Everyday ToolboxIce Melt Calculator
How much ice melt do I need? A 50 lb bag covers roughly 1,000–2,000 sq ft — but the right amount depends on your ice, your temperature, and your product. Enter your details below for pounds, bags, and cost in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ice melt do I need per square foot?
For moderate ice, plan on roughly 25 lbs of rock salt per 1,000 sq ft (about a half-full coffee mug per 10 sq ft). Calcium chloride is more potent — about 12 lbs per 1,000 sq ft — and magnesium chloride falls in between at about 15 lbs per 1,000 sq ft. Light frost needs about half that; thick ice needs about 1.5×.
Which ice melt works best in extreme cold?
Rock salt stops working around 15°F — below that it just sits there. Magnesium chloride works down to about 5°F. Calcium chloride keeps melting down to about −25°F and works fastest, which is why it is the go-to for deep freezes. This calculator warns you if your chosen product will not work at your temperature.
Is ice melt safe for pets and concrete?
Rock salt and calcium chloride can irritate pets' paws and damage new concrete (under a year old). Magnesium chloride is gentler on both but costs more and works slower. Whichever you use, wipe your pet's paws after walks, and never use ice melt on concrete less than 12 months old — use sand for traction instead.
Can I use too much ice melt?
Yes — over-applying wastes money, damages concrete and plants, and pollutes runoff. More is not better: spread it evenly and sparingly, wait 15–30 minutes, then shovel the slush. A second light application beats one heavy dump.
Does ice melt work on snow, or only ice?
Shovel first, then melt. Ice melt is meant for the thin ice layer left after shoveling — dumping it on 4 inches of snow wastes product and takes forever. Clear the bulk snow, then apply ice melt to the remaining glaze.
Is this ice melt calculator free?
Yes — completely free, no signup, no downloads. It runs 100% in your browser, so your answers never leave your device.