If you’ve lived in Nebraska for many years like we have, you know the winters are highly unpredictable. From mild and dry, to cold and wet, or any combination of those conditions, you never really know what to expect from December through March.

One thing you can count on is that you’ll have to clear your hardscapes at least once, whether due to ice or snow. However, knowing the right types of products to use to get the job done can elude even the most seasoned Nebraskan. To help, we’re breaking down different types of salt products salt products for snow and ice and the best uses for each.

Rock Salt: This product is mostly used on roads, largely because it is inexpensive. However, it is also highly corrosive. Rock salt works best at temperatures above 15 degrees Fahrenheit and for large-scale commercial jobs.

Chlorides: The variety of chloride products can be confusing.

  • Sodium chloride is the most consumer-friendly and least expensive salt; however, it doesn’t work when the temps dip below zero. It is, however, minimally corrosive.
  • Calcium chloride is best for seriously cold weather, as low as –25. Watch out, this one packs a punch: Calcium chloride is considered moderately corrosive if it doesn’t dissolve completely upon application.
  • Magnesium chloride is a happy medium – it is minimally corrosive but also works in below-zero temperatures. It’s on the pricier side, which may be cost-prohibitive if you’re treating a large area.

If these products are applied correctly and surfaces are kept clean of undissolved salt following application, you can avoid significant corrosion to your concrete.

To protect decorative surfaces, such as paver patios and stamped concrete, you want to use the least corrosive product possible. If you’re especially concerned, there are concrete sealer products, such as Saltguard, that are chemically engineered to protect these surfaces. If you’d rather leave the sealing to an expert, our team offers paver patio sealing and would be happy to help.

A final note for our furry friends: Most chlorides are uncomfortable for pet paws. The process of the salt melting the snow and ice creates heat, which can irritate the paws’ delicate skin. The salt is also drying, which can cause cracking and discomfort. Pets may lick their paws because of the discomfort and, in turn, ingest the salts which can cause gastrointestinal issues. You can safely keep these products in your home by storing open bags out of reach of pets (and kids!) and by keeping your pets from walking on freshly applied salts. Also, get in the habit of cleaning your pet’s paws after they come inside.

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Clear Creek Landscaping is an Omaha landscaping company comprised of experienced landscape design professionals. Whether you’re looking for backyard design in Omaha, an Omaha patio builder, an Omaha paver patio designer, or custom landscape design in Omaha, the team at Clear Creek Landscaping has the experience and knowledge to handle it all.