Granular ice melt consists of solid crystals for distributing across pavement and other surfaces. Also known as road salt, it reacts with water to produce heat that melts ice. Its coarse granules melt thick ice and also provide traction. The dry form of granular ice melters makes them easier to apply and store than liquid ice melters, but they require more time to take effect and are more likely to scatter out of the target area.

Liquid ice melt is a ready-to-apply solution that starts working immediately and excels as a pretreatment to prevent icing ahead of freezing conditions. Also known as liquid brine, it coats surfaces thoroughly and won't scatter like granular ice melt. It typically takes more time to apply, washes away more quickly in rainy conditions, and is less effective on thick ice compared to granules.

Traction control compounds provide grit to increase grip for vehicles and foot traffic on icy pavement. They improve traction at the surface level but don't melt ice.