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No one likes slipping on ice but the truth is that some de-icing salt can actually damage your concrete. The winter season is upon us in western Pennsylvania which means temperatures have dropped and ice is forming. Wether its new or older concrete, its at risk so find out the different kinds of salt in this quick guide!
A common misconception is that the salt melts the ice but it actually alters the freezing point of the water making it more difficult to freeze. Water freezes at 32° F and salt typically becomes less effective below 15°F. This means that even if you put salt on your driveway or sidewalk, the temperature could drop low enough leaving you with plenty of ice. The faster the salt dissolves and forms a brine, the faster it will melt the ice. You should note, the temperature range at which the salt works varies depending on the type and the concentration of each manufacturer.
This type is the cheapest and most common option. It can also cause major damage to concrete. The salt itself doesn’t break the concrete, it makes it more likely for the water to melt and refreeze in cracks which widen and break the concrete. This salt is effective to about 20°F. It’s also important to note that this type of salt can cause harm to humans and animals if ingested. It is also not safe for plants.
Calcium chloride is more effective at melting ice and can be used at lower temperatures down to -25°F. Its hygroscopic properties allow it to form a brine much faster than other ice melters and cause it to attract moisture from its surroundings. It is also less corrosive and has a lower environmental impact than rock salt.
Magnesium chloride is becoming increasingly popular because some believe that it is the safer alternative to its sodium based cousin, rock salt. It’s considered safe to use around plants and animals. In addition to its environmental benefits, this salt is fast acting and very effective in temperatures down to 0° F. When used as directed, magnesium chloride leaves behind little residue which is important in high traffic areas. Although this option is less likely to damage your concrete, it is however typically slightly more expensive.
Also known as CMA, this type of melter is also environmentally friendly and offers a low risk of corrosion. This option is however limited in its effectiveness of extremely cold temperatures as it works best at temperatures about 20°F. This option does require more time to achieve desired ice-melting effect and is not ideal for heavy snow. CMA can also be more expensive than other options which may be a drawback for budget-conscious users.
Our professional team at Graycar Contracting is dedicated to helping customers just like you with all of your concrete needs. Wether its installing new concrete, repairing or replacing existing concrete or preparing you for the winter months with protective sealants, our team has you covered. Investing in professional services can enhance your property’s value and prevent avoidable damage. Contact us today to learn more about our concrete services.
