Like Sisyphus pushing the boulder up the mountain, it seems like shoveling and deicing your driveway is an unending task each winter and choosing the right kind of salt to deice your driveway can make a big difference in ensuring safe and efficient trips out to get in your car, check the mail, or take the dog for a walk.
But with so many options available, how do you know which salt is the best choice for your needs? Here are 5 tips to help you choose the right kind of salt to deice your driveway, as well as the answers to a few questions that might pop-up along the way.
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the right kind of salt to deice a driveway:
- Type of Salt
- Melting Temperature
- Pre-Treatment
- Environmental Impact
- Price
Type Of Salt
There are several types of salt that can be used to deice driveways, including:
- Rock Salt (also called halite)
- Calcium Chloride
- Potassium Chloride
The most common and affordable option, but it can be harmful to plants and may leave a white residue.
Calcium chloride and potassium chloride are less harmful to plants, but they are more expensive and may not work as well in extremely cold temperatures.
Melting Temperature
Different salts have different melting temperatures, which is the temperature at which they start to melt ice. Rock salt has a melting temperature of around 15°F (-9°C), while calcium chloride and potassium chloride have melting temperatures of around -10°F (-23°C) and -15°F (-26°C), respectively.
Choose a salt with a lower melting temperature for areas with extremely cold temperatures.
| Type of Deicer | Melting Temp |
| Rock Salt | 15°F (-9°C) |
| Calcium Chloride | -10°F (-23°C) |
| Potassium Chloride | -15°F (-26°C) |
Pre-Treatment
Some salts work better when applied to dry surfaces, while others work better when applied to wet surfaces. If you live in an area with frequent snowfall, you may want to consider using a salt that works well on wet surfaces so you can apply it immediately after the snow has stopped.
Environmental Impact
Salt can be harmful to plants and aquatic life, so it’s important to consider the environmental impact when choosing a deicing salt. Calcium chloride and potassium chloride are generally less harmful to plants and aquatic life than rock salt, but they may still have some impact.
You also need to be mindful when using deicer around vehicles, as it can scratch paint and windows and can also cause exposed metal to rust and degrade.
Price
The price of different types of salt can vary significantly, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing a deicing salt. Rock salt is typically the most affordable option, while calcium chloride and potassium chloride are more expensive.
Price is always going to fluctuate through the season and prices may surge if there is a sudden or severe winter storm and the supply of deicer suddenly dwindles. Average prices usually hover around the $2.00 – $3.00 per pound.
What Is Salt Deicer Called And What Kind Of Salt Is It?
Salt deicer is a product that is used to melt ice and snow on sidewalks and driveways. It is typically made from salt or a salt-based compound, such as rock salt, calcium chloride, or potassium chloride. Rock salt, also known as halite, is the most common type of salt used for deicing.
Rock Salt
Rock salt is mined from deposits in the earth and is usually sold in crystal form. It has a melting temperature of around 15°F (-9°C) and can be harmful to plants and grass.
Calcium Chloride and Potassium Chloride
Calcium chloride and potassium chloride are also commonly used for deicing. These salts are more expensive than rock salt, but they have lower melting temperatures (around -10°F/-23°C and -15°F/-26°C, respectively) and are less harmful to vegetation.
Salt deicer is often sold in pre-measured bags or buckets, or it can be purchased in bulk. It is typically applied to surfaces using a spreader or by hand, and it works by lowering the freezing point of water, causing ice and snow to melt.
How Long Does Deicer Last If Stored Properly?
If stored properly, most deicing products will last for several seasons. However, the exact shelf life will depend on the type of deicer and the storage conditions.
Rock salt, which is the most common type of deicer, has a relatively long shelf life and can last for several years if stored properly. However, it can absorb moisture from the air and become less effective over time. To extend its shelf life, it is important to store rock salt in a dry, cool place, such as a garage or basement.
Calcium chloride and potassium chloride, which are more expensive than rock salt but have lower melting temperatures and are less harmful to plants and aquatic life, also have a relatively long shelf life. These salts can last for several seasons if stored properly, but they may lose some of their effectiveness over time due to moisture absorption.
| Type | Pros | Cons |
| Rock Salt | Long Shelf Life, Cheaper | Absorbs Moisture From Air |
| Calcium Chloride | Lower Melting Temp.( -10°F) | More Expensive |
| Potassium Chloride | Lower Melting Temp.( -15°F) | Costs More |
It’s important to note that deicers can expire or become less effective if they are exposed to extreme temperatures or moisture, so it’s important to store them in a dry, cool place. If you are unsure whether a deicer is still effective, it is best to err on the side of caution and purchase a new product.
Should I Wait For It To Stop Snowing Before Deicing A Driveway?
It’s generally best to wait for the snow to stop falling before deicing a driveway, as this will allow the salt to be more effective. When salt is applied to fresh, wet snow, it can be diluted or washed away before it has a chance to work.
If you apply salt to a driveway while it is still snowing, you may need to use more in order to achieve the desired effect, which can be wasteful and potentially harmful to your grass or other plants. Additionally, it may be more difficult to see where you have already applied the salt, which can lead to over-application or missed areas.
Once the snow has stopped falling and the surface has had a chance to freeze, you can then apply salt to the driveway to help melt any ice that has formed. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the type of salt you are using, as different types may have different application recommendations.
It’s also a good idea to shovel or plow any excess snow off the driveway before applying, as this will allow the salt to come into direct contact with the ice and be more effective.