Chloride Vs Non-Chloride: What Kind Of Ice Melt Is Best For Concrete
Ice melts are a necessary part of winter. They prevent the buildup of ice and snow on your driveway, making it safer for you, your loved ones, and your pets. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of ice melt is best for concrete —chloride or non-chloride—this article is for you!
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What Kind Of Ice Melt Is Best For Concrete
Chloride-Based Ice Melt
Chloride-based ice melts are a type of salt. They work by dissolving into the water around ice and snow, lowering its freezing point so that it melts more easily and quickly. Chlorides are salts. They can be naturally occurring or synthetically produced. The main ingredient in most types of ice melt is sodium chloride, also known as rock salt or Halite.
Most chlorides are cheap, pollute your environment, corrode concrete and metal, and can damage the skin if handled incorrectly. And because they can get into our lakes, rivers, and streams, their use is regulated in many municipalities. Some examples of commonly used chlorides include calcium chloride (CaCl2), magnesium chloride (MgCl2), sodium chloride (NaCl), and potassium chloride (KCl).
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Why Does Ice Melt Damage Concrete
Ice melting can damage concrete because it’s a chemical reaction between the ice and concrete. The water in the ice mixes with the calcium hydroxide in the concrete, causing a chemical reaction that breaks down bonds between molecules. This causes erosion, which is what damages the concrete.
Non-Chloride-Based Ice Melt
If you want to take care of the environment, your dog’s paws, and concrete at once, use a non-chloride ice melter. Non-chlorides don’t contain any chloride (i.e., chlorine) or magnesium. They contain other natural elements. They’re safer for pets and the environment to handle.
One such Ice melt is Safe Thaw. It is also safer for metal surfaces like concrete slabs and steel railings. Chlorides can corrode metals like iron over time; while this isn’t typically an issue when using it on driveways or sidewalks (you won’t be walking on them), it’s still worth noting that non-chloride alternatives don’t have this side effect either!
Fortunately, there are now traction agents on the market that can be used for immediate traction. Traction Magic by Gaia is a great choice because it uses eco-friendly natural ingredients with no harmful chemicals or additives. It’s safe for concrete and is 0% corrosive or messy unlike its alternatives—sand and kitty litter.
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Conclusion
So, what kind of ice melt is best for concrete? When it comes to choosing an ice melter for your driveway, there are a lot of factors to consider. You’ll want something that will melt away ice and snow quickly without harming the environment or pets, but still, be effective at keeping your family safe from slippery conditions. Some products may use chemicals that can damage your concrete; others contain harmless natural ingredients. Whatever product you choose, always read labels carefully before purchasing any household chemical so that you know exactly what goes into making each one!
Other Ice Melt Products
Safe Paw
The Original and the #1 Pet and Child Safe Ice Melt for over 20 years. Guaranteed environmentally safe – will not harm waterways and sensitive wetlands. Safe Paw can change how winter affects our planet.
Safe Thaw
Imagine an ice melt you can put down and never worry about. It won’t harm pets, kids and your property. That’s Safe Thaw. Unlike anything else on the market, Ice and Snow Management You Can Trust.
