The Purpose of Pre and Post Liquid Deicer Applications

The Purpose of Pre and Post Liquid Deicer Applications

As winter approaches, keeping driveways, parking lots, and walkways safe becomes a top priority. Liquid deicer is one of the most effective tools for managing ice — both before and after a storm.

Pre-Application (Before a Storm):Applying liquid deicer before snow or ice hits helps prevent ice from bonding to the pavement. This makes plowing easier and reduces the amount of salt needed later. It acts like a barrier between the surface and the ice, keeping the pavement easier to clear.

Post-Application (After a Storm):Once the snow has been plowed, applying liquid deicer helps melt leftover snow and slush and prevents refreezing overnight. This helps keep surfaces safer and reduces slippery spots that can form as temperatures drop again.

Concrete Safety and Maintenance: Liquid deicer is safe for use on concrete and won’t cause chemical damage like traditional rock salt can. However, because it keeps moisture active longer, it can increase the number of freeze-thaw cycles throughout the season. Over time, these cycles can lead to surface wear if the concrete isn’t protected. That’s why it’s important to seal your concrete — sealing provides a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture from seeping in and minimizes the effects of repeated freezing and thawing.

Using liquid deicer both before and after storms — along with properly sealed concrete — is the best way to keep your property safe, clean, and protected all winter long.