Keeping pathways and driveways clear of snow is as essential as effective management of snow removal during the winter months. Excessive use of bulk salt can cause severe damage to the environment, automobiles, and infrastructure. Therefore, it is important to understand the safest, most effective ways to use road salt.

Application methods

Have a customized approach to each snow removal project. Depending on the requirement, you can follow the below application methods:

Apply salt evenly. Do not pile up bulk salt. Make sure it is spread evenly, covering the entire area. In addition, keep your landscaping material in a dry place, so it is effective when used.

Being proactive is critical. Do a thorough check of the area before the snowstorm. A detailed run-through of the property and surrounding area should be done. This will help you identify any potential issues like poor drainage, landscaped or yard areas, curbs, and so on. Early and frequent shoveling can aid the final snow removal process.

Draft a clear plan of action for each project. Identify the snow piling and disposal beforehand.

Invest in the training of your team. Assign staffing based on the size of the project so that you can make the best use of time and material.

The right amount of road salt or de-icing product depends on the amount of ice it needs to clear.

Track the weather and consider the temperature

Weather and temperature conditions are critical during snow removal.

This directly impacts the de-icing products you need to use. For example, applying sand for immediate traction during icy conditions or using a combination of materials like brine which can be used along with road salt before a heavy storm.

The snow removal process and material used are different for heavy snow, freezing rain, and frost. So tracking the weather conditions will help in being ready to tackle the removal in a better manner.

Understanding various materials

Many materials can be used for snow removal. Here is how you can identify what works best for your project.

A fine grain size salt will act fast but lose its effectiveness equally soon. Coarse grain road salt takes longer to start melting the snow but remains active for a longer duration.

Use liquid de-icer in combination with road salt as it sticks to the snow better and has less bounce rate.

Ensure proper storage of your landscaping supplies so that they stay effective.

Choosing your equipment wisely

The equipment you would have to use will depend on the area and the amount of snow that needs to be cleared. Allocate equipment based on the purpose it needs to fulfill, the capacity of material it needs to carry, and how easily your team can manage it. You can choose between plowers mounted on loaders and trucks, power brooms, snow blowers, and shovels for the mechanical removal of snow. Following this, hand-held, walk-behind, or vehicle-mounted spreaders can be used to apply bulk salt. If you are using liquid de-icing products, you will need portable sprayers, spray vehicles, or tankers.

Refer to the action plan of previous projects for regular clients, and analyze what went right and where you can improve this year. This will help you effectively allocate your resources, like staffing, equipment, and supplies.

Effective planning will always help you manage your snow removal projects in a better manner. This is the time you can maximize the profits for your business. Follow these tips as a general guideline and save money, energy, and time! Need to stock up on your winter supplies? Contact FSI Landscape Supply today for bulk road salt!