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Except in very light snow, ice melting materials should never be used in place of snow
plowing. However, in combination with trained personnel and equipment, ice melting
materials play an important part in controlling ice and snow. Whenever possible,
apply ice melting materials before a snowfall. You’ll use less, and it will be more
effective in preventing snow and ice from adhearing to the pavement surface and
less damaging for the environment. You may have to increase the use of ice melting
materials at night and as temperatures fall.
Minerals and Chemicals for Snow and Ice
Experts agree a mixture of two parts
mixed ice melting materials (1:3
calcium chloride to salt, by weight)
mixed with one part abrasive (cinder,
sand or slag) is more effective than
rock salt alone in melting snow and ice
below 30°F. One hundred fifty pounds
of such mixture with abrasives will treat
a 50,000 sq.ft. surface.
It is imperative to treat priority areas
such as hills, heavy traffic areas,
bridges and intersections first,
especially where snow may compact
and adhere to the road surface,
causing icy road conditions. When
slush begins to stiffen and refreeze, it
will be necessary to plow again and
reapply ice melting materials.
THE MEYER INSERT HOPPER SPREADER