The De-Icing Arsenal
Keeping public walkways clear of ice and snow is a critical concern for businesses, as slippery surfaces can lead to accidents and legal troubles. To combat
this, maintenance professionals employ a variety of de-icing agents, each with its own strengths. Rock salt, a common and cost-effective option, works by lowering the freezing point of water, preventing ice formation. For colder temperatures where rock salt becomes less effective, chemical de-icers like calcium chloride and specialized products such as Purple Heat are utilized. These compounds can effectively melt ice even at significantly lower temperatures, often down to -25°F or below. The key is to select the right de-icer based on the ambient temperature and the expected severity of the winter weather. Understanding the properties of each de-icer allows businesses to make informed decisions to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety for their customers and employees.
Timing is Everything
The most effective de-icing strategy involves proactive application. Professionals recommend applying de-icers before precipitation begins, or immediately after it stops but before ice has a chance to bond with the pavement. This 'pre-treatment' creates a brine layer on the surface, which prevents ice from solidifying into a hard, slippery sheet. When precipitation is intermittent, or if light snow and freezing rain occur, an early application can greatly improve traction and prevent hazardous conditions from developing. This preventative measure is crucial for high-traffic areas where even a brief period of slickness can cause problems. For ongoing storms, continuous or intermittent application of de-icer is advised to maintain this protective layer and prevent ice buildup, ensuring that the surfaces remain navigable throughout the event.
Strategic Reapplication
The lifespan of a de-icer application varies based on weather conditions and traffic. In low-traffic areas with no precipitation, a single application can remain effective for up to 48 hours. However, in bustling locations like malls and grocery stores, de-icers are reapplied much more frequently. This is due to the constant foot traffic, shopping carts, and strollers that can quickly displace the de-icing agent from the pavement. Maintenance crews monitor conditions closely, reapplying de-icer whenever the surface begins to feel slippery or a new layer of ice starts to form. Specific triggers for reapplication include visible refrozen layers, which indicate that the previous application has lost its effectiveness, or after every 2 inches of new snowfall, ensuring that safety is consistently maintained.
Post-Storm Cleanup
Once a winter storm has concluded, the work isn't over for commercial property maintenance teams. After clearing accumulated snow and ice through plowing or shoveling, a final application of de-icer is essential. This step targets any remaining residual ice or hard-packed snow that couldn't be entirely removed by mechanical means. This final treatment not only melts away the stubborn ice but also helps to prevent refreezing, particularly during periods of fluctuating temperatures. By ensuring all surfaces are thoroughly treated, businesses aim to leave their premises in a safe and accessible condition for customers and employees, demonstrating a commitment to their well-being and minimizing the risk of accidents.
