The Best Salt For New Concrete In 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
HARRIS Kind Melt Pet Friendly Ice and Snow Melter
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

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

MELT EB is the first ever Snow Melt that goes to work immediately. MELT EB is safe on wet and dry surfaces and can be safely dispensed without requiring the use of protective clothing. And because it's so fast acting, you get back to snowmobiling and plowing in record time. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Green Gobbler Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt Pellets

Get the job done without harming your plants and pavement with Gobbler's Calcium Chloride Ice Melt. This product makes it easier to handle slippery surfaces and will help keep your grasses, bushes, and trees out of harm's way. Use these snow & ice melt pellets when you're working in temperatures as low as - 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Read Review

3. Best Easy To Use: HARRIS Kind Melt Pet Friendly Ice and Snow Melter

Harrris Kind Melt is the best alternative to traditional rock salt ice melters and sodium chloride. The Harrris Kind Melt formula uses a proprietary blend of minerals that melts ice at temperatures down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit. This alternative is kinder to the environment than traditional rock salt or sodium chloride and less corrosive on concrete than both. Read Review

4. Best Compatible: Green Gobbler Pet Safe Ice Melt

Gobbler Pet Safe Ice Melt is an environmentally-friendly solution to help keep pet paws warm. This environmentally-friendly, non-toxic formula is made from cornstarch and water so it's safe for pets, the environment and your budget. Read Review

5. Best compact: Natural Rapport Pet Friendly Ice Melt

SAFER FOR CONCRETE, METAL AND WOOD - ProtectRx, our proprietary, organic technology, reduces corrosion rates by up to 75% compared to regular ice melters and Safer for trees and other vegetation. This 100% natural ice melt is made from naturally-derived ingredients that have been scientifically proven to be safe. Read Review

If you’re thinking of making a new concrete driveway or patio, you might be wondering which salt is best for a new surface. The first thing you need to know is that there is no right answer. Different salts work better on different surfaces.

However, it makes sense if you think about what you’re planning to use your new concrete for. If your plan is a formal entryway with steps and sweeping curves, then sodium chloride won’t be the best choice. On the other hand, if your goal is a simple pathway or dog park with flat edges and straightaways, then sodium chloride will probably be your preferred choice. Knowing what your concrete surface will be used for can help narrow down which type of salt will be best for it.

After spending 16 hours researching and assessing, We have identified the best salt for new concrete is Snow Joe AZ-25-EB Melt-2-Go Nature. We've put up a buying guide as well as additional good alternatives to help you find the perfect one.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Snow Joe AZ-25-EB Melt-2-Go Nature
Our Score:
9.9
Snow Joe

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.

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.

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 Green Gobbler  Pure Calcium Chloride Snow & Ice Melt Pellets
Our Score:
9.7
Green Gobbler

30 DAY HASSLE FREE RETURN POLICY – We value our customers and we stand behind ALL of our products 100% with no questions asked! If you are not pleased simply contact us with your order number and we will reimburse you in FULL!

MELTS SNOW & ICE 4X FASTER: Calcium Chloride works 4X faster than rock salt by generating exothermic heat that instantly melts even the thickest snow & ice with maximum safety and little effort.

FOR TEMPERATURES AS LOW AS - 40 DEGREES: Snow & ice melt pellets work in temperatures as low as - 40 degrees Fahrenheit, lowering the re-freezing temperature and preventing cracks & potholes in parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, walkways, porches, patios & more!

PERFECT WITH SPREADER EQUIPMENT - Thanks to its round pellet design, this product is perfect to use with rotary spreaders and is ideal for covering larger areas and to spread the ice pellets even faster and with less effort.

SAFER FOR PLANTS & PAVEMENT: Green Gobbler's Calcium Chloride Ice Melt is safer for plants & pavement and less likely to harm grasses, bushes, trees, or decorative landscapes than rock salt when used as directed.

TOP Choice #3 HARRIS Kind Melt Pet Friendly Ice and Snow Melter
Our Score:
9.5
HARRIS

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

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

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

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

4 Green Gobbler Pet Safe Ice Melt
Our Score:
9.3
Green Gobbler

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!

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.

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

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.

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!

5 Natural Rapport Pet Friendly Ice Melt
Our Score:
9.2
Natural Rapport

WORKS FAST AND LAST 3X LONGER - Our fast-acting, "time release" formula lasts longer and helps prevent re-icing on your driveway, sidewalk or patio. The jug has up to 25% more ice melt than our competitors, so our 10 pound jug will last even longer.

SAFER FOR PETS - Made in the USA. Our proprietary, eco-friendly formula is safer for your pets, children, and carpet and tile when little feet or paws track some in the house. The safe deicing formula is easier on a pet paw and works better on ice.

SAFER FOR CONCRETE, METAL, AND WOOD - ProtectRx, our proprietary, organic technology, reduces corrosion rates by up to 75% compared to regular ice melters and rock salt. It is safer for your vehicles, equipment, and other surfaces.

LESS HARMFUL TO LAWNS AND GRASS - Safer for trees and other vegetation. Our non-hygroscopic ice melt is environmentally formulated with biodegradable soil supporting compounds, making it less harmful to plant life compared to competitors.

NO NEED FOR A SHAKER BOTTLE - Our easy-to-apply cap allows you to use the perfect amount every time. Plus, the green colored crystals won't clump and help you see exactly how much you have applied. Simple and effective, it saves you time and money.

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

[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

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

[PROFESSIONAL STRENGTH]: Contains 94% pure CaCl2 pellets

[LONG LASTING]: Formulated to last up to 24 hours, melt calcium chloride pellets go to work immediately upon contact with snow and Ice and stay on the surface area longer for added protection and better control of the freeze/thaw cycle

[INSTANT HEAT]: Melt calcium chloride pellets contain 94% pure calcium chloride to quickly generate heat upon and penetrate snow and Ice up to 3 times faster than conventional ice melt

[FAST ACTING]: Melt professional strength calcium chloride pellets go to work immediately upon contact with snow and Ice to accelerate the deicing and melting process. Pre-treating surfaces with melt will also prevent ice and snow from accumulating

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

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

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

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

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

Concentrate formula - easily mixed, save money and great for the environment

Prevents surface damage from rain, snow, ice with a satisfaction guarantee for up to five years

Apply a flood coat with a sprayer, brush or roller, no maintenance required and safe for People, Pets and Plants

Contains advanced UV stabilizers to ensure long lasting non-yellowing performance

Does not alter surface appearance, does not leave a surface film and helps prevent efflorescence

{ Help Your Lawn } Instead of a driveway salt that hurts your lawn and landscape, our biodegradable, enviro melt provides both safe melting and traction naturally all while providing nitrogen as the ice melts back to your lawn to help sweeten the soil!

{ Skip The Salt } Paw friendly ice melt shouldn't include rock salt. Rock salt can be harsh a ice melter if it gets in between paws. Anti-SSSSkid is truly a pet friendly snow melt product with your pets in mind!

{ Instant Traction } A pet safe ice melt shouldn't mean you have to sacrifice traction and overall safety. Our product provides the best of both worlds while providing limestone for traction along with natural, non-corrosive snow melt power!

{ Ice Melt Safe for Concrete } Far less corrosive than rock salt and calcium chloride ice melt. Keep your cured concrete safer from cracks and other winter stresses all while providing instant traction and quality melting power.

{ Quality is Key } Our non- salt, eco friendly ice melt won't sacrifice the quality of standard rock salt for snow products. A premium deicer for steps, driveways and sidewalks that will melt snow down to zero degrees Fahrenheit.

{ Think of your Neighbors } When choosing an ice melt for snow always remember to use a natural pet friendly salt for ice and snow to keep everyone in the neighborhood safe, whether they have four legs or two!

What to Look For in a best salt for new concrete?

Consumers are frequently hesitant to purchase best salt for new concrete. Several factors should be considered while making a significant purchase. Our understanding and expertise with the best salt for new concrete will assist you in making the right decisions.

Today's best salt for new concrete has been substantially upgraded with greater functionality and offers more safety for users than older-generation devices.

Before deciding on a best salt for new concrete for your life based on your desire or the product's qualities, there are a few things to consider. We hope the information provided here will assist you in locating the best option. Let's see what we can do.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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 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 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.

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.

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.

There are numerous points to pick from in general, but doing so well may help you be more convenient and save time! When selecting a best salt for new concrete, pay close attention to the elements listed above, and don't forget to verify the safety.

Have you picked a product like that after reading our article on how to choose and top the best salt for new concrete? Hopefully, the information provided will assist you in selecting the best option for you.


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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