Winter weather can make parking lots slippery and dangerous. Pre-treating your lot before a snow or ice storm is a smart way to keep it safe and easier to clear. This guide will explain why pre-treatment works, the best materials to use, and how to apply them the right way.
Why Pre-Treatment is Important
Applying a de-icer before a storm helps stop ice from sticking to the pavement. This makes snow and ice easier to remove and reduces the risk of accidents. Here are some key benefits:
- Better Safety – Helps prevent slips, falls, and car accidents.
- Easier Snow Removal – Makes it easier to shovel, plow, or blow snow away.
- Saves Money – Reduces the amount of de-icer needed after the storm.
- Protects the Environment – Using the right amount prevents damage to plants and waterways.
For the latest weather updates to time your pre-treatment, check out the National Weather Service or Weather.com.
Best De-Icing Materials for Pre-Treatment
Different de-icers work in different ways. Here are some of the most common options:
1. Magnesium Chloride (MgCl2)
- Pros: Works well in cold weather (-15°F), less harmful to plants and pavement.
- Cons: Costs more than rock salt.
- Best For: Parking lots with lots of foot traffic and landscaping.
- Where to Buy: Check out suppliers like Safe Step for high-quality magnesium chloride products.
2. Calcium Chloride (CaCl2)
- Pros: Works in very low temperatures (-25°F), fast action.
- Cons: Can damage concrete and metal.
- Best For: Extreme cold conditions.
3. Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride – NaCl)
- Pros: Cheap and easy to find.
- Cons: Doesn’t work well below 15°F, can harm plants and pavement.
- Best For: Large lots in mild winter areas.
4. Brine Solutions
- Pros: Sticks to pavement, reduces overall salt use.
- Cons: Can wash away in heavy rain, needs special equipment.
- Best For: Light snow or freezing rain conditions.
- More Information: Learn how brine solutions compare to traditional de-icers at SIMA (Snow & Ice Management Association).
How to Apply De-Icer for Best Results
1. Timing Matters
- Apply 6 to 24 hours before a snow or ice event.
- Don’t apply before heavy rain, or it will wash away.
- Check the weather forecast to pick the right time.
2. Use the Right Equipment
- Truck-Mounted Spreaders – Best for large parking lots.
- Hand Spreaders – Great for sidewalks and small areas.
- Liquid Sprayers – Help apply de-icer evenly.
3. Cover the Right Areas
- Don’t use too much—extra salt won’t help and can harm the environment.
- Focus on busy areas like entrances, sidewalks, and sloped spots.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines to avoid waste.
Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best materials, mistakes can make pre-treatment less effective. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Applying Too Early – The material can blow away if it sits too long.
- Using the Wrong De-Icer – Some work better than others in extreme cold.
- Uneven Application – Skipping spots can leave icy patches.
- Ignoring Drainage Areas – Water can refreeze and create hazards.
Want to know more about the environmental impact of de-icers? Visit the EPA Guidelines on road salt and winter maintenance.
How Birch’s Lawn Care Does It Right
At Birch’s Lawn Care, we specialize in keeping commercial parking lots safe in the Tri-Cities area. We use magnesium chloride pellets because they work well in cold weather and are less harmful to pavement and plants.
Our process includes:
- Watching the weather to apply at the right time.
- Using truck spreaders for big parking lots and hand spreaders for sidewalks.
- Treating high-traffic areas first to keep businesses running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Pre-treating parking lots before winter storms is a smart way to keep people safe, reduce snow removal work, and save money. By choosing the right material and applying it properly, businesses can keep their lots clear and safe all winter.
Watch our video below to see how we pre-treat parking lots the right way!
Need help with snow and ice management? Learn more about our snow and ice management services here. Contact Birch’s Lawn Care today!
