Salt & Sand Mix Advantages & Applications

The winter months in the greater NYC area oftentimes brings snow, sleet and general bad weather. With freezing temperatures and precipitation there is always the threat of ice. So it is important to be prepared and have the right tools at your disposal when these storms hit. Salt and sand mix is a great material to use to limit the dangers of icy surfaces. At Atlas Roll-Off, we supply and deliver salt and sand mix to help you combat the weather. Get in touch with us today to get a quote regarding this mix.

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When you reach out to us, we can provide you with more information regarding this mix as well as discuss any of the other crushed stone materials we offer.

Advantages

Here are 3 key advantages of using salt and sand mix to combat winter storms.

1) De-icing Capabilities

Bulk salt, which is the chemical hero of the mix, works by lowering the freezing point of water. This process is known as freeze-point depression. What this means is that the ice can be prevented or melted at lower temperatures. All in all, this mix is a valuable tool for maintaining safe, navigable roads and walkways during treacherously icy conditions. The ability salt has to interrupt the ice formation process is crucial in managing the dangers of winter and keeping everyone safe.

2) Traction Improvement

Safety is paramount when it comes to dealing with dangerous, icy weather. Thus, the role of sand is indispensable in these situations since it provides immediate traction on icy surfaces. Getting traction is crucial for areas with heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic as it will limit the number of accidents due to the ice. This immediate effect is a significant advantage of using the salt and sand mix. This holds especially true in emergency situations or high-traffic areas where waiting for salt to melt the ice is not feasible.

3) Affordable

In the world of de-icing, cost efficiency is as important as its overall effectiveness. Salt and sand mixes stand out in this regard, as they are an affordable material to purchase. Both of the components are both readily available and fairly inexpensive. Especially when purchased in bulk. This makes this mixture an ideal choice for large-scale operations typical in snow management as it offers a balance between cost and performance that few other de-icing methods can match.

Best Practices for Salt & Sand Mix Application

Timing and Conditions

Timing is everything when it comes to utilizing a salt and sand mix for a winter storm. Applying the mix before a snow event can prevent the formation of ice. Early application during a storm can reduce accumulation and improve overall safety. However, temperature and weather conditions must be considered. Extremely low temperatures can affect the efficacy of the salt.

Quantity and Distribution

Effective distribution is key when laying down a salt and sand mix. A uniform spread of the mix ensures the entire area is covered, which maximizes the safety of the area while simultaneously minimizing waste. However, you must be aware of the quantity of the mix you are using. Overuse can lead to environmental issues, such as salt runoff, which may impact local waterways.

Storage and Handling

Proper storage of the sand and salt mix is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness throughout the year. The mixture should be kept in a dry, accessible location to prevent clumping and ensure it is ready for immediate use when a winter storm is imminent. Safe handling practices should also be observed to preserve the product’s durability and longevity, while also guaranteeing the safety of individuals applying it.