
Despite its eco-friendliness, you won’t see it used as commonly as traditional rock salt because it’s just not as practical for widespread or high-traffic use given its high price tag. We do see it used in light winter conditions or near gardens and water sources, though.
Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA)
Perhaps the most gentle form of de-icing salt is CMA, which is gentler on vegetation and surfaces than even potassium chloride. But again, it doesn’t work great past -10°C, similar to rock salt or potassium chloride.
Still, this form is reserved for de-icing important infrastructure like bridges or parking garages, and we see it applied in areas near waterways as well.
Blended De-Icers
We know what you’re thinking…it would be great if you could combine the fast-acting power of magnesium chloride with the gentle nature of potassium chloride! That’s where blends come in.
These combine the strengths of different salts to maximise performance. For example, a mixture of rock salt and calcium chloride works wonders in colder temperatures while keeping costs manageable.
Some blends also include anti-corrosion agents or traction materials, making them a versatile choice for areas with varying needs. These are often equipped with anti-caking agents for easier spreading, too.
Set Yourself Up for a Safe Winter Season With the Best Salt for Melting Ice at Jennychem!
There are so many different types of salt for melting ice, each with its unique properties that have earned it a place in protecting surfaces from freezing. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with which is best for you, but don’t sweat it - your search ends at Jennychem.
For more than 35 years UK homeowners and businesses have relied on us for a variety of products, including our unbeatable selection of de-icing salt and grit spreaders. These are a must-have each winter season for keeping your property safe.
Whether you’re managing a busy car park or just trying to prevent icy steps outside your home, we have a salt that will meet your needs. There are three different options to choose from:
- Brown De-Icing Salt & Grit: A versatile and cost-effective option for large-scale applications like roads, car parks, and driveways. It conforms to BS3247:2011 (British de-icing standards) and even contains naturally occurring grit particles to add traction.
- White De-Icing Salt: As pure clean salt as you’ll find, almost 100% sodium chloride. It’s perfect for pathways, pavements, and playgrounds where cleanliness matters. It doesn’t leave any messy residue behind so you can apply with peace of mind.
- Rapid Ice Melt: Look no further for what type of salt melts ice the fastest - this formulation works up to 30 times faster than traditional rock salt. It’s our recommendation for icy steps, sloping paths, and uneven terrain when time is of the essence.
We don’t just have all the different types of salt for melting ice, either. You can count on us for all your winter essentials, like windscreen de icer and anti freeze. Browse our catalogue, as you may be surprised by what we have in store for you!
Quick Tips on Using Salt for Ice Melting
Even when using one of the different types of salt for melting ice, you need to know how to melt ice on concrete (or any other surface, for that matter) correctly. The goal is to maximise ice melting power without overusing the salt. Here are some tips:
Apply Salt Before Ice Forms When Possible
You’re working harder than you need to if you only apply salt to frozen surfaces. Ideally, you’d apply salt before the freeze sets in. Pre-treatment prevents ice from bonding to the surface, making it easier to remove later.
This is why we always recommend staying up to date on the forecast and watching out for freezing rain or overnight temperature drops. You can save time and resources this way. You know what they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Spread Salt Evenly for Maximum Coverage
It’s easy to miss spots when applying salt over expansive spaces, like a driveway or carpark. A scoop or handheld spreader works fine in these cases, but it’s worth investing in a salt spreader for larger areas, or at the very least, making our own.
Pay attention to coverage rates and make sure you’re loading up your spreader correctly. Work in slightly overlapping passes to avoid missing a spot and leaving a slippery surface behind.
Just make sure you’re not piling up salt, as this will cause uneven melting and unnecessary runoff. We have more tips on how to use a salt spreader in our blog.
Monitor and Reapply as Needed
Heavy snowfall or prolonged freezing conditions require regular reapplication. The initial layer of salt may lose effectiveness due to displacement or dilution.
So, take time to check on your surfaces every so often, especially high-traffic areas like walkways and driveways. You might need to apply salt once a day, or sometimes, more often if you’re trying to keep your business open and safe during winter storms.
Combine Salt With Traction Materials
Particularly slippery conditions call for a combination of salt and some sort of material like sand, grit, or gravel. These compounds don’t melt ice, but they do provide additional traction to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
This dynamic duo works great on steep inclines, uneven surfaces, or settings with high foot traffic. Remember, some of our de-icing salt solutions already contain naturally occurring grit!
Proper Storage Practices
Store de-icing salt in a dry, sealed container to protect it from moisture, which can cause clumping and adversely impact performance. Grit bins or heavy-duty plastic tubs are great for keeping salt ready for use. We sell some of these at Jennychem, too!
Place your storage container in a convenient, accessible location so you can get to work fast during sudden freezes, avoiding the hassle of walking back and forth across your property.
Find more winter resources on homemade de icer for car, what is de icing salt made of, the best de icer for car windscreen, types of antifreeze, mixing antifreeze, screenwash frozen, or the best antifreeze in our blog.
Otherwise, it’s time to stock up at Jennychem now that you know where to buy de icing salt! We’ll leave you with a few closing thoughts on what salt works best to melt ice below.
Closing Thoughts on What Type of Salt Melts Ice the Fastest
That does it for our guide on the different types of salt for melting ice. We hope you have a solid grasp of what type of salt melts ice the fastest, which is best for environmentally friendliness, and which is most economical.
While calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are best for the most extreme conditions, rock salt remains a reliable and cost-effective choice for milder climates. Meanwhile, potassium chloride or CMA are gentler options.
Whichever you choose, follow our advice on proper application to keep your property safe this winter season. Remember, Jennychem is your one-stop shop for all your winter needs, including the best de-icing salt in the UK.
From pathways to steps, car parks to roadways, trust Jennychem to deliver a de-icing solution that works in any conditions. Tackle winter weather head-on with our products today!
The last thing you need this winter season is you or a loved one down and out with a slip and fall injury that could have been prevented. Using the right de-icing salt can offer peace of mind knowing your walkways and driveway are safe from the perils of freezing.
So, does table salt melt ice? Not quite as well as you’d hope. So, what salt works best to melt ice then? You’ve come to the right place, as we’ll examine the pros and cons of all the different types of salt for melting ice.
While rock salt (sodium chloride) is the most common option here in the UK, there are plenty of others as well - some work better in excessively cold conditions, like magnesium chloride or calcium chloride. Others are a more eco-friendly solution, like potassium chloride.
But if you just want to set yourself up for a safe winter season, look no further than our deicing salt at Jennychem. We have a few options to choose from, each of which has its place. Pair with one of our grit spreaders and put the stress of slips and falls in the past for good!
Overview of De-Icing Salt
Let’s start with the basics - why is salt placed on roads in winter months? What does salt do to ice that makes it such an essential in our harsh winter seasons here in the UK? Simply put, it melts ice. But why does salt melt ice?
The process is known as freezing point depression, which is a fancy way to describe how salt lowers the freezing point of water when applied. This only breaks the bond between ice and the surface it’s clinging to (effectively de-icing the surface), but also prevents new ice from forming.
The one concern is that some types of salt can be detrimental to plant health. That being said, But, does salt kill weeds? It sure does, it’s actually a very strong homemade weed killer. That’s a conversation for another day, though.
Salt is generally safe for use on roadways and walkways, though it can be slightly corrosive on infrastructure and vehicles. That’s why proper maintenance of your car is key throughout the winter season, and why our chassis cleaner is so popular.
All things considered, salt is a great choice for keeping frozen surfaces at bay. But can you use any salt to melt ice, or are there certain forms that work better than others?
Can You Use Any Salt to Melt Ice?
Technically all salt will have some impact on ice - but just how effective the salt will be at melting ice is another story. We said it from the start, and we’ll say it again. Not all salt is created equal when it comes to melting power.
While table salt (sodium chloride) can technically melt ice in mild freezing conditions, its small granules and limited bulk availability make it impractical for just about anything. It would take a ton of table salt to melt ice, and then, you’d be left with nothing to cook with!
That’s why a specialised de-icing salt is going to be your best bet for keeping surfaces safe this winter season. So, what salt works best to melt ice?
What Salt Works Best to Melt Ice? Examining Different Types of Salt for Melting Ice That Work Best
Whether you’re stressing about how to prevent icy steps or how to spread salt on driveway so your vehicle can get up and down safely, there are actually a few different types of salt for melting ice. Each has unique characteristics worth considering.
Wondering what type of salt melts ice the fastest? That’s probably going to be calcium chloride. But what salt works best to melt ice while protecting vegetation and infrastructure from corrosion? Potassium chloride is a fairly gentle choice.
We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of deicing salt below to leave you feeling confident in which suits your needs best. Let’s kick it off with the most common type of salt used to melt ice: rock salt.
Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride)
You can’t beat the affordability of sodium chloride, and it works exceptionally well down to roughly -10°C. It lowers the freezing point of water to create a brine solution that prevents ice formation.
This is what most municipalities spread on the roadways during freezes, and it’s what many businesses rely on to keep the walkways around their stores safe, too. Even homeowners use rock salt.
It’s not uncommon for some parts of the UK to experience temperatures below -10°C, though, and rock salt will fall short in these scenarios. It can also be harmful to metal and damage vegetation if there’s too much runoff.
Fortunately, there are plenty of stronger options at your fingertips - like calcium chloride.
Calcium Chloride
This powerhouse de-icer works in the harshest conditions. So if you’re wondering what salt works BEST to melt ice, look no further. Calcium chloride is effective all the way down to -25°C.
This type of salt is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts moisture from the air to form a brine quickly and speed up the melting process. In that sense, it’s also what type of salt melts ice the fastest. This exothermic reaction also generates heat, making it even more effective than other types of salt.
There’s just one problem: it’s really expensive! Calcium chloride is tough to justify given its steep price tag compared to other types of salt, which is why it’s not used as much as you’d think.
But for settings that can’t afford any risks, calcium chloride can be used on high-priority areas such as stairs, ramps, and steep inclines.
Magnesium Chloride
Magnesium chloride also works exceptionally well in frigid conditions, with effectiveness down to -15°C. It’s less corrosive than sodium chloride and calcium chloride too, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
That’s why you’ll find this form used in areas where protecting plants, concrete, or metal takes precedence. This includes residential walkways, playgrounds, and near landscaping.
Potassium Chloride
Maybe you’re not worried about what salt works best to melt ice, or what type of salt melts ice the fastest. Rather, you’re looking for something that does the job without compromising the integrity of surrounding vegetation or the frozen surface in question. Potassium chloride is the clear choice.
It’s great for sensitive ecosystems, but just be aware it does have a higher freezing point than the other different types of salt for melting ice. It’s similar to rock salt in that it works down to -10°C.
Despite its eco-friendliness, you won’t see it used as commonly as traditional rock salt because it’s just not as practical for widespread or high-traffic use given its high price tag. We do see it used in light winter conditions or near gardens and water sources, though.
Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA)
Perhaps the most gentle form of de-icing salt is CMA, which is gentler on vegetation and surfaces than even potassium chloride. But again, it doesn’t work great past -10°C, similar to rock salt or potassium chloride.
Still, this form is reserved for de-icing important infrastructure like bridges or parking garages, and we see it applied in areas near waterways as well.
Blended De-Icers
We know what you’re thinking…it would be great if you could combine the fast-acting power of magnesium chloride with the gentle nature of potassium chloride! That’s where blends come in.
These combine the strengths of different salts to maximise performance. For example, a mixture of rock salt and calcium chloride works wonders in colder temperatures while keeping costs manageable.
Some blends also include anti-corrosion agents or traction materials, making them a versatile choice for areas with varying needs. These are often equipped with anti-caking agents for easier spreading, too.
Set Yourself Up for a Safe Winter Season With the Best Salt for Melting Ice at Jennychem!
There are so many different types of salt for melting ice, each with its unique properties that have earned it a place in protecting surfaces from freezing. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with which is best for you, but don’t sweat it - your search ends at Jennychem.
For more than 35 years UK homeowners and businesses have relied on us for a variety of products, including our unbeatable selection of de-icing salt and grit spreaders. These are a must-have each winter season for keeping your property safe.
Whether you’re managing a busy car park or just trying to prevent icy steps outside your home, we have a salt that will meet your needs. There are three different options to choose from:
- Brown De-Icing Salt & Grit: A versatile and cost-effective option for large-scale applications like roads, car parks, and driveways. It conforms to BS3247:2011 (British de-icing standards) and even contains naturally occurring grit particles to add traction.
- White De-Icing Salt: As pure clean salt as you’ll find, almost 100% sodium chloride. It’s perfect for pathways, pavements, and playgrounds where cleanliness matters. It doesn’t leave any messy residue behind so you can apply with peace of mind.
- Rapid Ice Melt: Look no further for what type of salt melts ice the fastest - this formulation works up to 30 times faster than traditional rock salt. It’s our recommendation for icy steps, sloping paths, and uneven terrain when time is of the essence.
We don’t just have all the different types of salt for melting ice, either. You can count on us for all your winter essentials, like windscreen de icer and anti freeze. Browse our catalogue, as you may be surprised by what we have in store for you!
Quick Tips on Using Salt for Ice Melting
Even when using one of the different types of salt for melting ice, you need to know how to melt ice on concrete (or any other surface, for that matter) correctly. The goal is to maximise ice melting power without overusing the salt. Here are some tips:
Apply Salt Before Ice Forms When Possible
You’re working harder than you need to if you only apply salt to frozen surfaces. Ideally, you’d apply salt before the freeze sets in. Pre-treatment prevents ice from bonding to the surface, making it easier to remove later.
This is why we always recommend staying up to date on the forecast and watching out for freezing rain or overnight temperature drops. You can save time and resources this way. You know what they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Spread Salt Evenly for Maximum Coverage
It’s easy to miss spots when applying salt over expansive spaces, like a driveway or carpark. A scoop or handheld spreader works fine in these cases, but it’s worth investing in a salt spreader for larger areas, or at the very least, making our own.
Pay attention to coverage rates and make sure you’re loading up your spreader correctly. Work in slightly overlapping passes to avoid missing a spot and leaving a slippery surface behind.
Just make sure you’re not piling up salt, as this will cause uneven melting and unnecessary runoff. We have more tips on how to use a salt spreader in our blog.
Monitor and Reapply as Needed
Heavy snowfall or prolonged freezing conditions require regular reapplication. The initial layer of salt may lose effectiveness due to displacement or dilution.
So, take time to check on your surfaces every so often, especially high-traffic areas like walkways and driveways. You might need to apply salt once a day, or sometimes, more often if you’re trying to keep your business open and safe during winter storms.
Combine Salt With Traction Materials
Particularly slippery conditions call for a combination of salt and some sort of material like sand, grit, or gravel. These compounds don’t melt ice, but they do provide additional traction to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
This dynamic duo works great on steep inclines, uneven surfaces, or settings with high foot traffic. Remember, some of our de-icing salt solutions already contain naturally occurring grit!
Proper Storage Practices
Store de-icing salt in a dry, sealed container to protect it from moisture, which can cause clumping and adversely impact performance. Grit bins or heavy-duty plastic tubs are great for keeping salt ready for use. We sell some of these at Jennychem, too!
Place your storage container in a convenient, accessible location so you can get to work fast during sudden freezes, avoiding the hassle of walking back and forth across your property.
Find more winter resources on homemade de icer for car, what is de icing salt made of, the best de icer for car windscreen, types of antifreeze, mixing antifreeze, screenwash frozen, or the best antifreeze in our blog.
Otherwise, it’s time to stock up at Jennychem now that you know where to buy de icing salt! We’ll leave you with a few closing thoughts on what salt works best to melt ice below.
Closing Thoughts on What Type of Salt Melts Ice the Fastest
That does it for our guide on the different types of salt for melting ice. We hope you have a solid grasp of what type of salt melts ice the fastest, which is best for environmentally friendliness, and which is most economical.
While calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are best for the most extreme conditions, rock salt remains a reliable and cost-effective choice for milder climates. Meanwhile, potassium chloride or CMA are gentler options.
Whichever you choose, follow our advice on proper application to keep your property safe this winter season. Remember, Jennychem is your one-stop shop for all your winter needs, including the best de-icing salt in the UK.
From pathways to steps, car parks to roadways, trust Jennychem to deliver a de-icing solution that works in any conditions. Tackle winter weather head-on with our products today!