Roofs, Concrete & Residues
Ice Melters on Roofs
Ice and snow buildup on the roof can threaten the structural integrity of a building. Applying ice melter before the buildup becomes severe can help avoid problems. Here are some tips for application on a roof:
- Do not use on metal roofs.
- Apply ice melter carefully to minimize damage to plants below.
- Ensure brine can be channeled off quickly through eavestroughs and gutters. Ice melter solution from the downspout has the potential to cause damage to vegetation due to the high concentration discharged in one area. This can be diluted with water to reduce the potential for damage
- Ensure pedestrians are not at risk from falling ice.
Ice Melters and Concrete
Most concrete damage is a result of the natural effects of freeze-thaw cycles, not a chemical attack by an ice melter. Moisture seeps into the surface pores and cracks in the concrete,and as it changes to ice, expands and puts pressure on surrounding surfaces. Stress on weaker areas in the concrete may result in cracking or surface deterioration.
Using an ice melter increases the number of freeze-thaw cycles, and the potential for damage to concrete.
However, the hazards and risk of injury associated with slippery surfaces must be weighed against this.
Properly air-entrained concrete designed for cold weather climates (as recommended by the Portland Cement Association) has a network of tiny air pockets that allow it to accommodate freeze-thaw cycles.
Poor quality surfaces may not withstand the stress associated with these cycles. Ice melter is not recommended on the following surfaces; concrete that is less than 1 year old, masonry (stone or brick), precast concrete (steps or paving stones), stone or concrete surfaces that are chipped, cracked, spalled or have exposed aggregate.
Here are some recommendations for reducing the risk of damage to concrete:
- Apply ice melter at recommended rates
- Use a push type or hand held ice melter spreader An ice melter with an environmentally inert dye marker can make it easier to prevent overapplication
- Use an ice melter with extended refreezing protection
- Remove slush and water before refreezing occurs
- Avoid using ice melters on non air-entrained concrete or other vulnerable surfaces
- Apply a commercial strength sealer when dry
If you are unsure of the quality of your concrete or the suitability of using an ice melter on your surface; use Get A Grip® Super Traction for traction only, to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Freeze-Thaw Cycle
- Freeze: Layer of ice on concrete surface
- Thaw: Thawed ice (water) fills surface pores and cracks
- Refreeze: Expansion caused by refreezing can result in additional damage
Ice Melter Residues on Carpet or Flooring
While ice melter residues are common on sidewalks and parking lots, tracking of ice melters indoors can also result in residues on floors and carpets.
When sodium or potassium chlorides are applied, they melt into the snow to form a brine solution. If the concentration is great enough, a dry white residue may be left after evaporation. These residues are water soluble and are usually easy to remove.
Calcium chloride can also leave a residue on floors. To avoid residue build-up and protect interior surface areas, neutralizing agents and floor conditioners can be used.
On carpeted surfaces, shampooing will remove residues tracked in from ice melters should vacuuming not provide sufficient cleaning action.
Avoid the use of pure traction aids such as sand, which will not melt ice and can scuff polished surfaces.
Residues from ice melters are greatly increased with over application.
Using a coloured ice melter as well as proper application equipment will help to prevent over application.
