The fact of the matter is that concrete acts almost like a blotter and as such it absorbs some of the chemicals used as deicers.
Ice melt for concrete surfaces.
Ice melt can generally be used on wooden and concrete surfaces such as porches and driveways without causing any damage.
Splash ice melt fast acting long lasting melting power.
However if ice melt is applied to a porous surface such as brick it will eventually lead to salt build up in that material and structural damage down the line.
Homeowners may be better off considering alternative ice melt products especially for concrete surfaces.
Experts agree that calcium chloride is the best ice melt for concrete surfaces.
Concrete needs care because concrete is a porous material it absorbs moisture particularly when new or of poor quality.
Another good de icer is cma or calcium magnesium acetate which doesn t wash away as easily as the others and has a lower environmental impact.
The following are the best ice melt products for concrete surfaces.
There are a number of ice melt products that cause less harm to concrete.
We also need to consider the safety of our family pets and the plants in our garden.
This may seem like a quick solution but putting salt on these surfaces can cause concrete damage.
Choosing a safe ice melt that will not damage your concrete is vital and the correct application can extend the longevity of these surfaces.
It goes without saying that ice melt that is safe for concrete plants and animals will also be the most eco friendly products.
A larger number of people tend to think that concrete is impervious to almost every substance.
While potassium chloride is good for the environment it damages the concrete and typically costs 3 5 times more.
The dissolving process is exothermic and generates heat of up to 60 degrees celsius.
Being a hygroscopic compound it absorbs moisture and thereafter starts dissolving.
Calcium chloride pellets this de icer melts ice quickly after application and is still effective at extremely low temperatures of as low as 24 degrees below zero.
Splash ice melt effectively dissolves ice on cured concrete and other non porous surfaces.
Good ice melt choices for concrete are calcium chloride and magnesium chloride.
The most common way of preventing ice and snow on your porches sidewalks and driveways is salting prior to ice and snow.
Pure organic ingredients ice melt pellets 8 lb 1 gallon 100 pet safe concrete safe snow ice melt calcium chloride pellets powerful fast acting 4 0 out of 5 stars 36 22 98 22.