Winter is coming. Are you ready? Ice and snow can be hazardous for employees and customers entering and exiting your facility. Reduce the risk of snow and ice-related accidents and make your sidewalks, entryways and parking lots safe and accessible by selecting the proper ice melt products and applying them correctly. It’s never too early to have a winter weather action plan in place.
Selecting the Right Ice Melt
It's important to remember that all ice melt is not created equal. Different products have various levels of effectiveness and price points due to the ingredients used and formulations. Important considerations are...
- Melt Temperature – What is the lowest temperature at which the ice melt needs to work?
- Time – How quickly will you need the product to work?
- Color – Pellets that stand out help with even distribution and eliminate waste.
- Environment – How high is the concern for animal or vegetation safety? Ice Brute® is perfect for sensitive environmental areas, and includes a bio-based melting accelerant.
Types of Ice Melt
- Liquid De-Icers – Applied prior to a storm, liquid formulas can melt snow as it falls. Triple Melt® Liquid De-Icer prevents the bonding of snow to pavement, reducing after-storm clean up time and the amount of after-storm granular ice melt needed.
- Blended Ice Melt – Created with various chemicals or compounds, blends allow you to melt snow and ice based on temperatures and conditions. Often, accelerating chemicals are added in as well. Titan® Ice Melter is Nassco’s most popular and economical choice, while Triple Melt® is the most aggressive blended granular product available.
- Calcium Chloride Based Pellets – Used for the most demanding conditions and lowest temperatures, products like Pedalow® Calcium Chloride and Ice Foe® melt snow and ice in temperatures of -25°F and help prevent refreezing. Used as directed, they have little to no impact on concrete, tires, floors or carpeting.
Application Counts
Almost as important as the product you select is the way it is applied. In order work correctly, it's essential to use ice melt as directed. Follow these general steps but be sure to read the directions for the specific ice melt product you are using.
- Liquid ice melt can be applied ahead of predicted storms.
- Spread (or spray) ice melt product evenly over the desired area.
- Allow it time to penetrate and create heat to melt snow and ice.
- Scrape off any remaining ice and product from surface to avoid refreezing.
Nassco experts can explain each ice melt product in detail to help you determine which is right for you. Stocking up now puts you ahead of the game and gives you peace of mind, knowing that you are prepared for whatever winter brings your way.