Salting Asphalt: A Guide for Commercial & Residential Pavement Owners

1. Preparation is Key: Shovel or Plow Before You Salt

Before reaching for the salt, clear as much snow as possible from your asphalt. This approach not only reduces the amount of salt needed but also ensures that the salt can reach the ice directly, making it more effective.

2. Less is More

Over-salting can lead to significant damage to both your asphalt and surrounding vegetation. Use salt judiciously; over-application does not accelerate melting and can lead to environmental harm and pavement degradation.

3. Even Distribution

Apply salt uniformly across the area. Piling it in spots might seem logical for areas with more ice, but it can lead to uneven melting and potential damage to concentrated areas.

4. Select the Appropriate Salt for Your Climate

• Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt)
• Cost: $10.28 ($0.24/lb)
• Melting Temperature: Effective down to 5°F.
• Pros: Economical and traditional, it lowers the freezing point of water to about 20°F.
• Cons: Can cause minor asphalt damage if used excessively, especially on flawed surfaces.
• Dangers: Highly toxic to pets if ingested.
• Calcium Chloride
• Cost: $23.98 ($0.47/lb)
• Melting Temperature: Works at temperatures as low as -25°F.
• Pros: Faster acting than rock salt, less harmful to asphalt, and more effective in colder conditions.
• Cons: More expensive and can damage lawns and asphalt if not used correctly.
• Dangers: Less toxic to pets compared to sodium chloride but still harmful if not managed.
• Magnesium Chloride
• Cost: $13.98 ($.35/lb)
• Melting Temperature: Effective down to -15°F.
• Pros: Naturally occurring, less corrosive to asphalt, and safer around pets.
• Cons: Costly and can still cause some damage to asphalt over time.
• Potassium Acetate and Calcium Magnesium Acetate
• Cost: $23.48 ($2.35/lb)
• Melting Temperature: Best used between 0°F to 20°F.
• Pros: Environmentally and pet-friendly, minimal damage to asphalt. These salts are preventive rather than reactive.
• Cons: Pricier and less effective if ice has already set.

5. Post-Application Care

• Clean Up: After the ice has melted, sweep up any remaining salt to prevent it from being washed into the ground or cracks where it can cause long-term damage.
• Pet Safety: Always clean your pet's paws after walks to remove salt residue, which can be irritating or harmful if licked off.

Conclusion

Choosing the right de-icing agent is crucial for maintaining your asphalt in winter. While rock salt is cost-effective, it requires careful application to avoid damage. For those willing to invest more, alternatives like calcium chloride or environmentally friendly options like potassium acetate offer better pavement protection and safety for pets and plants. Remember, the goal is to balance effectiveness with safety for both your property and the environment.

Implement these strategies, and share your experiences with different salts. Your feedback could help others make informed decisions for their asphalt care during the snowy season.