When it comes to melting ice, there are several different deicing products that you can choose from. One option that you may be considering is water softener salt, also known as rock salt or sodium chloride.
We all love a multitasker but it’s important to weigh all the factors before throwing any bag of salt onto your driveway or sidewalk to start melting that pesky ice. In this article, I’ll explore the properties of water softener salt and how it works to melt ice. I’ll also discuss the pros and cons of using water softener salt as a deicing product, and provide some tips for using it safely and effectively.
By the end of this post, you should have a good understanding of whether water softener salt is the right deicing product for your needs.
Will Water Softener Salt Melt Ice?
Water softener salt, also known as rock salt or sodium chloride, can be used to melt ice. When salt is added to water, it lowers the freezing point of the water, which means that the water will remain liquid at a lower temperature. This property of salt is what makes it effective at melting ice.
To use water softener salt to melt ice, you simply sprinkle it over the icy surface. The salt will begin to dissolve in the thin layer of water that is present on top of the ice, creating a brine solution. This brine solution will then lower the freezing point of the water in the ice, causing it to melt. The salt will also help to create a rough surface on the ice, which can make it easier to walk on.
Water softener salt is generally effective at melting ice, but it may not work as well as some other deicing products such as halite, a product specifically created as a deicer. It is important to note that water softener salt is most effective at temperatures above 20°F (-7°C). At very low temperatures, it may not work as well at melting ice.
Is Water Softener Salt Effective At Melting Ice Compared To Other Deicing Products?
Water softener salt is a common de-icing product that is used to melt ice on sidewalks, driveways, and roads. However, while it is effective and relatively inexpensive, it is not the best product for the job.
I mentioned above that water softener salt isn’t as effective at temperatures below 20°F or so. Other deicing products, such as calcium chloride and potassium chloride, may be more effective at melting ice at very low temperatures. These products can also be more expensive and may be more harmful to plants and grass when used in large amounts.
The good news is that water softener salt may be a good choice for melting ice if you live in a place with milder temperatures, but you may want to consider using a different product if you are dealing with extremely cold temperatures…looking at you, Minnesota!
How Do You Apply Water Softener Salt To Melt Ice On A Driveway Or Sidewalk?
For anyone who has had to melt ice on a driveway, you know the process is fairly simple and straightforward…really, the most difficult part is clearing the snow so that you can get to the ice. To apply water softener salt to melt ice on a driveway or sidewalk, follow these steps:
- Clear Snow – Begin by clearing any snow or ice from the surface. This will help the salt to come into direct contact with the ice, which will make it more effective.
- Scatter Salt – Scatter the water softener salt over the icy surface. You can use a salt spreader to help distribute the salt evenly, or you can simply sprinkle it by hand. Be sure to apply the salt in a thin, even layer.
- Evenly Distribute – After applying the salt, use a shovel or snow plow to spread it around. This will help to ensure that the salt is evenly distributed and comes into contact with the ice.
- Wait A Bit – Finally, allow the salt to work its magic. It may take a few hours for the salt to melt the ice, depending on the temperature and the thickness of the ice. You may need to apply more salt as needed.
- Shovel – After a few hours you will have a snowy slush in areas that you will need to shovel down towards the road so that it can drain into your neighborhood’s sewage drainage system.
- Repeat – You may need to apply more salt as needed and possibly shovel more snow if you are in the middle of a storm. Staying on top of it is really the best solution.
If it gets particularly cold you may notice that the water softener salt you’re using will start to be ineffective. If this happens you will want to switch to a product more suited for colder temperatures, such as halite.
What Precautions Should I Take When Using Water Softener Salt As A Driveway Deicer?
Since water softener salt is a salt based product like actual driveway deicer, it shares some of the similar pitfalls. Namely that it can be harmful to grass and plants as well as possibly scratch or rust a vehicle. Here are a few precautions that you should take when using water softener salt to melt ice:
- Use The Right Amount Of Salt – It is important to use water softener salt sparingly, as it can be harmful to plants and grass when used in large amounts. Follow the recommended application rates provided by the manufacturer, and avoid applying more salt than is necessary.
- Be Careful When Applying Salt – When applying water softener salt, be sure to use caution. Wear gloves to protect your hands, and take care not to slip or fall on the icy surface.
- Keep Salt Away From Plants And Grass – Water softener salt can be harmful to plants and grass when used in large amounts. To avoid damaging your landscaping, be sure to apply salt only to the areas where it is needed and avoid getting it on plants and grass.
- Avoid Using Salt On Certain Surfaces – Water softener salt can be rough on concrete surfaces and may cause them to become damaged over time. If you are concerned about damaging your concrete driveway or sidewalk, you may want to consider using a different de-icing product.
- Follow All Safety Precautions – Be sure to follow all safety precautions when using any de-icing product. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and a face mask, to protect yourself from the chemicals in the salt. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and storage, and be sure to keep de-icing products out of the reach of children and pets.
Can Water Softener Salt Be Harmful To Certain Outdoor Surfaces?
Water softener salt can be harmful to certain outdoor surfaces when used to melt ice. One of the main ways that water softener salt can damage outdoor surfaces is by causing them to become grooved or pitted over time.
When salt is applied to a surface, it can react with the surface material and cause it to break down or wear away. This can lead to rough or pitted surfaces that are unsightly and potentially dangerous to walk on.
Concrete
Concrete surfaces, such as driveways and sidewalks, are particularly susceptible to damage from water softener salt. The salt can react with the concrete and cause it to become rough or pitted, which can make it more difficult to walk on and can also reduce the lifespan of the surface.
Asphalt
Asphalt surfaces may also be damaged by water softener salt, although this type of damage is typically less common.
You can minimize some damage by making sure you only use as much salt as needed and keep it limited to the areas you are deicing. After you’re done, make sure you shovel or sweep the leftover slush down to the end or your driveway and towards sewage drains. Finally, if you are concerned about damaging your outdoor surfaces, you may want to consider using a different de-icing product.
Can Water Softener Salt Be Used To Melt Ice On A Roof Or Gutters?
Water softener salt can also be used to melt ice on a roof or in gutters, but it is important to use caution when doing so. Here are a few things to consider when using water softener salt to melt ice on a roof or in gutters:
- The Weight Of The Salt – Water softener salt is relatively heavy, and adding a large amount of it to your roof or gutters could potentially cause damage. Be sure to use the salt sparingly and only in the areas where it is needed.
- The Potential For Damage – Water softener salt can be rough on certain surfaces, and it may cause your roof or gutters to become pitted or rough over time. If you are concerned about damaging your roof or gutters, you may want to consider using a different deicing product.
- The Risk Of Slipping – When using water softener salt to melt ice on a roof or in gutters, it is important to be mindful of the risk of slipping. Wear appropriate footwear and take care to avoid slipping and falling.
- The Potential For Staining – Water softener salt can sometimes leave behind a white residue when it dries, which can be difficult to remove. If you are concerned about staining, you may want to consider using a different de-icing product.
Overall, it’s important to use caution when using water softener salt as a deicer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use, and take all necessary safety precautions. If you are unsure about whether water softener salt is the right deicing product for your needs, it is a good idea to consult the product manufacturer or a professional.
Is Water Softener Salt Safe For Pets To Walk On After It Has Been Used To Melt Ice?
Water softener salt is generally safe for pets to walk on after it has been used to melt ice, but it is important to use caution and take steps to minimize the potential for harm. Here are a few things to consider when using water softener salt to melt ice and allowing pets to walk on the surface:
- The Potential For Irritation – Some pets may be sensitive to the chemicals in water softener salt and may experience irritation on their paws if they walk on a surface that has been treated with salt. To minimize the risk of irritation, be sure to wipe your pet’s paws with a damp cloth after they have been walking on a salted surface.
- The Risk Of Ingestion – It is possible for pets to ingest water softener salt if they lick their paws or the ground after walking on a salted surface. While the amount of salt that a pet would need to ingest in order to be harmful is relatively high, it is still a good idea to minimize the risk of ingestion. One way to do this is by wiping your pet’s paws with a damp cloth after they have been walking on a salted surface.
- The Potential For Damage To Paws – Water softener salt can be rough on certain surfaces, and it may cause your pet’s paws to become rough or chapped if they walk on a surface that has been treated with salt. To minimize the risk of damage to your pet’s paws, be sure to wipe their paws with a damp cloth after they have been walking on a salted surface.
This basically goes for any salt used as a deicer, even halite. Use caution and make sure your pet isn’t eating any snow that may have salt mixed in with it. If you are concerned about the safety of water softener salt for your pets, it is a good idea to consult a veterinarian.