Salt Spreaders FAQ
What types of salt spreaders are available?
Common types include handheld, push (walk-behind), and tow-behind or vehicle-mounted spreaders, scaled to the area treated. Handheld units suit walkways and steps, push spreaders cover lots and paths, and tow-behind or mounted units treat large areas and roads. Match the spreader to the surfaces you treat, since walkway de-icing and lot de-icing call for different equipment.
What is the difference between a salt spreader and a fertilizer spreader?
Mechanically similar, but salt spreaders need corrosion resistance, since salt and ice melt aggressively attack metal. A spreader used for ice melt should be rinsed and dried after each use or be made of corrosion-resistant materials. Using a fertilizer spreader for salt without cleaning destroys it quickly, so dedicated or corrosion-resistant units are the practical choice for de-icing.
How do I calibrate a salt spreader for even application?
Adjust the gate or spread setting to apply ice melt evenly at an appropriate rate, since over-application wastes expensive product and can damage surfaces and plants, while under-application leaves ice. Test the spread pattern and rate, and adjust for the specific product, since granule size affects flow. Even, appropriate application is both economical and effective.
How do I prevent salt spreaders from corroding?
Rinse the spreader thoroughly with clean water and dry it after every use, since salt and ice melt residue corrode metal components and seize moving parts over a season. Corrosion-resistant spreaders tolerate this better but still benefit from rinsing. The single biggest factor in spreader longevity for de-icing is cleaning off the corrosive residue after each use.
What ice melt products work in a salt spreader?
Most free-flowing granular ice melt products spread through appropriate spreaders, though damp or clumping product bridges and jams the hopper. Keep ice melt dry before spreading. Match the spreader setting to the product's granule size for even application. Using dry, free-flowing product and the right setting is what keeps the spreader applying evenly without clogging.
Can salt spreaders be ordered for winter operations?
Yes. Salt spreaders are stocked in handheld, push, and tow-behind styles with volume pricing by quote. Operations handling winter de-icing benefit from matching spreader types to the surfaces they treat, choosing corrosion-resistant units, and ordering ahead of the season so they are equipped when the first freeze arrives.
