Summary
The article discusses various alternatives to rock salt for clearing ice and snow. It explores the environmental impact and safety concerns associated with rock salt and its alternatives, highlighting benefits and drawbacks. Experts provide insights on products like calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and nonsalt options such as sand.
Key Facts
- Rock salt, or sodium chloride, is cheap and commonly used for de-icing but is harmful to the environment.
- Rock salt loses effectiveness at temperatures below 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Alternatives like calcium chloride and magnesium chloride release heat and are more effective in cold weather but are more expensive.
- All chloride-based de-icers can harm water, plants, and concrete.
- Calcium manganese acetate is considered eco-friendlier but is costly.
- Rock salt can damage plants through soil and air exposure.
- Pets can suffer from dry paws or cuts if they step on salt-treated surfaces.
- Nonsalt options, like sand or gravel, improve traction but have environmental downsides.
