Ice Melt Flakes Vs. Pellets

Ice Melt Flakes

• Ice melt flakes are composed of calcium chloride. The flakes do not leave a residue, nor are they harmful to cement walkways and driveways that are over a year old. Flakes work horizontally across snow and ice and do not penetrate well.

Ice Melt Pellets

• Ice melt pellets, like flakes, are made of calcium chloride. They work in temperatures reaching -25 F. Pellets go underneath the ice and snow surface to melt the layers from below. Pellets do not leave a residue.

Hazards

• As both ice melt pellets and flakes are made of calcium chloride, both can cause damage to vegetation; avoid contact with plants during the application. Neither of the products is inherently damaging to the grass, trees or shrubs, but overuse or constant application of either product can cause browning similar to overuse of fertilization.

Verdict

• Both products have their strengths. Ice melt flakes work right at the top of a surface and help provide traction for vehicles during rough conditions. Pellets penetrate to the bottom of the ice and are more easily spread, causing a larger area to melt quickly.

  Both are fairly harmless when used in recommended amounts, and neither has a lasting effect on concrete. There are reasons for choosing both. However, in general, because pellets are less expensive and more efficient, they may be your better choice.