Pre-Salting & Post-Salting in Snow Removal: What’s the Difference?

Even as winter comes to an end, the likelihood of snow and ice on roads, sidewalks, and other surfaces hasn’t decreased, especially in regions like the Midwest, and snow and ice management is still of utmost important.

One of the key factors in snow and ice management is the proper use of salt. There are two main methods that determine the effectiveness of salt in snow and ice removal - presalting and postsalting. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of presalting and postsalting in snow and ice removal, their differences, and how to effectively apply the right salt products before and after a winter storm.

Why Are Pre-salting and Post-salting Important for an Effective Snow and Ice Management?

Presalting and postsalting are essential in snow and ice removal for several reasons. When salt is applied to the surface before a snowstorm, it forms a layer between the surface and the snow, making it easier to remove the snow later. This layer of salt lowers the freezing point of water, causing the snow to melt faster, which results in less accumulation of snow on the surface.

Similarly, postsalting is crucial to maintaining the safety of the surface after the snow has been removed. When salt is applied to the surface after a snowfall, it helps to melt any remaining ice or snow, preventing it from refreezing and forming black ice. Postsalting also improves traction on the surface, reducing the risk of accidents and falls. Without postsalting, you open yourself up to many negative consequences.

What Is the Difference Between Presalting and Postsalting?

Presalting and postsalting are two different methods that serve different purposes in snow and ice management. Presalting is done before the snowfall to prepare the surface for the snow, while postsalting is done after the snow has been removed to maintain the safety of the surface. One without the other leaves your business in a precarious condition— so make sure to do both!

What Is Pre Salting?

Presalting is the process of applying salt to the surface before a snowstorm to prepare the surface for the snow. Presalting is an effective way to reduce the amount of snow that accumulates on the surface and to make snow removal easier. Presalting also helps to prevent ice formation, making it easier to maintain the safety of the surface.

When to Apply Salt Before a Snowstorm

The best time to apply salt before a snowstorm is when the temperature is above freezing. That’s not always easy to do in colder areas like the Midwest— so keep a careful eye on the weather. When the temperature is above freezing, the salt will dissolve and form a layer between the surface and the snow, making it easier to remove the snow later. It is also important to apply salt before the snowfall starts to ensure that the salt has enough time to dissolve and form a layer before the snow starts accumulating.

How to Apply Salt for Pre Salting?

At Ninja De-Icer, we are big proponents of picking the right de-icer for your specific needs, rather than relying on a catch-all solution. To effectively presalt the surface before a snowstorm, follow these steps:

1. Calculate the amount of salt required based on the surface area and weather conditions.
2. Spread the salt evenly over the surface, making sure to cover all areas.
3. Use a spreader to ensure even distribution of salt.
4. Avoid over-applying salt as it can harm the environment and damage the surface.

Types of Salt Products that Can be used for Presalting

There are different types of salt products available for presalting, including:

1. Sodium Chloride: Sodium chloride is the most commonly used salt product for presalting. It is inexpensive and readily available. Sodium chloride works best when the temperature is above 15°F (-9°C).
2. Magnesium Chloride: Magnesium chloride is a less corrosive salt product that is effective in lower temperatures, down to -13°F (-25°C).
3. Calcium Chloride: Calcium chloride is another effective salt product that works well in very low temperatures, down to -25°F (-32°C). However, it is more expensive than sodium chloride and can damage vegetation.
4. Potassium Chloride: Potassium chloride is an environmentally friendly salt product that is safe for plants and animals. However, it is not as effective as other salt products and is more expensive.

Tips and Best Practices for Effective Presalting

To ensure effective presalting, follow these tips:

1. Check the weather forecast before applying salt to ensure that the temperature is above freezing and a snowstorm is incoming.
2. Apply salt over the surface, using a spreader to ensure even distribution.
3. Avoid over-applying salt as it can harm the environment and damage the surface.
4. Apply salt at least one hour before the snowfall starts to allow enough time for the salt to dissolve and form a layer.
5. Avoid presalting during heavy rainfall as it can wash away the salt, reducing its effectiveness and wasting your time and money.

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What Is Postsalting?

Postsalting is the process of applying salt to the surface after the snow has been removed to maintain the safety of the surface. Postsalting helps to melt any remaining ice or snow, preventing it from refreezing and forming black ice. Postsalting also improves traction on the surface, reducing the risk of accidents and falls.

What’s the Best Time for Postsalting?

The best time for postsalting is after the snow has been removed, either by plowing or shoveling. It is important to apply salt immediately after removing the snow to prevent the formation of black ice.

Postsalting: How to Apply Salt After Snowfall?

To effectively postsalt the surface after a snowfall, follow these steps:

1. Calculate the amount of salt required based on the surface area and weather conditions.
2. Spread the salt evenly over the surface, making sure to cover all areas.
3. Use a spreader to ensure an even distribution of salt.
4. Avoid over-applying salt as it can harm the environment and damage the surface.

Types of Salt Products Used for Postsalting

Again, make sure to pick your de-icer carefully, as every area and business has its own needs. There are different types of salt products available for postsalting, including:

1. Sodium Chloride: Sodium chloride is the most commonly used salt product for postsalting. It is inexpensive and readily available. Sodium chloride works best when the temperature is above 15°F (-9°C).
2. Magnesium Chloride: Magnesium chloride is a less corrosive salt product that is effective in lower temperatures, down to -13°F (-25°C).
3. Calcium Chloride: Calcium chloride is another effective salt product that works well in very low temperatures, down to -25°F (-32°C). However, it is more expensive than sodium chloride and can damage vegetation.
4. Potassium Chloride: Potassium chloride is an environmentally friendly salt product that is safe for plants and animals. However, it is not as effective as other salt products and is more expensive.

Tips and Best Practices for Effective Postsalting

To ensure effective postsalting, follow these tips:

1. Apply salt immediately after removing the snow to prevent the formation of black ice.
2. Apply salt over the surface, using a spreader to ensure even distribution.
3. Avoid over-applying salt as it can harm the environment and damage the surface.
4. Use caution when applying salt near plants and vegetation as some salt products can damage them.
5. Store salt in a dry place to prevent it from clumping or becoming less effective.

Final Thoughts: Presalting and Postsalting for a Safe Winter

To effectively presalt and postsalt, it is important to choose the right salt product for the weather conditions, apply the salt evenly over the surface, and avoid over-applying salt. It is also important to take caution when applying salt near plants and vegetation as some salt products can be damaging. At Ninja De-Icer you can find the right salt products for your needs, and we’ll help you. Get a quote and start planning for snow and ice removal today!