Ice Melt Do's & Don'ts: 5 Common Mistakes

Do's & Don'ts of Ice Melt

Are you properly applying Ice Melt? Here are 5 mistakes that waste ice melt and make the product ineffective.

Mistake #1 - Not Using It

When a storm dumps snow, you may not see a need to put down Ice Melt as long as the parking lots and sidewalks have been shoveled. However, underneath the snow is typically a thin layer of ice that wouldn't be there if Ice Melt had been used. Even a light dusting of snow can lead to slippery conditions if the snow melts and refreezes as the day goes on.

Mistake #2 - Using Too Much

Overusing can lead to Ice Melt being unnecessarily tracked into the facility. It may also burn the vegetation beneath or around where the product is used. Manufacturers recommend applying Ice Melt using a handheld spreader for small areas and a walk-behind spreader for large areas. Scoops and shovels almost always cause overuse. Generally, there is a perception that you need to cover the entire surface for Ice Melt to work but, Ice Melt dissolves in liquid and spreads out.

Mistake #3 - Applying It Wrong

Reading directions is important to determine quantity and to ensure you're using the product correctly. Pre-application is ideal as an initial prevention before snow falls. If you're aware a storm is coming, getting the Ice Melt down first can have a huge impact on the ice and snow removal and the application cycle.

Putting deicer on a 10” snow pile doesn’t work. Ice Melt must be applied on the ground for it to be effective. If it can’t be put down prior to the storm, the product should be spread before precipitation freezes, as soon as possible, or immediately after the snow is cleared.

Mistake #4 - Not Cleaning It Up

Residue can damage urethane or wax finishes, can draw out moisture, and cause cracking and splintering of wood floors as well as cause dry rot issues in carpets and rugs. The best way to prevent damage is to prevent Ice Melt from being tracked into the building. Use mats both outside and inside all entrances and clean them with a mop or vacuum throughout the day. Once the product has been tracked in however, it needs to be cleaned up in a timely manner.

Mistake #5 - Waiting Too Late To Order

Weather is unpredictable, so don’t wait until you need product to order it. Frequent storms can cause temporary supply shortages as demand increases. And the conditions that cause you to need Ice Melter can cause delivery issues and delays as roadways become hazardous. The safest option is to have a supply on hand before bad weather
occurs and monitor the supply for replacement as its used.