I had a 4" pad poured outside my garage this May. Will it harm it if I use ice melt on it this winter? The stuff you buy at Walmart, not rock salt.

I'd use the Calcium Chloride based stuff, NOT regular rock salt. That stuff is rough

Agreed - use calcium chloride.

Propane torch.

Calcium chloride. Can also use at lower temps. More expensive but wont eat concrete.

Something else to consider since you live in Minnesota is that regular sodium chloride stops working at temperatures warmer than the lows you get in Minnesota. In short, it’s another reason to use calcium chloride.

I remember living in Buffalo and my dad having me coat the concrete with something called anti-spaulding compound?

quote:

anti-spaulding compound

Anti- spalling (i.e., pieces or fragments breaking loose) compound sounds more plausible.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spall#Salt_spalling

Definitely calcium chloride ... used if for years on my daughter's concrete driveway and sidewalks in Spokane with no problems. Also mix it with some sand for a little extra traction.

Do not use rock salt.

rock salt will eat your concrete.