Help loosen packed snow and ice on driveways, sidewalks, and walkways with Snow Joe MAGFL50 Magnesium Chloride Ice Melting Flakes, a fast-acting, low-residue formula that also supports dust control on listed unpaved surfaces.
Meet the MAGFL50
Key Components
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | MAGFL50 |
| Product Type | Magnesium chloride ice melting flakes |
| Minimum Effective Temperature | −13°F |
| Recommended Ice-Control Application Rate | Approximately 1–4 lb per 500 sq. ft., depending on snow and ice accumulation |
| Net Weight | 50 lb (22.7 kg) |
| Listed Surfaces | Driveways, sidewalks, walkways, and other suitable treated surfaces |
| Listed Dust-Control Uses | Gravel roads, parking areas, riding arenas, laneways, and other unpaved surfaces |
What’s in the Bag
- 50 lb (22.7 kg) of magnesium chloride ice melting flakes
Before Application
- Check the surface. Do not use on precast concrete steps, masonry walks, poor-quality concrete, brick, or concrete less than one year old. If you are unsure whether the surface is suitable, consult a concrete professional.
- Clear deep snow. When snow is deeper than 2 inches, first remove the excess accumulation with an appropriate snow-removal tool.
- Choose an applicator. Use a suitable utility scoop or salt spreader to distribute the flakes evenly.
- Protect nearby vegetation. Avoid excessive application around plants and vegetation; no deicer is completely harmless to plant life.
Getting Started & Application
- Spread the flakes evenly. Apply approximately 1–4 lb per 500 sq. ft., adjusting within that range for the amount of snow and ice present.
- Allow time to work. Let the flakes penetrate and loosen the ice.
- Remove the slush. Shovel away the loosened snow, ice, and slush.
- Reapply when needed. Repeat the application during refreezing conditions as necessary.
Dust Control
The magnesium chloride flakes may also be used as an economical dust suppressant on gravel roads, parking areas, riding arenas, laneways, and other unpaved surfaces. Follow the directions on the product packaging and always use only as directed.
Maintenance, Care & Storage
- Close the bag securely. Keep the container tightly closed between applications.
- Store it properly. Keep the product in a cool, dry place.
- Prevent overapplication. Use only the amount directed for the conditions and avoid excessive use around concrete, plants, and vegetation.
- Keep it inaccessible. Store it out of reach of children.
Troubleshooting
Possible Causes
- Snow accumulation is deeper than 2 inches.
Solutions
- Remove the excess snow first, then apply the flakes to the remaining packed snow and ice.
Possible Causes
- Refreezing conditions are continuing.
Solutions
- Reapply as needed during refreezing conditions, following the labeled application rate.
Possible Causes
- The surface is new, precast, masonry, brick, poor-quality concrete, or otherwise potentially susceptible.
Solutions
- Do not apply the product until a concrete professional confirms that the surface is suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold can it be and still work?
MAGFL50 is designed to melt snow and ice at temperatures as low as −13°F.
How much should I apply?
Apply approximately 1–4 lb per 500 sq. ft., depending on the amount of snow and ice present.
Is it less corrosive than traditional ice melt?
The product page states that magnesium chloride is less corrosive than many traditional chloride-based ice melters when used as directed.
Can it be used around pets?
MAGFL50 is labeled “Pet Safer.” Always follow the package directions, avoid excessive application, and store the product out of reach of children and animals.
Can it be used outside the winter season?
Yes. The product page also lists the flakes for economical dust suppression on gravel roads, parking areas, riding arenas, laneways, and other unpaved surfaces.
Can this item be returned or exchanged?
No. Shop Joe identifies ice melt as a consumable item that is final sale and cannot be exchanged or returned. Purchases from an authorized retailer are subject to that retailer’s return policy.