Best Salt For Ice On Concrete (2024 Updated)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

As the winter season approaches, it is essential to prepare for the snowy and icy conditions that come along with it. One of the most common problems during winters is the formation of ice on concrete surfaces, which can be hazardous and cause slip and fall accidents. To prevent such incidents, many people use salt to melt the ice on their driveways, walkways, and other concrete surfaces. However, not all salts are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can lead to damage to the concrete or harm to the environment. Here are some key points to consider when selecting the best salt for ice on concrete.

1. Type of salt: There are different types of salts available, such as rock salt, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and potassium chloride. Each salt has its unique properties and effectiveness in melting ice.

2. Temperature range: Some salts work best in specific temperature ranges. For example, rock salt is effective at temperatures above 20°F, while calcium chloride can work at much lower temperatures.

3. Environmental impact: Some salts, such as rock salt, can harm plants, animals, and water sources. Eco-friendly alternatives, like calcium magnesium acetate, are available that have a lower impact on the environment.

4. Cost: The cost of the salt can vary, and it is essential to consider the effectiveness of the product before choosing a cheaper option.

5. Concrete damage: Some salts can damage concrete surfaces over time, causing cracks and erosion. It is crucial to choose a salt that is safe for concrete surfaces.

By considering these key points, you can choose the best salt for your needs and ensure that your concrete surfaces are safe and protected during the winter months.

10 Best Salt For Ice On Concrete

1. Industrial-Strength, Salt-Free Snow Melter For Concrete And Pet Safety – 10lb Jug

Safe Thaw Industrial Strength Concrete-Safe Pet Paw-Safe Snow & Ice Melter is a highly effective and safe ice melting solution for commercial and residential use. This product is 100% salt-chloride-free and contains a traction agent that provides excellent grip and slip resistance. It is ideal for use on any surface, including asphalt, roofs, and concrete.

One of the main benefits of Safe Thaw ice melt is that it is pet-safe and environmentally friendly. It is safe to use around plants, dogs, pets, and children, and it won't damage concrete or harm land and waterways. Even if ingested accidentally, it poses no threat to pets.

In addition to being pet-friendly, Safe Thaw ice melt is also fast-acting. Its ice melting crystals prevent water molecules from reforming, which destabilizes and melts ice particles in as little as 10 minutes. Even in sub-zero temperatures, Safe Thaw crystal leaches out a de-icing liquid to speed up the melting process, making it ideal for harsh winter conditions.

Safe Thaw ice melt is also non-corrosive and has a long shelf life. It is non-conductive, meaning that there is no risk of damage to delicate machinery or short circuits. The concentrated formula assures maximum effectiveness from season to season, providing instant melting without worrying about property damage.

With a spread rate of 100 square feet per pound, Safe Thaw ice melt offers excellent value for money. Its safe formula won't harm eyes or skin, making it suitable for use around families and pets. This product comes in a 10-pound jug, making it easy to store and handle.

Overall, Safe Thaw Industrial Strength Concrete-Safe Pet Paw-Safe Snow & Ice Melter is a reliable and effective ice melting solution that is safe for pets and the environment. Its fast-acting formula, excellent spread rate, and long shelf life make it a great investment for both commercial and residential use.

2. Safe Thaw: 100% Salt/chloride-Free, Pet-Safe Snow & Ice Melter. Use On Any Surface. 30 Lb. Flexipail.

Safe Thaw Industrial Strength 100% Salt/Chloride-Free, Pet/Paw-Safe Snow & Ice Melter and Traction Agent is a high-quality product that is designed to effectively melt snow and ice while ensuring the safety of pets, plants, and children. This innovative ice melt is non-corrosive and won't damage concrete surfaces, making it an ideal choice for use on a variety of surfaces, including lawns, decking materials, asphalt, and pavers.

One of the standout features of Safe Thaw is that it is completely salt and chloride-free. This makes it a more environmentally-friendly option compared to traditional ice melt products that can be harmful to plants, pets, and waterways. Safe Thaw is also safe for ingestion, which means that if a pet accidentally ingests it, it won't harm them.

Another benefit of Safe Thaw is that it is effective in ultra-cold conditions. The crystals leach out a deicing liquid that speeds up the melting process, even in subzero temperatures. This means that you can rely on Safe Thaw to melt ice and snow, even in the harshest winter conditions.

One of the most impressive features of Safe Thaw is that it can melt ice in just 10 minutes. The ice melting crystals prevent water molecules from reforming, which destabilizes and melts ice particles quickly. This means that you won't have to wait around for hours for the ice to melt, which is particularly important in areas where ice and snow can cause hazards on walkways and driveways.

Safe Thaw is also incredibly easy to use. The product comes in a 30-pound flexicube pail, which covers 100 square feet per pound. This means that you can use the product over a large area, making it ideal for both residential and commercial use. Additionally, the safe formula won't harm eyes or skin, making it a safe choice for anyone who comes into contact with the product.

In summary, Safe Thaw Industrial Strength 100% Salt/Chloride-Free, Pet/Paw-Safe Snow & Ice Melter and Traction Agent is a high-quality product that offers a range of benefits. It is safe for pets, plants, and children, effective in ultra-cold conditions, and can melt ice in just 10 minutes. The product is easy to use and won't harm eyes or skin, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to remove snow and ice safely and effectively.

3. Fast-Acting And Safe Ice Melt Pellets (1 Gallon) For Concrete, Asphalt, And Wood. Non-Corrosive And Made With Pure Original Ingredients.

Pure Original Ingredients Ice Melt Pellets are a fast-acting and powerful solution for melting ice and snow from sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, and other surfaces. These pellets are safe to use on concrete, asphalt, and wood, and are non-corrosive, making them ideal for use on a variety of surfaces.

These ice melt pellets are effective in temperatures as low as –25ºF, making them a reliable choice for winter weather conditions. They are formulated with pure ingredients and contain no additives, ensuring that they are safe for the environment and for use around pets and children.

Packaged in Utah, USA, Pure Original Ingredients Ice Melt Pellets are a high-quality solution for melting ice and snow. They are easy to use, simply spread them over the surface you want to melt the ice from, and wait for them to start working. The pellets will quickly dissolve the ice and snow, leaving behind a clean and safe surface to walk or drive on.

Because Pure Original Ingredients Ice Melt Pellets are non-corrosive, they are safe to use on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, and wood. This makes them a versatile choice for melting ice and snow from sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, and other surfaces.

In addition to their effectiveness and safety, Pure Original Ingredients Ice Melt Pellets are also environmentally friendly. They are formulated with pure ingredients and contain no additives, ensuring that they are safe for the environment and for use around pets and children.

Overall, Pure Original Ingredients Ice Melt Pellets are a reliable and effective solution for melting ice and snow from a variety of surfaces. They are safe, easy to use, and environmentally friendly, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality ice melt solution for winter weather conditions.

4. Just For Pets Snow & Ice Melter: Safe For Pets & Paws, No Toxic Chlorides Or Rock Salt, Fast Acting, 9 Lb. Jug.

JUST FOR PETS Snow & Ice Melter is a safe and effective solution to melting snow, ice, and frost that is specifically designed for pets. This product is chloride-free, which means it does not contain any toxic chlorides that can cause severe gastrointestinal reactions or skin irritation for pets. The product is also salt-free, which ensures that it is not painful for pets to walk on.

The Snow & Ice Melter contains soft, round pellets that are easy on pets' paws and provide two times the coverage of rock salt. The pellets are designed to work on contact, generating heat instantly to speed up the deicing and melting process. The product is safe to use at low temperatures (-15 degrees C) and is compatible with any spreaders, including rotary spreaders.

JUST FOR PETS Snow & Ice Melter is safe for all pets' paws, skin, and eyes, as well as for children and the environment. It does not contain any harmful chemicals and will not chemically attack concrete or asphalt. It can be safely used on sidewalks, patios, porches, wood decks, lawns, driveways, roofs, brick, stone, parking lots, and will not damage interior flooring or rugs, bushes, flower beds, grass, shrubs, or trees.

This product has been formulated to be effective and safe, and the manufacturers are confident that users will be satisfied with its performance. They offer a 100% customer satisfaction money-back guarantee, so if users are not satisfied, they can contact the company with their order ID, and the company will refund their money without any questions asked.

Overall, JUST FOR PETS Snow & Ice Melter is a reliable and safe solution to melting snow and ice without causing harm to pets, children, or the environment. It is fast-acting and easy to use, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who want to keep their pets safe during the winter months.

5. Traction Magic – Instant Grip For Snow & Ice, Chemical-Free, Safe For People & Pets – 1.75 Lb Can

Traction Magic Walk on Ice for Snow & Ice is a high-quality product that provides instant grip and prevents slips or falls on sidewalks or walkways. It is an excellent solution for anyone looking to free their car from snow or ice. Moreover, it is child and pet safe, making it an all-around safe option for households.

One of the key benefits of Traction Magic is its all-natural mineral blend, which makes it 100% free of harmful salts, chloride, and chemicals. This feature makes it safe for people, pets, and plants. It is composed of a unique mineral blend that is safe on eyes, skin, paws, and even if ingested.

Traction Magic works at all temperatures and thicknesses of ice, including black ice. Its superior absorbency makes it an ideal product for cleaning up messes from animal waste, bodily fluids, oils, paints, and other viscous liquids. It is also surface safe, making it suitable for use on all surfaces, including decking, new concrete, pavers, and more.

Another significant benefit of Traction Magic is that it creates an instant skid-free, slip-free surface on ice and snow for foot traffic, pet traffic, car traffic, and more. It is an anti-skid solution that provides excellent traction, ensuring safety for all.

The product's excellent spread rate is another feature that makes it stand out. Users can use it sparingly while still getting excellent traction on large areas for long winters. Additionally, Traction Magic is non-corrosive and non-conductive, meaning it will not cause any damage to delicate machinery and will not short circuit expensive equipment.

In conclusion, Traction Magic Walk on Ice for Snow & Ice is an all-natural, safe, and effective solution for preventing slips and falls on icy surfaces. Its unique mineral blend makes it 100% safe for people, pets, and plants, and it is surface safe, making it suitable for use on all surfaces. With its instant grip, excellent spread rate, and superior absorbency, Traction Magic is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and safe anti-skid solution.

6. Eco-Friendly And Pet-Friendly Starfish Extract Ice Melt – Fast Acting And Effective At -31℉, Safe On Concrete, Driveway And Sidewalk (33lb)

ECO-ST Starfish Extract Ice Melt is a revolutionary deicer that is safe for the environment, pets, and surfaces. It is an eco-friendly solution made from upcycling harmful starfish into an effective ice melt. This product has been certified safe with only 0.8% corrosion rate, making it safe for driveways, sidewalks, and front yards.

In addition to being safe, ECO-ST Starfish Extract Ice Melt is also fast-acting and effective. It has a bead-type coating that makes it safe for pets' paws while securing faster and stronger melting performance. This deicer is powerful enough to melt snow to -30F, making it perfect for even the coldest winter days.

One of the main advantages of ECO-ST Starfish Extract Ice Melt is that it is pet-friendly. This means that you don't have to worry about your pets getting hurt when they walk on the treated areas. The bead-type coating is gentle on their paws, making it a great option for pet owners who want to keep their pets safe.

Another advantage of this deicer is that it is an eco-friendly solution. Upcycling harmful starfish into an effective ice melt is a great way to reduce waste and protect the environment. This product is a sustainable solution that helps to keep our planet healthy.

ECO-ST Starfish Extract Ice Melt is easy to use. Simply sprinkle it on the surface that you want to treat and wait for it to start melting the ice and snow. It works quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to your regular activities as soon as possible.

Overall, if you are looking for a safe, effective, and eco-friendly deicer, ECO-ST Starfish Extract Ice Melt is the perfect solution for you. It is pet-friendly, fast-acting, and powerful enough to melt even the toughest ice and snow. Plus, it is an eco-friendly solution that helps to protect the environment while keeping your surfaces safe and clear.

7. 9 Lb Jug Of Superio Pet Safe Calcium Chloride Ice Melt Pellets For Concrete And Driveway Snow And Ice Removal.

Superio Calcium Chloride Ice Melt is a highly effective and pet-safe ice melt salt that quickly melts snow and ice on concrete or driveways. It comes in a 9 LB jug and is designed to generate exothermic heat that penetrates even through thick snow and ice, making it 4x faster than rock salt.

This ice melt salt is perfect for use with spreader equipment, thanks to its round pellet design. The pellets spread evenly over the desired area, making it ideal for covering larger areas and to spread the ice pellets even faster and with less effort.

Calcium Chloride Pellets lower the re-freezing temperature of melted ice, preventing ice from building up again. This makes it perfect for use in parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, walkways, porches, and patios. It can be used in temperatures as low as -40 degrees, making it highly effective in extreme weather conditions.

To use Superio Calcium Chloride Ice Melt, it is recommended to apply it at the beginning of a snowstorm if possible. The pellets should be spread evenly over the desired area, and the exothermic heat generated by the calcium chloride pellets will instantly melt ice, frost, and snow with maximum safety and little effort.

This ice melt salt is also safe for pets, making it an ideal choice for pet owners. It is formulated to be non-toxic and non-irritating to the skin and paws of pets, ensuring that they can enjoy the outdoors without any harm.

In conclusion, Superio Calcium Chloride Ice Melt is a highly effective and pet-safe ice melt salt that quickly melts snow and ice on concrete or driveways. Its round pellet design makes it perfect for use with spreader equipment, and it can be used in temperatures as low as -40 degrees. It is also safe for pets, making it an ideal choice for pet owners.

8. Pet Safe Liquid Ice Melt Spray For Sidewalks, Driveways, Decks, And Concrete. Covers More Ground Easier Than Salt Pellets. Made In The Usa. 1 Gallon.

This pet-friendly ice melt product is an effective and easy solution for preventing ice buildup on various surfaces, including sidewalks, driveways, decks, and concrete. It comes in a one-gallon jug and is made in the USA.

One of the key benefits of this ice melt is that it can prevent freezing down to -30 degrees when applied up to 24 hours before a freeze. By creating a thin layer over the desired area, it seals and protects the surface from ice accumulation. It can also melt existing ice and prevent a refreeze.

Unlike traditional salt crystals or pellets, this liquid ice melt is safe for pets, shoes, plants, and flooring. It won't damage or harm these surfaces when tracked inside. The mess-free application process is also a significant advantage. By pouring the liquid into a pump sprayer and spraying it on the surface, it eliminates the mess of crystals or pellets being tracked through the house, office, or business.

Another benefit of this ice melt is that it stores indefinitely, as it does not have a limited shelf life. This means that you can use it for multiple winters, saving you money over time. However, it's essential to clean the sprayer thoroughly before using it if it's been previously used for other chores.

One gallon of this ice melt covers more ground or roof than a 35-pound bag of salt. By spraying a thin layer, you can effectively prevent ice buildup and ensure safety on your driveway, deck, sidewalks, and pool area.

In summary, this pet-friendly ice melt is an excellent solution for preventing ice buildup on various surfaces. It's easy to apply, mess-free, and safe for pets, shoes, plants, and flooring. It also stores indefinitely, making it a cost-effective option for multiple winters.

9. Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats For Walking On Ice And Snow (1 Pair), Large , Black

The Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats are designed to provide superior traction on snow and ice on all surfaces. These durable traction cleats fit over shoes and boots, making them ideal for those who frequently walk or work in icy or snowy conditions.

The patented Diamond Beads are made from a case-hardened steel alloy strung on steel aircraft cable. These beads offer hundreds of biting edges that grip in all directions, ensuring maximum traction on slippery surfaces. The natural rubber sling remains elastic and secure even in sub-zero temperatures, making it easy to put on and take off while remaining comfortable for prolonged use.

One of the unique features of these cleats is that the beads swivel independently, preventing the buildup of snow and ice. This makes them ideal for transitioning between surfaces like gravel, dirt, and concrete. Whether you are walking on a slippery sidewalk or hiking on a snowy trail, the Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats offer reliable traction and stability.

These cleats are available in various sizes, including S, M, L, XL, and 2XL, making them suitable for most shoes and boots, including insulated footwear. It is important to choose the correct size for a secure fit, as an ill-fitting cleat can be uncomfortable and may not provide adequate traction.

Overall, the Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats are a practical and essential tool for anyone who needs to navigate icy or snowy conditions safely. The combination of durable materials and patented technology ensures maximum traction on all surfaces, making these cleats a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts and workers alike.

10. Women's Stone White Lace-Up Loafers, Size 7 With Comfort And Light-Weight Features.

The Hey Dude Women's Wendy Sox Stone White Size 7 is the perfect addition to any modern-casual shoe collection. With its unique rounded toe design and Flex & Fold feature, this shoe provides complete freedom of movement, promoting healthy feet. It is lightweight, weighing under 5 ounces, making it one of the lightest pairs of shoes available on the market.

The elastic laces allow the shoe to flex with the foot, providing a comfortable and uniform fit. The Hey Dude Wendy is the ideal shoe for women who value comfort and style. The relaxed look and feel of the Wendy enable women to explore their passions and experience new places with the confidence that their feet will be comfortable in any setting.

Moreover, the removable memory foam cushioned insole provides maximum comfort and reduces sweating and odors. The insole is also machine washable, making it easy to maintain the shoe's cleanliness.

The Hey Dude Women's Wendy Sox Stone White Size 7 is perfect for women who are always on the go and for those who love to travel. Its lightweight and comfortable design make it an ideal shoe for any occasion. The high-quality material used to manufacture this shoe ensures that it is durable and will last for a long time.

In conclusion, the Hey Dude Women's Wendy Sox Stone White Size 7 is a fashionable and comfortable shoe that is perfect for women who value style, comfort, and durability. Its unique features make it an instant favorite in any modern-casual shoe collection. Women can confidently wear these shoes while exploring their passions and experiencing new places, knowing that their feet will be comfortable and supported throughout the journey.

Best Salt For Ice On Concrete FAQs

Are there any eco-friendly alternatives to traditional ice-melting salts?

Yes, there are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional ice-melting salts such as rock salt or calcium chloride. Some of the alternatives include:

1. Beet juice or molasses-based products – These products are made from natural and organic materials and are effective in melting ice at temperatures as low as -25°C.

2. Sand or gravel – These materials do not melt ice but provide traction and prevent slipping.

3. Heated mats – These mats use electricity to melt ice and are reusable and energy-efficient.

4. Magnesium chloride – This product is less harmful to the environment than traditional ice-melting salts and is effective at lower temperatures.

5. Calcium magnesium acetate – This product is made from limestone and acetic acid and is biodegradable and less harmful to the environment.

Overall, using eco-friendly alternatives to traditional ice-melting salts can help to reduce the environmental impact and protect natural resources.

Can using the wrong type of salt damage or corrode concrete?

Yes, using the wrong type of salt can damage or corrode concrete. Salt can be used to melt ice on concrete surfaces, but some types of salt can cause damage. For example, using rock salt (sodium chloride) can cause damage to concrete by corroding reinforcing steel, causing cracks, and increasing the porosity of the concrete. Calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are less harmful alternatives that can be used instead of rock salt. These salts are less corrosive and can be effective at lower temperatures. It is important to use the appropriate type of salt for the specific application, as well as to properly clean and maintain concrete surfaces to prevent damage.

Is it safe to use rock salt on concrete surfaces, or are there better alternatives available?

Rock salt can cause damage to concrete surfaces, especially if they are not sealed properly. The salt can seep into the porous surface and cause it to crack or chip away over time. Additionally, the salt can also corrode any metal rebar or reinforcement within the concrete, leading to structural damage.

There are better alternatives to using rock salt on concrete surfaces. These include:

– Calcium chloride: This is a more effective de-icer than rock salt and is less damaging to concrete surfaces. It is also less harmful to plants and animals.

– Magnesium chloride: Similar to calcium chloride, magnesium chloride is an effective de-icer that is less damaging to concrete surfaces.

– Sand: While it does not melt ice, sand can provide traction on slippery surfaces and prevent slips and falls.

Overall, it is best to avoid using rock salt on concrete surfaces and opt for safer alternatives to prevent damage and ensure safety.

What factors should be considered when choosing the best salt for melting ice on concrete?

When choosing the best salt for melting ice on concrete, several factors should be considered. Firstly, environmental impact is essential, as some salts may cause harm to vegetation, animals, and water sources. Secondly, the temperature at which the salt works is crucial; some salts work best at lower temperatures than others. Thirdly, the cost-effectiveness of the salt should be considered. Some salts may be more expensive than others, but they may also be more effective at melting ice, making them more cost-effective in the long run. Fourthly, the corrosive nature of the salt should be considered, as some salts may damage concrete surfaces over time. Finally, the ease of application and the speed at which the salt works should also be considered, as this can affect the efficiency of the melting process.

What type of salt is best for melting ice on concrete surfaces?

The best type of salt for melting ice on concrete surfaces is calcium chloride. This type of salt is effective at low temperatures, works quickly, and is less damaging to concrete than other types of salt. Calcium chloride is also less harmful to vegetation and the environment than other de-icers.

Other types of salt that can be used to melt ice on concrete surfaces include sodium chloride (rock salt) and magnesium chloride. However, these salts can be less effective at lower temperatures and can also cause damage to concrete over time.

It is important to follow instructions carefully when using any type of de-icer on concrete surfaces, as overuse or incorrect application can lead to further damage. It is also recommended to sweep up excess salt after the ice has melted to prevent damage to nearby plants or the environment.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment