Is Rock Salt a Safe Option for Melting Snow and Ice on Your Roof?

 

Rock Salt Roof

The winter months see homeowners searching for ways to scrape away the snow and ice from their roofs. Rock salt is perhaps the most obvious choice in many situations, since one would use it for de-icing sidewalks or driveways. But is it really safe for the roof? Let’s examine the pros and cons of rock salt and rock salt shells with regards to other routes that are less harmful to the homeowner’s roof.

How Rock Salt Works

Rock salt (sodium chloride) reduces the freezing point of water, which inhibits ice from forming and melts snow. It’s widely used on roads, sidewalks, and driveways due to its cost-effectiveness. Yet, as effective as it is on horizontal surfaces, a salt roof situation can be quite different.

Why Rock Salt Can Be Dangerous to Your Roof

1. Damage to Roofing Materials

Rock salt is extremely corrosive. One pollution can damage shingles, metal flashings, and gutters, which will turn out to be very expensive if not monitored closely. Proper roofing maintenance is essential to prevent such damage. The asphalt shingles will get dehydrated by the salt and assume a brittle state, ultimately cracking more easily.

2. Water Damage & Leaks

The presence of salt facilitates melting of snow quickly, and allows for the water to run into cracks that will freeze once the temperature drops. Repeated cycles of melting and freezing, also called ice damming, could cause severe roof leaks and debilitate the structure

3. Toxic to Plants and Landscaping

When the snow thaws, the saltwater trickles off your roof onto your lawn and garden. Excessive salt levels can kill plants, ruin soil, and even damage nearby trees.

4. Metal Corrosion

If your roof contains metal parts, rock salt can hasten rust and corrosion, causing compromised structures and expensive replacements.

5. Danger to Pets & Wildlife

If ingested by pets and wildlife, it is toxic. It irritates the paws of animals, causing discomfort and pain. Run-off from the rock salt can also negatively affect aquatic life if allowed to enter the water bodies. 

Safer Alternatives to Rock Salt for Your Roof

Rather than using rock salt, use these safer and effective alternatives:

1. Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA)

CMA is an eco-friendly product that is a less corrosive de-icer than rock salt, and can also safely be used around plants, pets, and roofing materials. It is effective at lower temperatures and keeps ice from building without doing extensive damage.

2. Roof Heating Cables

Mounting heat cables along the perimeter of your roof melts snow slowly, avoiding hazardous ice dams. The cables offer a long-term solution without damaging structures.

3. Snow Rakes

A snow rake lets you remove snow from your roof safely without chemicals. Removing excess snow prevents ice accumulation and places less stress on your roof.

4. Sand or Kitty Litter

Though these substances do not melt snow, they add traction, ultimately preventing ice-related accidents. They are also safer for your roof and the environment.

5. Professional Ice Dam Removal

If you do have ice accumulation, having a professional remove it with steam is a safe and efficient solution. Steam dissolves ice without harming roofing materials.

Preventing Ice and Snow Accumulation on Your Roof

Taking preventative steps can avoid the necessity of using de-icers in the first place:

  • Improve Attic Insulation: Proper insulation keeps the attic warm, which also prevents snowmelt and guards against the risk of ice dam formation.
  • Ensure Proper Ventilation:  An attic where ventilation works well will ensure uniform temperature within the roof, so there will be no uneven melting. 
  • Keep Gutters Clean: Gutters filled with melted snow cause ice dams. Regular gutter cleaning before winter can help prevent this problem and keep your roof safe from damage.
  • Install Ice & Water Shields: Install these shields to prevent leaks from the melt water and ice. 

Conclusion

While rock salt might provide immediate relief within a single use to melt ice and snow away from your roof, it can cause long-term damage. Instead, safer alternatives include a calcium magnesium acetate solution, heating cables, or manually shoveling snow to protect your home. Prevention will also help maintain a healthy roof in winter.

Leak No More Inc provides professional roofing services to help keep your roof in top condition during the winter months. 

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