What you need to know about ice melters

How ice melters work

When ice melter granules contact ice or snow, they begin to form a brine solution. This brine is central to the melting process, as it will not freeze initially. The brine becomes more diluted as it melts the ice or snow, until it eventually refreezes.

How long it takes for this refreezing to occur depends on the amount of ice melter applied and the effectiveness of each granule. Some ingredients melt ice at lower temperatures, and prevent refreezing longer than others. For example, rock salt will melt ice down to -15°C (5°F), while urea will only melt ice down to -4°C (25°F).

When to apply ice melters

Here are some guidelines for applying ice melter after precipitation has fallen:

Dry Powdery Snow
Can be shovelled or swept, and may not require the use of ice melter.

Sleet/Freezing Rain
Apply ice melter early to prevent ice buildup.

Wet/Heavy Snow
Apply as soon as wet/heavy snow begins falling to prevent it from bonding. When more than two inches accumulate, shovel excess snow and reapply if necessary.

Large Accumulations Of Snow
Anytime the snowfall amounts to more than two inches, plow or shovel first. Then use ice melter to melt the stubborn layer of ice or hard-packed snow that remains.

Precautions
Apply at labelled rates. Use a spreader or application unit. Spread evenly. Do not over-apply, especially around vegetation, metals and concrete.