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Salting the Roads: The Pros and Cons of Winter Road Treatments
15 Nov
Summary
- Salt is the most common and least expensive ice control chemical
- Abrasives like sand have higher application rates and costs than salt
- Some areas have been using only salt for over 15 years to save on cleanup costs
As the 2025-2026 winter season approaches, highway departments across the country are once again grappling with the age-old question: should they use salt or sand to treat roads covered in snow and ice?
According to the article, salt (sodium chloride or rock salt) remains the most common and least expensive ice control chemical. However, its effectiveness is highly dependent on temperature, with pre-treated or pre-wet salt performing better at lower pavement temperatures. Abrasives like sand, on the other hand, provide immediate but temporary improvement in traction, requiring more frequent reapplication.
While the initial cost of abrasives is low, the overall expenses can quickly add up when factoring in increased application rates, salt mixed into the stockpile, and the considerable costs of spring cleanup. Some areas, such as the villages of Dexter and Brownville near Watertown and the City of Watertown, have been using only salt for over 15 years to save money on cleanup.
Ultimately, no matter which method is used, there will be some impact on the environment. Highway departments must carefully weigh the pros and cons of each approach to ensure the safest possible winter driving conditions for their communities.
