Snow Plowing vs. Salting: Which Service Does Your Lot Really Need?

Winter in London, Ontario can be harsh, and keeping your commercial property safe and accessible is essential for your business’s reputation and the well-being of your staff and visitors. When snow and ice accumulate, ground maintenance becomes a top priority. Two primary services—snow plowing and salting—are crucial in managing winter hazards, but many property owners are unsure about which service is right for their lot. At Wildroses Landscaping, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.

Understanding Snow Plowing: The First Line of Defense

Snow plowing is the process of physically removing snow from parking lots, driveways, and walkways using specialized equipment. Plowing is typically the first step after a significant snowfall, especially when accumulation reaches levels that could block access or pose slip and fall risks.

Benefits of Snow Plowing:

• Rapidly clears large accumulations of snow, ensuring your lot is accessible and safe.
• Essential for complying with local safety regulations regarding snow removal in commercial areas.
• Prevents snow from compacting into ice, which can be more difficult to manage later.
• Creates clear pathways for vehicles and pedestrians, reducing the risk of accidents and keeping your business operational.

When to Use Snow Plowing:

• After any moderate to heavy snowfall (usually 5 cm / 2 inches or more).
• When snow drifts accumulate due to wind, even with lighter precipitation.
• In lots with high traffic, where buildup would impede regular business or threaten customer safety.
• Overnight or early morning, to ensure your property is open for business at the start of the day.

The Role of Salting: Preventing and Managing Ice

Salting, also known as de-icing, involves spreading salt (or other ice-melt products) on surfaces to lower the freezing point of water, thus preventing ice from forming or helping to melt existing ice. Salting is essential for managing slippery surfaces and minimizing the risk of accidents caused by hidden ice patches, also known as “black ice.”

Benefits of Salting:

• Quickly melts thin layers of snow and ice, restoring safe traction for vehicles and pedestrians.
• Prevents dangerous ice patches from forming after plowing or during freeze-thaw cycles.
• Reduces long-term damage to asphalt and concrete caused by repeated ice buildup.
• Helps your business meet legal and insurance requirements for slip and fall prevention.

When to Use Salting:

• After plowing, to remove residual snow and prevent refreezing.
• During light snow events when accumulation is minimal but temperatures fluctuate around freezing.
• Proactively before a forecasted freeze or ice storm, as a preventative safety measure.
• In high-traffic pedestrian areas, building entrances, sidewalks, and parking lot access points.

Snow Plowing or Salting: Which Is Best for Your Lot?

The answer depends on several key factors:

1. Amount of Snowfall:

Heavy snow requires plowing first, while light snow or frost can often be managed with salting alone.

2. Temperature and Weather Forecast:

If rain or wet snow is followed by a rapid temperature drop, salting becomes vital to prevent hazardous refreezing. In persistently cold conditions, plowing plus salting may be necessary to stay ahead of ice buildup.

3. Lot Usage:

Commercial properties with steady traffic, such as retail centers or office complexes, benefit most from a combined approach: immediate plowing after snow followed by salting for safety. Lots with lighter use might only need salting after a light dusting.

4. Surface Type:

Highly-sloped or uneven lots are more prone to ice accumulation and may need more frequent salting. Flat lots typically require routine plowing after snowfalls and targeted salting where water pools or refreezes.

Wildroses Landscaping: Your Winter Ground Maintenance Experts

At Wildroses Landscaping, we understand London’s winter conditions and tailor our snow plowing and salting services to your property’s unique needs. Our experienced team uses modern equipment and eco-friendly salting options to keep your grounds clear, safe, and compliant with local regulations. We offer prompt service day or night so your business remains accessible regardless of the weather.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late—Act Now!

Protect your staff, visitors, and reputation this winter with reliable snow plowing and salting from Wildroses Landscaping. Get in touch today for a customized winter maintenance plan. Call us or visit www.wildroseslandscaping.ca to request a free quote and ensure your commercial property is prepared for whatever winter brings. Stay safe and open for business—choose Wildroses Landscaping for all your ground maintenance needs in London, ON.