Ice melt products are essential tools for maintaining safe passage during winter months, especially in regions like Oakville. Southern Ontario experiences frequent freezing temperatures and precipitation from November through March, and sometimes even later. Today, we’re shining a light on the underappreciated role ice melt products play in winter safety. Find out what you should consider when choosing products for your property.
Where and Why You Might Need Ice Melt Products
Ice can create hazardous conditions on walkways, driveways, steps, and other surfaces around your property. Without proper treatment, these slick areas pose serious safety risks for both pedestrians and vehicles. Keeping it under control is a liability issue that must be managed all season long. That goes for every property owner, whether residential or commercial. It also applies to every corner of a property where people might walk, drive, or work.
Common areas requiring regular ice melt treatment include:
- Entrance ways and exits
- Parking lots and driveways
- Walkways and sidewalks
- Emergency access routes
- Loading docks and service areas
- Outdoor stairs and ramps
Types of Ice Melt Products
There’s no shortage of options available when it comes to melting ice and snow. From traditional rock salt to pet-safe alternatives, let’s break down the most common types:
Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride)
A naturally occurring mineral compound that’s been used for ice control for over a century.
Key Facts
Effective Temperature: Down to -10°C
Cost: Most affordable option ($5–$10 per 22.7 kg bag)
Application Rate: 68–136 g per square metre
Environmental Impact: High
Pet Safety: Low
Rock salt works by creating a brine solution that prevents ice formation. While it’s the most widely used de-icer due to its low cost, it can corrode metal, damage vegetation, and irritate pet paws. Best used on driveways and roads away from landscaping.
Calcium Chloride
A manufactured salt compound that releases heat as it dissolves in ice and snow.
Key Facts
Effective Temperature: Down to -32°C
Cost: Premium ($20–$30 per 22.7 kg bag)
Application Rate: 34–102 g per square metre
Environmental Impact: Moderate
Pet Safety: Moderate
This fast-acting compound’s pellet form helps it bore through ice layers quickly. Its concentrated formula means you can use up to 1/3 less product compared to rock salt, though it can leave a slippery residue if overapplied.
Magnesium Chloride
A salt extracted from seawater or mineral deposits that are known for its more gentle formulation.
Key Facts
Effective Temperature: Down to -15°C
Cost: Moderate ($15–$25 per 22.7 kg bag)
Application Rate: 68–136 g per square metre
Environmental Impact: Low–Moderate
Pet Safety: Moderate–High
This ice melt creates less damage to vegetation and is less corrosive to concrete than traditional rock salt. Its hygroscopic nature means it attracts moisture from the air, helping prevent ice formation before it starts.
Potassium Chloride
A naturally occurring mineral compound that’s also used as a fertilizer.
Key Facts
Effective Temperature: Down to -7°C
Cost: Moderate–High ($18–$28 per 22.7 kg bag)
Application Rate: 102–136 g per square metre
Environmental Impact: Low
Pet Safety: Moderate–High
While slower-acting than other options, it’s one of the least harmful to vegetation and waterways. Its fertilizing properties make it ideal for use around landscaping.
Pet-Safe Options
Alternative de-icing compounds specifically formulated to be gentle on animal paws and safe if ingested in small amounts.
Key Facts
Effective Temperature: Varies by product (typically -9°C to -4°C)
Cost: Premium ($25–$40 per 22.7 kg bag)
Application Rate: Varies by product
Environmental Impact: Very Low
Pet Safety: High
These include urea-based products and calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). Urea-based options are essentially fertilizer-based, while CMA is a salt-free, biodegradable alternative. Both work more slowly than chloride-based products but offer superior safety for pets and children.
Choosing the Right Ice Melt Product
When selecting an ice melt product for your property, consider these key factors:
Temperature Range
Choose a product rated for your area’s typical winter temperatures. Some products become ineffective below certain temperatures.
Surface Type
Different surfaces require different treatments. Concrete, asphalt, wood, and metal each react differently to various ice melt compounds.
Usage Area
Consider the application location. Areas near vegetation or where pets frequent may require gentler formulations.
Cost vs. Coverage
Calculate the total area you need to treat and compare product coverage rates. Sometimes paying more upfront for a concentrated product saves money long-term.
Environmental Concerns
If environmental impact is a priority, opt for products with lower environmental impact ratings, even if they cost more initially.
Application Method
Consider how you’ll spread the product. Some come with built-in spreaders, while others require separate spreading equipment.
Remember to always follow manufacturer guidelines for application rates and safety precautions. Proper storage in a dry location will help maintain product effectiveness throughout the winter season.
Need Help Choosing the Right Options for Your Property?
As an all-season service provider in Oakville, MJ Landscapers knows a thing or two about ice melt products. We use various kinds throughout the winter season, which, around here, lasts longer and gets more intense than many expect. Our team can assess your property’s specific needs and recommend the most effective and cost-efficient ice melt solutions.
Contact us today to get the conversation started.
Jase Alexander Lachowiez, Owner of a Leading Landscape Company, boasts a rich background in real estate and landscape design, with over five years dedicated to creating exceptional outdoor environments. A licensed real estate professional from Humber College, Jase has established himself as a leader in Oakville’s landscaping industry, known for his innovative techniques and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. His expertise is further enriched by his experiences in the financial and customer service sectors, enhancing his business operations and client relations. Jase is a passionate community member who enjoys hockey and outdoor adventures with his dog, Rocky. He is driven by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and continuously updates his knowledge through extensive networks, media, and industry podcasts, ensuring he remains a frontrunner in his field.
