Ice Management and De-Icing
Ice melt is significantly more effective when applied before ice forms than after. Understanding the timing of application is the difference between a clear, safe surface and an icy hazard that resists even heavy salting.
Pre-treatment (before freezing rain or temperature drops): apply ice melt when pavement temperatures are about to drop below 0°C. The product prevents bonding between ice and pavement, making any ice that forms easy to remove or self-limiting.
Best Practices for Ontario Winters
During active snowfall: apply ice melt as snow accumulates, particularly on high-traffic areas like steps, entrances, and walkways. This prevents compaction — foottraffic compacts fresh snow into ice much faster on untreated surfaces.
Post-storm application: if ice has already formed, heavier application and mechanical agitation (scraping) are needed. Break up the ice surface with a shovel edge before applying melt product — this creates entry points for the melt to work from.
Professional Snow and Ice Control
Temperature thresholds: check the product label for minimum effective temperature. Standard rock salt stops working effectively below -9°C. In colder conditions, use calcium chloride or a blend rated for lower temperatures.
Application rate: more is not better. Excess ice melt doesn't melt ice faster — it just increases cost, damages surfaces faster, and increases runoff impact. Follow manufacturer guidelines, typically 30-60g per square metre.
D&D Snow Services monitors weather forecasts and applies ice management products proactively, treating surfaces before anticipated freeze events rather than responding after slippery conditions develop.