When winter creates icy walkways and hazardous surfaces, homeowners and businesses rely on ice melters to restore safety. While rock salt and calcium chloride remain common choices, mag ice melting pellets offer a more surface-friendly and environmentally responsible alternative. Made primarily from magnesium chloride, these pellets perform well in sub-zero temperatures while reducing damage to concrete, landscaping, and nearby surfaces. Magnesium chloride used in mag ice melting pellets is often sourced from the Dead Sea, emphasizing its natural origin.
This guide explains how mag ice melting pellets work, their key advantages, and how to apply them correctly for reliable ice control. If you are looking for a lower-corrosion, pet-conscious ice melt for driveways, sidewalks, and commercial properties, magnesium chloride is a practical option. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we recommend mag ice melting pellets for their balance of performance, safety, and long-term surface protection.
What Are Mag Ice Melting Pellets?
Mag ice melting pellets are small, spherical granules made from magnesium chloride. This compound is highly effective in melting ice, particularly in extremely low temperatures. Unlike common ice melters like rock salt, it remains potent even in the harshest winter conditions. Magnesium chloride works by lowering the freezing point of water, making it an ideal choice for freezing conditions.
How Mag Ice Melting Pellets Work
When you spread magnesium chloride ice melt pellets over snow and ice, the granules begin to dissolve. This creates a brine that effectively breaks down the bond between the ice and the surface beneath. Because magnesium chloride has lower toxicity and reduced corrosiveness, it is safer for pets, plants, concrete, and nearby landscaping than harsher ice melters.
Key Benefits of Using Mag Ice Melting Pellets
Mag ice melting pellets offer several distinct advantages over traditional ice melters, making them especially suitable for use in residential areas. Here are some key benefits:
Low Temperature Effectiveness
Magnesium chloride performs reliably in cold winter conditions, remaining effective in most sub-zero temperatures common to residential and commercial use. This makes it suitable for most residential and commercial applications where consistent ice control is needed without aggressive surface damage.
Calcium chloride, by comparison, performs better in extreme cold and heavy snowfall but is more corrosive and harsher on concrete and metal. For most properties, magnesium chloride offers a better balance between melting performance and surface protection.
Safer for Concrete and Metal Surfaces
One of the key advantages of mag ice melting pellets is that they are less corrosive than traditional rock salt. This makes them a better choice for concrete driveways, concrete sidewalks, and nearby metal surfaces.
Independent tests conducted by the Virginia Department of Transportation and the Swedish VTI confirm that MAG® is safer for use on concrete sidewalks and metal surfaces. These studies found that calcium chloride caused 26 times more chipping and scaling on concrete than MAG®, while sodium chloride caused 63 times more. Over time, reduced corrosion means fewer repairs, longer surface lifespan, and lower maintenance costs for both homeowners and property managers.
Environmentally Friendly and Pet Safe
Mag ice melting pellets are a greener choice compared to traditional deicers. The pellets are biodegradable and have lower toxicity, which means they won’t harm plants, soil, or animals when used correctly. They are less irritating to paws and skin than traditional rock salt when used as directed
How to Apply Mag Ice Melting Pellets Effectively
To get the best results from mag ice melting pellets, it’s important to apply them correctly. Here’s how you can maximize their effectiveness:
Ideal Conditions for Application
Mag ice melting pellets should be applied when the snow or ice is dry or only slightly wet. For best results, sprinkle the pellets evenly over the surface you want to treat. Avoid applying them when there’s standing water, as this can dilute the effectiveness of the pellets.
How Much to Use
When applying magnesium chloride, it’s important to avoid overuse. Too many pellets can leave a residue on surfaces, and not enough can lead to ineffective melting. A general rule is to use about 1 to 2 pounds of pellets per 100 square feet. Adjust based on the severity of the weather and ice thickness.
Safety Considerations for Application
While mag ice melting pellets are gentle on skin and do not cause irritation, it’s still essential to handle them carefully. Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the pellets, and make sure to store them in a dry location to maintain their effectiveness.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability of Mag Ice Melting Pellets
Magnesium chloride is known for its low environmental impact compared to most other ice melters, like rock salt or calcium chloride.
Eco-friendly Characteristics of Magnesium Chloride
Mag ice melting pellets are a great choice for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Unlike sodium chloride, which can cause chloride contamination in water sources, magnesium chloride is less harmful to surface waters and wildlife.
Impact on Soil, Plants, and Water
One of the most significant concerns with traditional ice melters is their impact on the environment. Many deicers, including common table salt, can damage green areas, plants, and even lakes due to snow dumps’ harmful chlorides at high levels. Magnesium chloride’s lower chloride content makes it a more environmentally friendly alternative, especially in areas with sensitive vegetation or wildlife.
Cost Comparison: Are Mag Ice Melting Pellets Worth It?
While mag ice melting pellets may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional salt, they offer significant long-term benefits. Let’s look at the value:
Magnesium Chloride vs. Other Deicers
Magnesium chloride typically costs more than commercial ice melters like rock salt or calcium chloride. However, unlike calcium chloride, which is known for its corrosiveness to concrete and metal surfaces and its higher environmental toxicity, magnesium chloride contains less chloride. It also provides better performance in lower temperatures and is less damaging to concrete, metal, and the environment. In fact, when you consider less frequent reapplication and the longer-lasting effects, magnesium chloride can be more cost-effective than cheaper alternatives.
Factors Affecting Ice Melter Prices
The price of mag ice melting pellets can vary depending on the brand, packaging, and delivery costs. However, buying in bulk or seasonal promotions can help you save on costs. Be sure to check for any special offers or discounts that suppliers may offer during the winter season.
Storage and Shelf Life of Magnesium Chloride Pellets
Proper storage helps mag ice melting pellets stay effective throughout the winter season. Magnesium chloride naturally attracts moisture from the air, so keeping the product sealed and dry is essential to maintaining performance.
Keep Pellets Sealed and Dry
Always store magnesium chloride pellets in their original bag or in a sealed container. Place them in a dry, covered area such as a garage, shed, or storage room. Exposure to rain, snow, or high humidity can cause the pellets to absorb moisture and clump together.
Moisture Absorption and Clumping
Because magnesium chloride is hygroscopic, some clumping can occur over time, especially in humid conditions. This does not mean the product has gone bad. Clumped pellets can usually be broken apart by hand or with light agitation and will still melt ice effectively once applied.
Shelf Life When Stored Properly
When kept dry and sealed, mag ice melting pellets have a long shelf life and can remain effective for multiple seasons. There is no strict expiration date, but performance is best when the pellets are protected from prolonged moisture exposure.
Storage Tips for Bulk Buyers and Contractors
For bulk storage, use moisture-resistant containers or pallets wrapped in plastic to reduce air exposure. Elevating bags off the ground also helps prevent moisture absorption from concrete floors. These simple steps help ensure consistent performance and reduce product waste over time.
Conclusion
Mag ice melting pellets offer a proven professional-grade snow solution that is highly effective, environmentally friendly, and pet-safe for ice and snow removal. With superior performance in low temperatures and a gentler impact on surfaces compared to traditional deicers, magnesium chloride is a smart choice for homeowners and businesses alike. While it may have a higher upfront cost, its long-term benefits in performance and sustainability make it worth the investment.
At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we offer a wide selection of mag ice melting pellets to help you manage ice and snow effectively this winter. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business, we have the right solution for you. Contact us today to learn more or to place an order for eco-friendly and efficient ice management products.
FAQs
What type of sidewalk salt is best for use so it doesn’t destroy the sidewalk?
Magnesium chloride is the best option for sidewalks as it is less corrosive than traditional rock salt and less likely to damage concrete or metal surfaces over time. It is also safer for plants and pets.
Why is calcium magnesium acetate a better deicer than rock salt?
Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is a better deicer than rock salt because it is less corrosive, making it safer for concrete, plants, and metal surfaces. It also works effectively in a wider range of temperatures and has a lower environmental impact.
Is magnesium chloride more corrosive than salt?
No, magnesium chloride is less corrosive than traditional rock salt (sodium chloride). It is gentler on surfaces such as concrete and metal, reducing long-term damage and wear.
What is the best way to melt ice on sidewalks?
The best way to melt ice on sidewalks is by using magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate, as both are effective at lower temperatures and safer for surfaces. Apply evenly, and avoid overuse to prevent residue buildup.
