Thin is in. Less is more (ice melt that is)

Super feedback on “Tips on Ice Melt and Beet Juice!” and concerns for harmful pollutants in stormwater runoff, has led to additional research. In preparation for snow predictions, here’s vital info culled from authoritative references.

Cons: Repeated application of rock salt decreases (not increases) effectiveness of use. Thin is in. Less is more.  Layering rock salt over and over diminishes its capacity to work and exponentially increases the harmful byproducts of use:     

(a) Overuse of some deicers can accelerate the freeze and thaw cycles that damage concrete and take years off a driveway. If you’ve ever wondered why your curbs appear chewed up, after a rough winter, there’s your answer! (b) Some deicers corrode and leach heavy metals, damage cars and aluminum siding; the byproducts will eventually make their way into stormdrains, lakes and water supplies carried by stormwater runoff.  (c) Chemicals in many deicers can cause damage in plants and shrubs where deicers have been used, after being applied in large quantities. (d) Excessive salt builds up in soil; prevents plants from absorbing moisture and nutrients. (e) Salt will burn our pets if it lodges in their paws.                                                                                       

How to De-Ice The Bay Friendly Way - The Chesapeake Bay Program Offices. Make the best decisions for your family, our waters and The Chesapeake Bay:

Rock Salt (sodium chloride) most common; contains cyanide, most harmful to plants and toxic to underwater life. 

Calcium chloride does not contain cyanide, but is also harmful to plants. Costs 3x more than rock salt but you need one-third less. 

Magnesium chloride considered least toxic deicing salt, contains less chloride making it somewhat safer for pets and plants.

How to De-Ice The Bay Friendly Way - The Chesapeake Bay Program Offices. Make the best decisions for your family, our waters and The Chesapeake Bay:

Rock Salt (sodium chloride) most common; contains cyanide, most harmful to plants and toxic to underwater life. 

Calcium chloride does not contain cyanide, but is also harmful to plants. Costs 3x more than rock salt but you need one-third less. 

Magnesium chloride considered least toxic deicing salt, contains less chloride making it somewhat safer for pets and plants.

Calcium magnesium acetate considered best overall choice for safely melting ice. Less toxic than deicers containing cyanide, but can cost upwards 

Ice Melt products are considered non-point-source pollution. Non-point pollution transports hydrocarbons, pathogens and sediment scoured from road surfaces; contaminate groundwater and surface-water supplies through storm-water runoff.                                                                             

Kitty litter and sand: While neither will melt ice, they are used for traction and safety. Be sure to sweep up to prevent mushy residue.

We are all in this together!                                                                               Kudos to Norma Eigles for her knowledge and information advocacy in the village of Wilde Lake.