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Salt Deicing – At What Temperature Does Salt Stop Melting Ice & Other Helpful Information

by | Dec 13, 2024 | Salt Deicing

Salt deicing can be a helpful strategy for melting ice and snow from surfaces like roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. It operates through a neat process known as freezing point depression. Basically, the saltwater solution causes the ice to melt. This is because salt has a lower freezing point than pure water, which also helps make the surface less likely to refreeze.

Now that you have the basic gist of how alt deicing works, what are the limitations of salt deicing? What should you remember when you perform salt deicing for your sidewalk, driveway, or street? It is important to keep the temperature threshold in mind before you start salt deicing. After you read this article, you will become more knowledgeable about salt deicing than before!

Temperature and Types of Salt

Temperature for Salt Deicing

It is important to pay attention to the temperature when it comes to salt deicing. As the temperature drops, so does the effectiveness of salt deicing. Salt can still melt snow, but it is not as good if the temperature increases. Doing it at temperatures that are not ideal can be impractical and a waste of money. The ideal temperature for salt deice should be above 15℉ (-9℃). Anything lower will greatly reduce its effectiveness.

Types of salt to consider

Another thing to consider regarding salt deicing temperatures is the kind of salt you use. Each type of salt has different temperature thresholds. You may be wondering, what’s the point of using different kinds of salt for salt deicing? Why can’t you use one particular type of salt? That’s a great question! It depends on certain factors and things you must consider for your salt deicing project.

Some salts melt faster than others, some fit other surface requirements better, and others are more cost-effective for your budget. It is important to choose the right type of salt. The temperature also influences salt usage. For example, calcium chloride is effective down to -25℉, while potassium chloride is most effective at temperatures above 15℉. So, the type of salt you use and the temperature you apply are closely linked. Check out this comprehensive road salt guide to help you choose your ideal salt!

Melted snow in front of a garage.

How Long Does it Take For Salt to Melt Ice?

The time varies depending on the kind and amount of salt you use and the temperature you are salt deicing at. Another factor worth noting is the ice density and thickness. The thicker the ice, the longer it will take to melt it. Crushed or shaved ice will melt much faster than solid ice blocks.

For example, at 30℉, one pound of salt can melt 36.3 pounds of ice. That is much faster than if you used the same amount of salt on the same amount of ice, but the temperature is much colder. At 30℉, salt can melt ice for an average of 5 minutes. It can take well over an hour at 15℉ (or even colder). Once again, that depends on the type of ice you use. Using calcium chloride instead of potassium chloride will make the salt melt much faster despite the holder conditions.

Three people shoveling snow with shovels.

More Helpful Tips for Salt Deicing

When it comes to salt deicing, there are important things you can do that will help quicken the process and make it more speedy. Now that you know the effect temperature has on salt deicing and using different kinds of salt, here are 5 great bonus tips before you leave!

  1. Use salt sparingly, as using more salt can be costly. Apply about 12 oz (the size of a coffee mug) of salt per 1,000 sq ft, which is roughly the size of a 20-ft driveway.
  2. Remove snow before you apply the salt. This step will maximize the effect of the salt if it is applied to a surface first. This prevents ice from bonding to the surface and can increase melting speed.
  3. It is important to prioritize safety when salt deicing. You should wear protective gear like gloves, boots, a mask, and eyewear. When you store the salt, please keep it in an airtight container to avoid any preventable accidents. Ingesting salt or exposure to it can result in vomiting, coughing fits, salt burns, and respiratory issues.
A piledriver removing a heap of snow from a road.

Conclusion

Salt deicing is an effective strategy to combat snow-covered roads, driveways, and sidewalks. It is important to remember factors such as temperature, the types of salt you use, and how to salt device properly. Hopefully, this helpful article has provided the information you need to confidently (and safely!) begin your salt deicing project. However, Divine Lawns provides excellent snow removal services if you want to hire professional services for your salt deicing needs. You can call us at (316) 348 – 3842 or contact us to help with any salt deicing needs!

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