Ice Melts FAQs
Explore our in-depth guide on two of our exceptional winter solutions – Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt and Calcium Chloride Ice Melt. Whether you're preparing for icy conditions at home or managing winter challenges in an industrial setting, these products are crafted to meet your needs. Below, you'll find answers to common questions regarding the application, effectiveness, and unique features of our Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt and Calcium Chloride Ice Melt. We believe in providing you with the knowledge necessary to choose the right ice melt solution for your specific requirements. If you have any further questions or need personalized guidance, our dedicated customer support team is ready to assist you.
What's is Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt? Magnesium Chloride is considered (by some) as the best total ice-Melter that is less corrosive on metal surfaces, protects concrete from spalling, is less toxic and environmentally as safe as Calcium Chloride and much less corrosive than Sodium Chloride (rock salt).
What's is Calcium Chloride Ice Melt? Calcium chloride is an effective deicer, working at temperatures below most competing products, and is significantly more effective than sodium chloride because of its ability to extract moisture from its surroundings and to cause exothermic or heat generating reactions.
How do these products melt ice? Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride work by lowering the freezing point of water, causing ice to melt at temperatures below freezing.
Are these products safe for concrete surfaces? Yes, Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride are safe for use on concrete surfaces when used as directed.
How do these products compare to rock salt in terms of effectiveness? Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride are generally more effective at lower temperatures than rock salt.
Which product is the most pet-friendly ice melt? Both magnesium chloride and calcium chloride are pet-friendly since they create heat (exothermic) to melt ice, thereby reducing the chance of frostbite. Magnesium chloride is less irritating than calcium chloride, therefore magnesium chloride is less damaging to pets’ paws.
How to use deicers properly? All deicers need to be used after shoveling and sweeping has removed as much snow and ice as possible and after the threat of additional snowfall has ended. The deicer will melt down to the surface and allow manual removal of the final layer of snow or ice. Avoid shoveling snow that contains deicers directly onto plants. Whenever possible, remove snow and ice manually and then spread an abrasive. Always use deicers sparingly.
Can these products be used on asphalt surfaces? Yes, Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride can be used on asphalt surfaces, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and frequency.
How long do these products last once applied? The duration of the effectiveness of Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride can vary depending on the temperature and the amount of precipitation.
Do these products leave a residue after they melt the ice? Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride may leave a white residue after melting ice, but this is typically not a problem and will dissipate over time.
Are these products environmentally friendly? Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride are considered less harmful to the environment compared to other ice melting agents.
Can these products be used to melt snow? Yes, Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride can be used to melt snow, but they are typically more effective at lower temperatures.
How should these products be stored? Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and other chemicals.
Can these products be used in food preparation? No, Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride should not be used in food preparation as they are not intended for consumption.
Are these products flammable? No, Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride are not flammable.
Can these products harm vegetation? Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride can be harmful to vegetation if applied in excessive amounts, so it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and frequency.
Can these products be mixed with other ice melting products? Yes, Calcium Chloride and Magnesium Chloride can be mixed with other ice melting products, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and frequency, and to be careful not to mix them with incompatible chemicals.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be harmful to vehicle surfaces? When used as directed, it's generally safe, but prompt rinsing is recommended to minimize potential impact.
How does Calcium Chloride Ice Melt compare to traditional rock salt in terms of performance? Calcium Chloride Ice Melt is generally more effective than traditional rock salt, especially at lower temperatures.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be used on wooden decks? While generally safe, excessive use may impact wood surfaces. Prompt rinsing is recommended.
Is Calcium Chloride Ice Melt effective on sleet and freezing rain? Yes, Calcium Chloride Ice Melt is effective in melting sleet and freezing rain.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be used on pavers and delicate stone surfaces? While generally safe, testing in a small area is advisable to ensure compatibility with specific surfaces.
How does Calcium Chloride Ice Melt affect the pH levels of soil? Minimal impact is expected, but excessive use may lead to a slight decrease in pH levels over time.
Is Calcium Chloride Ice Melt safe for use on roofs with gutter systems? Yes, it can be used on roofs with gutters, but clearing gutters of debris before application is recommended.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be used on sports surfaces like tennis courts? It's generally safe, but testing in a small area is advisable to ensure compatibility with specific sports surfaces.
How does Calcium Chloride Ice Melt compare to other de-icing agents? Calcium Chloride is known for its rapid action and effectiveness, often outperforming other de-icing agents.
What is the recommended application frequency for Calcium Chloride Ice Melt? The frequency depends on weather conditions, but reapplication may be necessary during prolonged icy periods.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be used on wood surfaces? While generally safe, excessive use may lead to some impact on wood surfaces. Rinse promptly after use.
Does Calcium Chloride Ice Melt generate heat during the melting process? Yes, the exothermic reaction generates heat, aiding in the melting of ice and snow.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be used with snow blowers or plows? Yes, it can be used in conjunction with snow blowers or plows for enhanced snow removal.
Is Calcium Chloride Ice Melt effective in preventing refreezing? While it helps prevent refreezing, factors like temperature fluctuations and additional precipitation can influence its effectiveness.
How does Calcium Chloride Ice Melt affect footwear and flooring materials? Minimal impact is expected, but wiping footwear and cleaning floors after use is recommended.
Does Calcium Chloride Ice Melt work on black ice? Yes, Calcium Chloride is effective in melting black ice due to its rapid action.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be used in conjunction with sand or other abrasives? Yes, using Calcium Chloride with sand can enhance traction and further improve melting efficiency.
Can Calcium Chloride Ice Melt be used in residential settings? Absolutely, Calcium Chloride Ice Melt is suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
Does Calcium Chloride Ice Melt work on thick ice layers? Yes, Calcium Chloride is effective on thick ice layers, but breaking up large accumulations before application is recommended for optimal results.
How does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt work? Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt works by attracting moisture and creating a brine solution, which lowers the freezing point of water, melting ice and snow.
How does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt compare to traditional rock salt in terms of performance? Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt is generally more effective than traditional rock salt, especially at lower temperatures, and is considered safer for the environment and pets.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used on wooden decks? While generally safe, excessive use may impact wood surfaces. Prompt rinsing is recommended.
Is Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt effective on sleet and freezing rain? Yes, Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt is effective in melting sleet and freezing rain.
How quickly does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt work on thick ice layers? Its effectiveness on thick ice layers may vary, but it is generally considered capable of melting through substantial accumulations.
How does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt affect the pH levels of soil? Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt is generally considered less harmful to soil pH compared to some other de-icing agents.
Is Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt safe for use on roofs with gutter systems? Yes, it can be used on roofs with gutters, but clearing gutters of debris before application is recommended.
What is the cost-effectiveness of Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt compared to alternatives? While it may be relatively more expensive, its effectiveness and environmental benefits often justify the cost.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used on sports surfaces like tennis courts? It's generally safe, but testing in a small area is advisable to ensure compatibility with specific sports surfaces.
Is Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt suitable for use in commercial settings? Absolutely, Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt is suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be harmful to vehicle surfaces? When used as directed, it's generally safe, but prompt rinsing is recommended to minimize potential impact.
What is the recommended application frequency for Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt? The frequency depends on weather conditions, but reapplication may be necessary during prolonged icy periods.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used on wood surfaces? While generally safe, excessive use may lead to some impact on wood surfaces. Rinse promptly after use.
Does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt generate heat during the melting process? Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt does not generate as much heat as some other de-icers, but it is effective in melting ice and snow.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used with snow blowers or plows? Yes, it can be used in conjunction with snow blowers or plows for enhanced snow removal.
Does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt work on all types of snow? Yes, Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt is effective on various types of snow, including wet and packed snow.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used on roofs to prevent ice dams? Yes, it can be applied on roofs to help prevent the formation of ice dams.
What is the shelf life of Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt? The shelf life varies, but when stored in a cool, dry place, Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt can have a long shelf life.
How does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt compare to rock salt in terms of effectiveness? Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt is generally more effective than rock salt, especially at lower temperatures.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used in conjunction with sand or other abrasives? Yes, using Magnesium Chloride with sand can enhance traction and further improve melting efficiency.
Is Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt safe for use around children? When used as directed, Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt is generally safe. Store it securely to prevent accidental ingestion by children.
How long does the melting effect of Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt last? The melting effect can last for an extended period, but it may vary based on factors like temperature and precipitation.
Is Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt environmentally friendly? Magnesium Chloride is considered more environmentally friendly than some other ice melt products, as it has lower environmental impacts.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used for pre-treatment before a snowstorm? Yes, pre-treating surfaces with Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt can help prevent the bonding of ice and snow.
What makes Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt different from other ice melt products? Magnesium Chloride is known for being less harmful to the environment and safer for pets while remaining effective.
Can Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt be used on all types of surfaces? It is generally safe for use on various surfaces, including concrete, asphalt, and some metals.
How quickly does Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt start working? Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt begins working immediately upon contact with ice or snow.
Is Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt safe for pets? Yes, Magnesium Chloride is generally considered safe for pets when used as directed. It is less harmful than some other ice melt products.