Rock Salt vs Ice Melt: Understanding the differences

The food industry isn't the only one in need of bulk salt purchases. If you live in colder climates, then property managers, homeowners, or local governments will find bulk ice melt salt purchases useful for handling ice during winter storms.

Which Salt is Best for Melting Ice?

Rock salt vs ice melt salt is a common comparison. There are two types of salt compounds most commonly used to manage ice. You may use rock salt, or a specific ice melt salt usually just known as ice melt.

Rock salt is the less expensive option, making it a popular choice. Rock salt is good for when you need to add traction to an icy ground quickly, but it is overall slower at melting ice. Take caution when using rock salt, as it can stain easily and can damage pavement surfaces, cars and landscaping.

You may recognize ice melt salt from its added blue color. Ice melt salt costs will vary depending on the compound blend. Either way, ice melt rids ice more quickly than rock salt. You'll find ice melt more useful in exceptionally cold temperatures, as rock salt isn't effective when temperatures reach under five degrees.

Uses for Bulk Ice Melt Salt

Both rock salt and ice melt are fundamentally sodium chloride like any other type of salt. However, rock salt is untreated and ice melt salt usually mixes with potassium or calcium and dye. As a result, both of these options are not intended for human consumption as they can be damaging to the digestive system.

As expected, ice melt salt is a compound made for preventing ice from forming. Ice melt salt doesn't technically melt ice. The mixture makes it more difficult for water to freeze, even at freezing temperatures. The salt combined with friction from car tires is what turns the ice and snow into slush, thus preventing ice from forming, or reforming.

When ice melt salt gets old, it may clump together. You can still break up these clumps and use the product as is, or alternatively, you can turn it into a liquid and still use it to melt ice.

Where to Purchase Bulk Ice Melt Salt

Want to know the best tip for using ice melt salt? Buying it in bulk. Stock up now before the weather gets cold.

At Indiana Sugars, we go beyond supplying sugar and salts to our favorite restaurant partners. Our product line is versatile enough for many industries to find what they need. We specialize in bulk purchases, so you can experience savings and convenience all at once.

We know all to well that ice and snow are a pain to deal with. Prepare yourself in advance and put winter out of your mind with the purchase of ice melt salt today. Reach out to us to get started on your shipments. No matter how much salt you need, we're here to help.

With us, you'll receive timely shipments from any of our four locations across the country. There's really no competition when it comes to our quality products and service. Browse our catalog to view all available products.