Sleet, snow, and chilling rain are common winter weather conditions in cold regions. Winter precipitation may rapidly turn walkways and sidewalks dangerous when the temperature decreases. Because of this, it is crucial for facility maintenance workers and property managers to use the proper ice melt to reduce the chance of slipping and falling injuries. The different qualities to look for while choosing a road salt include:

Composition

The melting capability of every salt depends on its purity levels. Therefore, you must check the chloride concentration before buying de-icing salt. The salt will be purer, work better, and leave less residue if the chloride concentration is higher. Based on its composition, salt can be classified as:

• Rock Salt contains around 85% sodium chloride along with calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sulfate. When rock salt dissolves, the most chloride is released. Metal and concrete can be harmed by chloride. It can also contaminate lakes, rivers, and streams.
• Calcium chloride appears as white granules that are round. It provides a more secure and bare pavement.
• Potassium chloride causes no harm to vegetation but has a comparatively small melt volume potential.

Melting capabilities – temperature

The optimal de-icing salt depends on the climate of a region. Ice melts either exothermically or endothermically, depending on its chemical composition. For example, Sodium chloride and potassium chloride melt endothermically by absorbing heat from the environment; this choice works better in regions with milder winters. Calcium chloride and magnesium chloride melt exothermically, perfect for exceptionally cold areas.

Grain size

Another crucial factor to consider when selecting de-icing salt is grain size. Both fine and coarse grains of salt are available. Fine-grain salts work more rapidly but quickly lose their effectiveness. Coarse grain salts, though they take time to work, do so for a more extended period. Go for coarse grain if prevention is your first priority. You can also use salt with finer granularity, but you must also use the brine solution.

Extra tips to consider

Some other factors to consider while choosing de-icing salt include:

Damage control

De-icing can cause damage to structural components and the environment. Anti-caking compounds can be added to de-icing salts to lessen their corrosive properties.

Longevity 

De-icing salts are perishable, so their shelf life begins to run out the moment the package is opened. Choose a product with a good seal so the product will be protected, even if you keep it outside. Modern packaging protects items from moisture and ultraviolet rays, extending their shelf life through the following season.

Easy to apply 

It would be best if you also chose a bulk salt that is easy to apply. People frequently begin distributing at one end but need to remember where they started. It is simple to determine where you have put salt first when it is readily dispersible, making it possible to finish the application quickly.

Low bounce rate

Having a low bounce rate reduces the amount of salt needed for de-icing. Since less salt is used, it is economically efficient and beneficial for the environment. Bulk Thawrox Treated Salt is a product with a low bounce rate that can suit your de-icing needs. Bulk Thawrox Treated Salt adheres to surfaces for de-icing the roads and facilitates safe driving.

Need more information on de-icing products and bulk salt? Contact FSI Landscape Supply today!