Snow and Ice Melt FAQs: What You Need to Know Before Winter Storms
If you’ve ever considered how ice melt works, how long it takes, and which product is best for your business, you’re not alone. As a trusted partner in winter defense, Gunther Salt Company is answering the most common snow and ice melt questions so you stay safe all season long.
What melts ice the fastest?
Of all products on the market, salt melts ice the fastest. Salt products lower the freezing point of water and withstand extreme temperatures to ensure safety after a storm.
However, chemical composition determines speed. Before treating slick surfaces, consider the most effective temperature ranges for each Gunther Salt product:
Ice Control Salt: Effective at temperatures above 5°F.
Blue Blast: Effective at temperatures above 0°F.
Heat Blast: Effective at temperatures above -5° F.
Calcium Chloride Pellets: Effective at temperatures above -30° F.
Magnesium Chloride Pellets: Effective at temperatures above -30° F.
If your goal is speed, calcium chloride pellets attract moisture, generate significant heat while dissolving, and produce more ions that disrupt the bonds in ice — making it a good ice melt for rapid results.
However, as a more expensive ice melt blend, calcium chloride is typically used in small spaces, like entryways to buildings and homes. For larger surface areas, ice melt blends like Blue Blast and Heat Blast are recommended.
Are there any alternatives to salt?
There are many winter safety solutions, but popular alternatives to snow and ice melt products often have significant drawbacks.
Sand. Sand is used to provide traction on slippery surfaces. Some even claim that it absorbs the sun’s heat to melt ice. But sand doesn’t dissolve — meaning property owners will need to clean it up after a storm passes.
Kitty litter. Kitty litter is also used for traction, but it clumps when it gets wet. Like sand, kitty litter requires extensive cleanup.
Rubbing alcohol + dish soap. A mixture of rubbing alcohol and dish soap will lower the freezing point of water — but it won’t work in extreme temperatures. The mixture is generally less effective than a good ice melt product.
Beet juice. Beet juice is often paired with salt to increase its effectiveness. However, it may fuel algae blooms, leave behind a sticky residue, and stain surfaces.
What surfaces can I use ice melt on?
Most salt and ice melt blends may be safely used on cured concrete, asphalt, brick, and many other common surfaces.
You should avoid applying snow and ice melt products to:
Newer concrete. Concrete that is less than a year old is still curing. It has a higher water content, making it more susceptible to damage.
Metal. Salt is corrosive and may break down protective layers on metal, causing it to rust faster than normal.
Vegetation. Salt damages plants by causing dehydration and displacing nutrients — leading to stunted growth, leaf scorch, and even death.
Areas near waterways. In large quantities, salt disrupts the chemical balance of water. As such, it should not be used in areas where it will run into waterways.
Wood. Some salt products may damage the finish of wood. When clearing a deck, it’s better to opt for a good, wood-safe ice melt containing calcium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate.
Surface compatibility varies by product. Always reference the label on your bag of ice melt before application.Sweeping up excess product and discarding it is recommended post melting.
Should I put ice melt down before it snows?
Yes. Putting ice melt down before it snows creates a brine barrier that prevents ice formation. This allows you to easily shovel snow after a storm.
If a storm occurs unexpectedly, you can still use snow and ice melt products afterward — it just takes more work. You must first shovel, then apply ice melt to the ground. This will melt the final layer of ice and prevent it from refreezing as the temperature drops.
How long does salt take to melt ice?
Once you sprinkle salt on ice, it starts working immediately. Thin layers of ice may melt within a few minutes, while thicker ice or cold conditions may lengthen the process.
Generally, you will see results within 15-30 minutes of your first application.
How long does ice melt last once applied?
Typically, ice melt products remain effective for a few hours to a few days after application. But longevity depends heavily on product type.
Rock salt may get diluted and wash away as more snow falls. Meanwhile, specialty blends may absorb moisture and leave a film on the road, creating residual protection against inclement weather.
To help your snow and ice melt products last longer, we recommend that you:
Store each bag of ice melt in a dry, airtight container.
If possible, apply your product the day before a storm — otherwise, shovel snow before applying.
Spread a thin, even base layer directly to the ground.
Add additional layers as needed.
Can I use water softener salt as ice melt?
In a pinch, you can use water softener salts as ice melt. Many water-softening salts contain sodium chloride: the same chemical component in many popular ice melt products.
However, it’s important to note that using water softening salt as ice melt has drawbacks. Water softening salt is more expensive than rock salt. Additionally, they are made of larger crystals — making them difficult to spread and slow to dissolve.
We recommend purchasing a good ice melt for ease of use and reliable results.
Stock up on Snow and Ice Melt
You likely have one last question: how can I stock up on snow and ice melt products before winter weather strikes? The answer is simple. Place an order with Gunther Salt Company today.
For more information on products, contact our team at sales@gunthersalt.com or orders@gunthersalt.com. Alternatively, orders may be placed by calling 314-241-7075 or 800-873-7258
