The Best Salt For Ice On Concrete In 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
HARRIS Kind Melt Pet Friendly Ice Melt
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: Snow Joe AZ-25-EB Melt-2-Go Nature

Create a winter wonderland for your pet with this Snow Joe AZ-25-EB Melt-2-Go Nature. This ice melting solution is formulated from nature’s own ingredients, and it’s unlikely to irritate paws or cause rashes. It also leaves no slimy residue behind, and can be safely and easily dispensed without requiring the use of protective clothing. Enhanced with high levels of CMA compared to other environmental ice melt blends Read Review

2. Best Compact: HARRIS Kind Melt Pet Friendly Ice Melt

HARRIS Kind Melt Pet Safe Ice Melter is the safe and chemical free way of melting ice on your driveway, steps, walkways or balcony. Made with 100% Magnesium Chloride and designed to melt at temperatures down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit, HARRIS Kind Melt deicer is less corrosive than traditional rock salt ice melters. Now you can enjoy the benefits of this organic product with a company that puts the environment first. Read Review

3. Best Realiable: Green Gobbler Pet Safe Ice Melt

Pet safe ice melt with a proprietary magnesium chloride formula is the only product that generates heat to melt ice and snow, without using chemicals or electricity. This revolutionary new product has proven to be about as environmentally friendly as possible for residential and commercial use. Read Review

4. Best Compatible: National Blue Ice Melt 20lb Bucket

Get the job done without damaging your concrete or vegetation with National Blue Ice Melter. This professional ice melter is formulated to melt and cover large water-based surfaces quickly, including cement and porous materials such as brick and stucco. With its optimized particle size, this ice melter melts to -15°F and has anti-caking agents that maintain a consistent consistency for easy application. Read Review

5. Best Performance: Snow Joe AZ-25-CC Melt-2-Go

Snow Joe AZ-25-CC Melt-2-Go is a powerful handheld snow melter that quickly melts and thaws ice and snow. This low-cost, lightweight product is easy to use and requires no electricity, just pull the trigger to activate the device's automatic melting action. With its patented design, the Snow Joe AZ-25-CC Melt-2-Go is an efficient on/off melter that quickly melts ice and snow with or without precipitation. Read Review

Ice on concrete can be problematic. Even if you have a well-insulated house and your indoor air is very dry and clean, your concrete still takes in moisture from the air. The ice will expand as it melts, cracking your beautiful driveway or sidewalk and making the wet stains harder to remove. What you do want to do on your icy walkways or driveways is prevent them from freezing in the first place by preventing condensation build-up inside your home.

This will reduce the risk of ice forming and keep all moisture locked up inside. To do this, you need to find the perfect salt for ice on concrete: one that prevents moisture from seeping into the ground but doesn’t cause too much damage when it does happen, causing potholes or depressions in your driveway. The right type of salt can also help restore natural soil sealant and break down odors that attract insects like ants or mosquitoes, making your outdoor space much nicer to spend time in.

After lots of research based on customer feedback, We think the best salt for ice on concrete is Snow Joe AZ-25-EB Melt-2-Go Nature. We have provided you with a detailed buyer's guide and many other good choices so that you can decide which one is the best for your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Snow Joe AZ-25-EB Melt-2-Go Nature
Our Score:
9.8
Snow Joe

FAST-ACTING IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES: Goes to work immediately upon contact with snow and ice to accelerate the deicing and melting process. Pre-treating surfaces will also prevent ice and snow from accumulating.

PET FRIENDLY: Formulated from nature’s own ingredients, EB Ice Melt provides a greener solution to deicing that is safer for pets. Unlikely to irritate paws or cause rashes.

Questions, Text 563563 to chat directly with a Snow Joe expert

ANTI-CORROSION FORMULA: Enhanced with high levels of CMA (calcium magnesium acetate) compared to other environmental ice melt blends. EB Ice Melt delivers fast and effective results without damaging surfaces such as concrete or metals.

ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE: Leaves no slimy residue behind, making it safe to use on grass, turf, around trees and other vegetation. Protects surrounding hardscapes and softscapes when used as directed.

SAFE TO HANDLE: When used as directed, EB Ice Melt will not dry out or irritate the skin and can be safely and easily dispensed without requiring the use of protective clothing. MELT EB is specially treated with an anti-caking agent to extend shelf-life and improve dispersion.

TOP Choice #2 HARRIS Kind Melt Pet Friendly Ice Melt
Our Score:
9.6
HARRIS

Works Immediately - Deicer instantly melts ice on driveways, sidewalks, steps, balconies, patios, walkways, roadways and more

Pet Safe Ice Melt - 100% Magnesium Chloride formula won't burn or irritate pets' paws and comes in a round pellet form with no jagged crystals

Less Corrosive - Kinder to the environment than traditional rock salt ice melters and less corrosive to concrete than sodium chloride and calcium chloride

Effective at Low Temps - Works at temperatures down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit

OMRI Listed - Listed with the Organic Minerals Research Institute for organic use

TOP Choice #3 Green Gobbler Pet Safe Ice Melt
Our Score:
9.5
Green Gobbler

MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE FORMULA HARVESTED FROM THE DEAD SEA. Magnesium chloride ice melt has a notoriously low toxicity level making it less toxic than calcium, potassium or sodium chloride.

SAFER FOR PETS AND THE ENVIRONMENT. Pet Safe is highly unlikely to burn or irritate the skin or pets paws. Pet Safe won't harm plants or cause spalling on driveways and concrete that's been properly set and cured.

30 DAY HASSLE FREE MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. We value our customers and we stand behind ALL of our products 100% with no questions asked! If you are not pleased simply call or email us with your order number and we will reimburse you in FULL!

MELTS SNOW AND ICE IN FRIGID TEMPERATURES (as low as -10°F): Pet Safe will generate exothermic heat over a short period of time. In a test, our product melted twice as much ice as rock salt in 21°F!

PERFECT FOR SPREADERS. Because of its small, round pellet shape, Pet Safe can be used in various ice melt spreaders.

4 National Blue Ice Melt 20lb Bucket
Our Score:
9.3
National Blue

BETTER INGREDIENTS: Magnesium Chloride Free! Commercial strength, professional ice melter down to -15°F. Contains 10% Calcium Chloride.

SIZE: Optimized particle size for controlled spreading, allowing you to melt more with less cost. National Blue Ice Melt also contains anti-caking agents that ensure easy flow for ice melt spreaders and longer storage life. Contains a water soluble non-staining coverage indicator. Making it easier to see when spreading.

ANTI-CAKING: National Blue ice melt contains an anti-caking agent that helps for easy flow for ice melt spreaders and longer storage life

PET + CONCRETE FRIENDLY: National Blue Ice Melt will not harm concrete and vegetation when used according to label instructions. Ice Melt contains no added magnesium chloride which has been shown in studies to chemically attack concrete. Incorporating liquid anti-icing practices with dry application rates is essential to reducing chloride and salt impacts on the environment. Safe for pets and their paws

PREMIUM ICE MELT: Melts to -15°F The faster an ice melter works, the less chance there is for a mishap to occur. That’s why National Blue Ice Melt contains two patented accelerating agents. National Blue Ice Melt has been shown in Strategic Highway Research Program testing, to exceed the melt value of a theoretical 50% calcium chloride blend.

5 Snow Joe AZ-25-CC Melt-2-Go
Our Score:
9.1
Snow Joe

INSTANT HEAT: MELT calcium chloride crystals generate heat instantly upon contact with snow and ice, thereby accelerating the melting process

FAST ACTING: MELT calcium chloride crystals are specially formulated with super-enhanced melting properties to deliver fast and reliable results

LONG LASTING: Formulated to last up to 24 hours, MELT calcium chloride crystals go to work immediately upon contact with snow and ice and continue working all day long to ensure your surfaces are safer and ice-free

NON-TRACKING: When used as directed, MELT calcium chloride crystals will not track from your shoes onto your home’s floors or carpets

MELTS DOWN TO -25°: MELT calcium chloride crystals effectively melt ice and snow on contact, even at temperatures as low as -25°F

6 Blue Heat Snow and Ice Melt
Our Score:
8.9
PELLETS OF FIRE

MADE IN THE USA: All of our products are made in the United States with quality care. As one of the highest grade ice melters you can rely on this de-icer to get the job done in any condition. Available for home and bulk supply.

NO STAIN & NO DAMAGE: Blue Heat Snow and Ice melter is a non-harmful option for your home and your family because it won’t harm vegetation or stain carpets, rugs or kitchen floors. It’s safer for children, animals, plants, concrete, brick and stone.

QUICK & EFFECTIVE: Don’t let snowy weather stop you from hitting the road. Melt away snow and ice in an instant! These powerful pellets work on contact to de-ice pavements, driveways and other road surfaces immediately so you can get going.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Trust in a product that doesn’t use harmful chemicals. These pellets aren’t harmful to the environment because they draw in moisture from the environment, making it safer for you and the planet. Made with calcium, magnesium and sodium.

SUPERIOR MELTING POWER: This ice melter starts working on contact and it’s effective in temperatures as low as negative 25 degrees Fahrenheit. A blue tint makes it easy to see where product has already been distributed to prevent over-application.

7 Traction Magic Walk on Ice
Our Score:
8.8
Traction Magic

Excellent Spread Rate - Use sparingly while getting excellent traction on large areas for long winters; Non-corrosive and Non-conductive - No damage to delicate machinery and will not short circuit expensive equipment.

Works at All Temperatures - Works at any temperature and any thickness of ice (even black ice); Superior Absorbency - Very absorbent and abrasive to help clean up messes from animal waste, bodily fluids, oils, paints, and many other viscous liquids.

Instant traction on ice and snow; People, Pet & Plant Safe - Safe on eyes, skin, paws and if ingested. It’s all-around safe!

All Natural - Composed of all-natural minerals and safe ingredients. 100% free of harmful salts, chloride and chemicals

Surface Safe - 100% safe on all surfaces including decking, new concrete, pavers, etc; Anti-skid - Creates an instant skid-free, slip-free surface on ice and snow for foot traffic, pet traffic, car traffic and more.

EXCELLENT SPREAD RATE - Covers 100 square feet per pound; Safe formula won't harm eyes or skin; Size: 10 Lbs 7oz

NON-CORROSIVE & LONG SHELF LIFE - It’s non corrosive and non-conductive. No damage to delicate machinery or worry about short circuits. Get instant melting without worrying about property damage. Concentrated formula assures long-term, maximum effectiveness from season to season

MELT ICE IN 10 MINUTES: Ice melting crystals prevent water molecules from reforming to destabilize and melt ice particles in 10 minutes

MELTS IN ULTRA COLD CONDITIONS: Safe Thaw crystal leaches out a de-icing liquid to speed up the melting process even in sub-zero temperatures

PET-SAFE ICE MELT: Safe Thaw ice melt from the makers of Safe Paw is safe to use around plants, dogs, pets, and children; Ice melt won't damage concrete and is environmentally safe for land and waterways

9 Pure Original Ingredients Ice Melt Pellets
Our Score:
8.4
Pure Organic Ingredients

Safe for Use on Sidewalks, Concrete, Driveways and Parking Lots

Always pure ingredients with no additives

Effective in Temperatures as Low as –25ºF

Packaged in Utah, USA

Pure Original Ingredients Ice Melt Pellets

What Are the Key Factors for Customers to Follow to Pick best salt for ice on concrete?

A range of influences contributes to the best salt for ice on concrete. Depending on the product, there are several ways to study it. As a result, we've come to lend a hand, offer advice, and offer answers to these issues.

A thorough search of trustworthy websites should be conducted using as many resources as feasible. Our experts use high-tech tools and a well-tuned product listing system to provide a sort of service.

It'd also be fascinating to go more into the development and analysis of these aspects. Consider the following tips in mind:

Environmental Factors

The chemicals found in your ice melting will have an adverse effect on the surroundings, as we've already mentioned.
Different products can have different effects on the animals and plants of the environment, as well as man-made materials like concrete or grates.
When you are choosing your product, and later when it is applied, be mindful of the environment.
This article provides more details about the impacts of deicing chemicals upon soil, vegetation and groundwater.

Intended Surface

Some ice melts are not suitable for all surfaces. You should look for an ice melt that's anti-corrosive and formulated specifically for you, like a roof deicer. It's a good idea, if you're not sure, to try the ice melt first on a small area of your driveway or sidewalk.

Minimum Temperature

Ice melts are usually required to reach a minimum temperature of between 0° and -40° Fahrenheit. Some can even be used below -15°F. You should make sure that you get something that will withstand the extreme cold temperatures in your region.

Type

There are two types of ice melts: liquid and solid. You can sprinkle solid ice melt pellets by hand, or using a handheld or small-handheld sprinkler. You can spray liquid ice melt with any handheld sprayer. Additional equipment may be required, which could increase the cost of your liquid ice melt.
You can also buy ice melt that is specifically designed for roof deicing. They come as tablets which can be used to throw onto the roof, sometimes with help from a ladder. The ice melts and then runs off the roof like water.

Package Size

While bulk purchases offer the greatest value, it is best to buy large quantities. If you do not want to throw away your ice melt, however you can store large containers of icemelt during the summer heat. Take into account how many tons of ice or snow you expect to get in the coming year. Stock up accordingly.

FAQs

What's The Difference Between Ice Melt For Driveways Or Sidewalks And Ice Melt For Roofs?

Magnesium chlorineide is the best option for roofing because unlike sodium chloride and other ice melting options, it won't cause damage to your roof shingles. Magnesium chloride is a little safer than sodium chloride and will not pose a threat to the landscape or lawn if it leaks off the roof.
We have had success with roof rakes to remove snow from roofs.

Is Ice Melt Environmentally Friendly?

Ice melt in large amounts can be harmful to the environment. Large quantities of chemical deicers can get into storm drains and then into waterways (e.g. rivers or lakes). They often react with other chemicals in water and cause damage to wildlife and fish. It is important that you only apply the necessary amount and not to spread it to areas where there are plants.

How Do You Use Ice Melt?

Apply a thin coating of concrete to your ice and snow melt. Scotts offers a wheeled spreading tool that can be used to cover larger areas than driveways or small walkways.
Ice melt performs at its best when laid before storms and prevented from freezing.
Use a snow shovel to remove snow that is already on the ground.

Is Ice Melt Pet-safe?

Although "pet-safe" may sound a little broad, it is true that any ice melting is potentially dangerous for your pet. Their paws can be irritated and burned by sodium and calcium chloride. Many melts are toxic and can cause serious injuries if they are ingested. Also, be aware of how to store ice melt.

Can You Make Homemade Ice Melt?

Effective ice melting can be done with items that you have around the house. A large amount of isopropyl ethanol (rubbing alcohol), mixed with warm water and some dish soap can be used for smaller deicing areas like the windshield or walkway. This makes it safer for you and your pets.
Even though regular table salt might be useful, they will kill your grass and leave you with a damaged driveway.

What's The Best Ice Melt For Asphalt?

The best asphalt ice melt is sodium chloride, also called "rock salt". This deicer is what you will see on roads and highways in snowstorms. It is also less expensive than other ice melts, and it can be effectively used on gravel surfaces. Asphalt is not immune to all possible damage but it is more resistant than concrete to chloride-based, ice melts.

We decide facts since we are product consulting professionals with extensive expertise. Even so, we maintain and update the list of best salt for ice on concrete so the information is correct and up to date.

After reading this article, you should discover that selecting a best salt for ice on concrete that is both handy and economical to you is not difficult. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you require assistance.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio