How to Apply Ice Melters
When to Apply Ice Melters?
Anti-Icing – Proactive application of ice melter to surfaces prior to a storm. Anti-icers are applied before precipitation begins to prevent the ice from building on walkways. By applying an ice melter before a snowfall event, you can prevent the ice/snow from bonding to the surface area and simplify removal of ice and snow.
De-Icing – Apply ice melter to existing ice and snow. Deicers are made from a variety of mineral salts and work on the chemistry principle that salt water has a lower freezing point than fresh water. As the chemicals react they form a brine solution, which penetrates the ice and snow to form a barrier between the surface area. This allows for easier removal of ice and snow.
Applying Ice Melters
- Too little ice melter will not control ice and snow as intended.
- Too much ice melter is wasteful and potentially harmful to the environment, resulting in burnt vegetation and corroded hardscapes.
- Some products can be toxic to both vegetation and applicator.
- Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the product and use only as directed.
Application Rates
For best results, apply ice melter using a push type or hand held spreader. It is very effective; a small amount will go a long way! Depending on the amount of ice and snow present, sprinkle the ice melter on ice and snow at the rate of 1 lb. to 4.5 lb. per 540 ft². Shovel off excess slush/water, and then reapply to the heavy areas of ice. Do not overspread. Apply evenly and avoid piling.
Ice Melter Granular Size
Small granules melt quickly, and a large amount of them can get the melting process off to a fast start.
Larger particles have a comparatively slower melting action. They will likely penetrate through an ice layer, but may not be completely dissolved into an underlying brine layer. The unused materials can reduce melting efficiency and increase cost.
The most effective ice melters use consistent, medium sized granules which can bore through the surface and maximize brine formation. This breaks the ice to surface bond, allowing easy removal of the remaining ice.
Before and After Application
Helpful Tips When Applying
- Wet/Heavy Snow: Apply as soon as wet/heavy snow begins falling to prevent ice from bonding. When more than 1 inch accumulates, shovel snow and reapply if necessary.
- Sleet/Freezing Rain: Apply ice melter early to prevent ice build-up.
- Dry Powdery Snow: Can be shoveled or swept, and may not require the use of ice melters.
Contact Kissner Group Inc. today for all of your Ice Melter needs.
32 Cherry Blossom Road, Cambridge, ON N3H 4R7.
Phone: 1-800-434-8248 | Fax: 1-877-434-8250.
Email: info@kissner.com
Website: www.kissner.com