When winter approaches, many contractors and homeowners alike ask: Does salting sidewalks before snow really help? The short answer is yes—pre-salting is one of the most effective steps you can take to maintain safety and reduce ice buildup during and after a storm.
Let’s break down why salting in advance is a smart move for both snow removal contractors and property owners.
How Pre-Salting Works
Salting sidewalks before snow acts as a preventive measure. When applied to bare pavement before a storm, salt lowers the freezing point of water, making it harder for snow and ice to bond to the surface.
This means:
- Snow won’t stick as firmly to sidewalks
- Ice won’t form as quickly or as thickly
- Snow removal becomes easier once the storm passes
By the time the snow starts to accumulate, a treated sidewalk is far less likely to freeze solid, making it easier to shovel or plow—and much safer to walk on.
Key Benefits of Pre-Salting Sidewalks
1. Improved Safety
Ice is one of the biggest slip hazards in winter. Pre-salting provides a first layer of defense, helping to reduce slip-and-fall accidents before they happen.
2. Easier Snow Removal
By stopping snow and ice from bonding to the pavement, you’ll spend less time and effort clearing surfaces. Shovels glide more easily, and plows can remove snow cleanly without scraping packed ice.
3. Cost Savings
Though it might seem like you’re using more material by salting early, you’ll likely use less salt overall. Preventing ice is much easier (and cheaper) than melting thick buildup after the fact.
Best Practices for Pre-Salting
- Check the forecast: Apply salt just before the snow starts to fall, especially when temperatures are near freezing.
- Use the right amount: Avoid over-application. A thin, even layer is all you need to be effective.
- Use quality salt: Choose salt or deicer that’s rated for your region’s average winter temps for best results.
- Pair with markers: Use snow stakes to mark walkways, driveways, and other areas where salt is applied. This ensures visibility and safety for plowing crews.
Snow Stakes + Salt = Maximum Efficiency
At Discount Snow Stakes, we know that effective snow removal is all about preparation. Along with your pre-salting strategy, having durable, highly visible snow stakes in place can help you or your crew clear properties faster, avoid lawn and landscape damage, and stay safe in low-visibility conditions.
Need Snow Stakes, Walk Behind Salt Spreaders, or Salt Gloves? We’re Here to Help!
Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a homeowner prepping for winter, we’ve got everything you need—from high-visibility snow stakes to walk behind salt spreaders to cold-weather safety gear.
- Call us at (866) 938-0922
- Email us at [email protected]
- Or visit us at discountsnowstakes.com
Final Thoughts
So—does salting sidewalks before snow help? Absolutely. It’s a simple, smart, and proactive step that helps you stay ahead of the storm and protect your property.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and let Discount Snow Stakes help you tackle winter with confidence.
