Preparing for a Snow Day in Utah: Best Ice Melt Salt Products to Keep on Hand This Winter

Did you know that "it is unlawful for the owner, occupant, lessor, or agent of property… to fail to remove... all hail, snow, or sleet… within twenty four (24) hours after such hail, snow, or sleet” has stopped in Salt Lake City? Whether you’re a homeowner trying to keep your driveway safe, a contractor managing job sites, a property owner maintaining sidewalks, or a landscaper working through the colder months, having the right ice melt salt on hand is a must for winter storms. Slippery walkways, driveways, and parking lots can quickly become a safety hazard or legal risk, so being prepared can save you time, effort, and potential injury.

Choosing the right ice melt salt or road salt can make all the difference. Some products work better in extreme cold, while others are safer for concrete, landscaping, and pets. Kilgore’s been in the business for over 40 years, so we have all the right products like Type C White Bulk Road Salt and Purple Heat Ice Melt, and can tell you when and how to use them.

Why Ice Melt Is a Must-Have in Utah

In Utah, snowstorms can arrive suddenly, leaving thick ice on driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots. Once ice forms, it can be difficult to remove, and using just a shovel won’t always do the trick. That’s where ice melt salt comes in. It works by lowering the freezing point of water, helping break down ice and preventing new ice from forming.

For homeowners, this means safer walkways and driveways. For contractors and landscapers, it means keeping job sites accessible. And for property owners, it helps avoid liability from slip-and-fall accidents. You just need to have the right product on hand before the storm hits.

Best Ice Melt Salt Products for Utah Winters

Different types of ice melt salt have unique benefits, depending on temperature, application needs, and surface safety. Below are the best options available at Kilgore Landscape Center.

1. Traditional Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride) – Type C White Bulk Road Salt

• Best for: Homeowners, contractors, and property owners needing an affordable option for driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots.

• Works down to: 15°F

• Pros: Cost-effective, widely available, and effective for moderate winter conditions.

• Cons: Can be harsh on concrete and landscaping if overused.

Kilgore Landscape Center’s Type C White Bulk Road Salt is a great choice for large-scale ice management. This high-quality bulk road salt is ideal for treating parking lots, long driveways, and commercial properties. Buying in bulk ensures you have enough supply to last through multiple storms without needing frequent restocks.

2. Fast-Acting Calcium Chloride Ice Melt – Ice Bomb Ice Melt

• Best for: Contractors and property owners dealing with thick ice and extreme cold.

• Works down to: -25°F

• Pros: Works quickly, generates heat to break down ice faster, and remains effective in very low temperatures.

• Cons: Can be more expensive than rock salt, but highly effective.

Kilgore’s Ice Bomb Ice Melt is one of the best options for Utah’s coldest winter days. It’s a powerful calcium chloride-based ice melt salt that begins working on contact, rapidly breaking down ice even in subzero temperatures. This makes it a go-to choice for commercial properties, construction sites, and areas prone to thick ice buildup.

3. Magnesium Chloride Ice Melt – Polar Ice Melt

• Best for: Homeowners, landscapers, and pet owners needing a safer option.

• Works down to: -10°F

• Pros: Less harsh on concrete, vegetation, and pets compared to other ice melts.

• Cons: Slightly more expensive than rock salt but much gentler on surfaces.

For those looking for an effective yet safer alternative to rock salt, Kilgore’s Polar Ice Melt is a great solution. This magnesium chloride-based ice melt provides strong melting power while being safer for plants, pets, and concrete. It’s an excellent option for homeowners who want to clear their driveways and sidewalks without worrying about damage to their landscaping.

4. Blended Ice Melt for Maximum Performance – Purple Heat Ice Melt

• Best for: Homeowners, property owners, and contractors needing an all-purpose, fast-acting solution.

• Works down to: Varies based on the blend.

• Pros: Combines multiple ice melt types for faster melting and reduced damage to surfaces.

• Cons: More expensive than single-ingredient ice melts, but offers superior performance.

Kilgore’s Purple Heat Ice Melt is a premium blended ice melt that combines calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and sodium chloride. This blend provides powerful ice-melting action in a wide range of temperatures while reducing the risk of damage to concrete and landscaping. The bright purple color makes it easy to see where it has been applied, helping prevent overuse. It’s a  looking for a reliable ice melt salt solution.

Why Bulk Road Salt is a Smart Investment

For contractors, property managers, and businesses, keeping a supply of bulk road salt is essential. Large areas like parking lots, private roads, and commercial walkways need consistent treatment throughout the winter. Buying in bulk ensures you always have enough on hand, so you’re not rushing to find salt when a storm is on the way.

Advantages of bulk road salt:
✅ Cost savings – Buying in bulk is more affordable than purchasing small bags over and over.
✅ Always prepared – Having a large supply means you won’t run out when you need it most.
✅ Efficient application – Spreading large amounts is easier when you have bulk storage.

If you’re a contractor managing multiple job sites, or a business owner responsible for winter maintenance, bulk road salt is a must.

How to Use Ice Melt Effectively

Using ice melt salt the right way can help you get the best results while avoiding waste and potential damage. Here’s how to apply it properly:

1. Apply Before the Storm

Spreading ice melt salt before snowfall can prevent ice from bonding to surfaces. This makes snow removal easier and reduces the amount of salt needed.

2. Use the Right Amount

Applying too much salt won’t melt ice faster—it just leads to runoff and potential surface damage. Follow the recommended application rates on the packaging.

3. Spread It Evenly

A salt spreader can help get an even coverage. If applying by hand, use a shaker or cup to distribute the salt in a thin, even layer.

4. Reapply as Needed

After shoveling or plowing, apply another light layer to prevent refreezing.

Where to Buy Ice Melt and Bulk Road Salt in Utah

If you’re looking to stock up on road salt or high-quality ice melt salt, it’s best to buy from a trusted local supplier like Kilgore’s Salt Lake Landscape Center. This ensures you’re getting the right product for Utah’s winter conditions without worrying about shortages during peak snowfall.

We offer:

• Rock salt, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and blended products

• Bulk purchasing options for contractors, businesses, and property owners

• Delivery or pickup options for convenience

Whether you need a few bags for personal use or bulk road salt for large-scale snow removal, planning ahead will keep you prepared for the next winter storm.

What To Remember

Utah winters can be harsh, but having the right ice melt salt on hand makes all the difference. Whether you’re clearing a small driveway, managing a commercial property, or maintaining roads for a construction project, choosing the right product will help keep surfaces safe and manageable. Check out https://www.weather.gov/slc/ for real-time weather predications so you can make the best decisions about when to buy salt products.

For larger properties, investing in bulk road salt guarantees that you’re always prepared. Stock up before the next storm, and you’ll be ready to take on weather!