What is the difference between calcium chloride and rock salt

Calcium chloride is another popular option. It is favored by many because of its attractive qualities. These include :. The major drawback of this form of de-icer is its cost. However, many ice melts overcome this by using it in combination with other ingredients. If, for example, it is combined with rock salt, it retains its overall effectiveness while reducing the overall cost. This makes the ice melt cost-effective.

When it comes to ice melts, rock salt remains popular. It is less expensive than other products, including calcium chloride. However, of all the salts currently in usage as ice melts, rock salt remains the harshest on the environment. While calcium chloride is more expensive, it causes less eco damage. Flora and fauna suffer less from it being used. Moreover, it causes less damage to concrete surfaces. Calcium Chloride also has the edge over rock salt on this one, having less of an impact on soil and plants.

For pavements and parking lots not surrounded by wildlife or plants, however, Sodium Chloride is perfectly fine. On the speed of melting, Calcium Chloride wins this one too. Rock salt offers a gradual melt, mixing with ice water to form a brine that spreads and continually makes it difficult for ice to bond with the ground.

Calcium Chloride, however, quickly absorbs water and changes its melting point, making it a much quicker-acting agent. Sodium Chloride needs to be applied regularly throughout a weather event — as does Calcium Chloride — but will typically need to be applied in larger quantities. Sometimes this is absolutely the best idea. Combining these two agents reduces your expenditure and reduces the chance of ice bonding with outdoor surfaces at a wide variety of temperatures.

The cheap nature of Sodium Chloride, combined with its effectiveness and the unique benefits of Calcium Chloride makes combining these two solutions ideal for many kinds of businesses.

Still wondering if calcium chloride is better than sodium chloride? However, for businesses looking to minimize the impact of freezing temperatures, either Calcium Chloride or a combination of both will provide a reliable deicing effect that you need.

You will have to decide on whether to use rock salt vs. Photo is Courtesy of Chemistry Land. The Wanaque showroom will be open to clients by appointment only. Please call to schedule an appointment. Showroom Products Stone Materials.

Decorative Stone. Mason Supplies. Cement Bags. Rock Salt. Home Improvement. Drainage Solutions. Rock Salt vs.