There are many varieties of de-icing products on the market. It is not easy to know which to choose or even know how to choose the right one. Each de-icing agent has unique properties that pertain to temperature, surface, or application. It is the responsibility of a snow plow contractor or landscape professional to be well versed in the different de-icing products. At FSI, we carry a plethora of de-icing agents, bulk salt, sand, and much more.  Knowledge is key; in this article, we will be looking at each product and its unique qualities.

Lake Effect Ice Melter

Meltco has developed this particular product. The unique quality it possesses is referred to as an exothermic formula.  An exothermic de-icing agent creates heat once it is applied to a surface.  Lake Effect Ice Melter is great for sidewalks, walkways, and pathways as it provides traction. Made perfectly for easy spreading and works effectively for low temperatures. Lastly, to prevent over-salting, Lake Effect Ice Melter is tinted with a biodegradable purple color indicator. With so many benefits, it would be hard not to choose Lake Effect Ice Melter.

Sifto Xtreme Ice Melter

Similar to Meltco Lake Effect Ice Melter, Sifto Xtreme Ice Melter significantly melts ice on contact by creating heat. The reaction then turns into a brine solution. Therefore, preventing refreezing. The unique quality that this product carries would be its ability to work through -31C temperatures and its gentle effects on concrete.  We are accustomed to hearing the adverse effects of de-icing agents on concrete. At FSI, we considered all matters. A variety of products are chosen to ensure safety while keeping de-icing agents’ impact on concrete in mind.

Bulk Thawrox Treated Salt

Bulk Thawrox Treated Salt combines all exquisite qualities one would look for in a de-icing agent. It provides the performance of both rock salt and liquid de-icing solution.  The product adheres to roadway surfaces resulting in less bounce of salt material. Therefore, where it is placed, it stays. Bulk Thawrox Salt performs well and lasts longer in -15C temperatures making it perfect for our Canadian winters. Snowplow contractors gravitate towards this particular product for the following reasons. It has received the Design for the Environment label by the EPA for being natural and environmentally friendly. Bulk Thawrox Treated Salt also has the ability to reduce corrosion on equipment and roadway hardware up to 50%.

Calcium Chloride

Calcium chloride quickly melts ice and snow in comparison to other agents. Calcium chloride produces heat, making it practical for forming brine on contact, therefore lowering the freezing point of water.

Bulk Salt

Tried and true, its reaction with ice and snow on the surface creates heat. The result, melting action.  Salt has been the number one choice for many years and continues to do so as it lowers the freezing point of water. Salt has always proven itself as an effective solution for fighting off the harsh winter elements.

So many options to be found at FSI Landscape Supply.  Tackle winter weather head-on with FSI.