When implementing a deicing and anti-icing program, there are many factors to consider. What product is best for various road and weather conditions? How much product should be used? What method should be used to apply the product?
When you are planning product application and applying product, it is important to keep a few things in mind. Check out a few tips on the best practices and considerations when it comes to deicing and anti-icing:
Planning Product Application
- Consider Current Conditions
- It is essential that the pavement is clear of snow or loose ice before applying chemicals in order to reduce resulting product dilution.
- The road surface can refreeze if precipitation or moisture on the pavement dilutes the chemical, or if pavement temperatures drop below the effective temperature of the anti-icing chemicals.
- Identify Critical Areas
- Schedule anti-icing applications on bridge decks and other critical areas beforehand if temperature and conditions could produce frost or black ice.
- Consider spot-applications on hills, curves, intersections, and turn lanes if predicted conditions warrant.
- Consider the Product
- Make sure to utilize the appropriate application rate based on the chemical you are using and the current and projected pavement temperature.
- Liquid anti-icing chemicals are not recommended in use with freezing rain, instead use a granular product.
- Weather Factors
- Do not apply chemicals before predicted rain.
- Pavement temperature, rather than ambient temperature, drives the application rate. However, is it important to pay attention to air temperatures because they can indicate pavement temperature trends. Utilize accurate pavement temperature and other road weather information to decide when to begin applying chemicals.
- Do not apply anti-icing chemicals under blowing snow conditions and in areas prone to drifting. Be aware of areas that are prone to wind issues.
Tips for When Applying
- First Application / Dry Spells
- Apply liquids at approximately half the normal rate (not half the concentration) on dry roads because liquids tend to mix with petroleum products from vehicles and can potentially cause slippery conditions.
- Method of Application
- When applying product with only streamer or pencil nozzles, maintain some bare pavement between sprayed lines to reduce slipperiness. Fan spray is not recommended.
- Do not shoot and run!
- The application of anti-icing chemicals requires constant monitoring of precipitation rate, temperature, traffic, and dilution of the product.
- If the storm is severe, consider using only mechanical snow removal until the severity lessens, and then resume liquid treatments.
- Less is more
- Only apply the minimum amount of chemical needed to meet the defined level of service. Do not apply too much chemical or the roadway may become slippery. Less is better.
Remember, it is always important to follow your agency's application recommendations.
Anti-icing is the snow and ice control practice of preventing the formation or development of bonded snow and ice by timely applications of a chemical freezing-point depressant. Anti-icing chemicals, if used as part of a proactive operations plan, can substantially reduce materials usage, wear and tear on maintenance equipment, and personnel time.
To learn about a high performing and environmentally friendly deicer, Ice Slicer®, visit our partner, Redmond Minerals, Inc.
For application rates and assistance with calculating pavement temperature trends, visit our website or contact one of our experienced representatives at 800-369-3878.
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