Why do I need a Sand Spreader? [2022 Guide]

Sand spreaders are equipment designed to assist in snow removal. Snow removal tools are an annual necessity for businesses, homeowners and farmers across America. But, do you know why you need a sand spreader vs. typical snow removal tools this Winter? Messer Repair is here to walk you through the benefits of a sand spreader with this helpful guide.

What is a sand spreader used for?

A sand spreader can spread anything from sand, salt, grass, seed, fertilizer and lime. However, the sand spreader really provides return on investment during the cold winter months. Whether you’re working on a farm, construction site or large tract of land…you need to plan your winter response.

By using a sand spreader, you are actively making a plan to keep your property safe and stay operating during the winter months. It’s just that after you deploy the sand spreader, you have to think about what you’re doing beyond that.

Does sand actually melt ice and snow?

Sand doesn’t melt ice and snow. The real question is why is sand better than your standard salt application? Modern rock salt is gritty and a mix of salt and sand elements. Salt to melt, while sand prevents further accumulation.

How do I keep my driveway from freezing?

A frozen driveway ruins many mornings. Honestly, it can ruin many afternoons and evenings too. This is where the argument about laying down sand before an ice wintry mix hits your area comes into play. A little sand in your driveway before a freeze shouldn’t hurt anything.

The catch is that sand is only effective on the surface of ice. In the past, people would use things like kitty litter and masonry sand to get leverage when backing out or pulling into slick surfaces. But, for you to actually melt ice and snow…you need to spread salt.

Why is sand spread on roads?

Sand is being spread on more roadways as a modern attempt to solve snow removal problems. The rock salt that you most commonly see being deployed is a mixture of salt and sand. However, the sand used to help give vehicles tractions tends to be more of the sandbox variety.

Can you put salt in a sand spreader?

Sand spreaders are capable of spreading many things. Just as you can put sand in a fertilizer spreader, you can put salt into a sand spreader. The overall mechanics are the same. Plus, there’s less worry for cross containments.

If you are worried about mixing spreads, then don’t. However, most end users will have no trouble putting salt in a sand spreader.

How do you spread sand on a driveway?

Spreading sand on a driveway involves a degree of planning, but anyone can do it. While a sand spreader makes the work easier, you have to make sure what kind of sand you’re spreading. Don’t use masonry sand, as it spreads way too fine.

What is called sandbox quality sand tends to be thicker and a little more coarse. The sand applied via a sand spreader needs to be thick enough to break up accumulation and give tires something to grip.

What is the best sand for block paving?

The best sand for standard block paving is kiln dried sand. Sharp sands tend to work better than building sands because it’s less likely to wash off. When it comes to using a sand spreader, you’ll have different concerns.

However, when it comes to protecting block paving during snow removal…there is a tip to heed. Salt can’t irritate certain kinds of paving when applied directly, so use a sand spreader to provide a degree of protection.

Should I put sand down before it snows?

Putting sand down before it snows is met with mixed opinions. The easy answer is that if you need help overcoming icy spots that constantly form in key areas, then do it. If the goal is to remove snow and ice without any pavement concerns, then deploy salt.

Is sand good for melting ice?

Sand is pretty good at supporting the melting of ice. But, what makes it so effective? Using sand by itself doesn’t effect the temperature of ice. What sand does is prevent or remove ice build-up. Ice build-up are those chunky natural formations of ice that develop in the winter in shady areas or roadways not exposed to direct sunlight.

Sand promotes improved traction for vehicles that have to travel in icy areas. However, if you’re just looking to melt ice and snow, you’re going to want to include salt while you spread. That’s not to promote the use of one item over the other, but highlighting how they both work together.

What states use sand instead of salt for melting snow?

Several states use sand along salt to help in snow removal. In fact, Home Depot among other places have salt – sand gritty mixtures for ages to smaller home owners. But, if you’re a commercial worker or farmer, you’re going to need a supplier that can mix what you need.

While that is easier to find in rural areas, there are many vendors online willing and ready to help you throughout the country.

What can a sand spreader do for you over time?

A sand spreader is a magnificent piece of equipment that will provide ROI every year. How much time are you willing to lose because you can’t move equipment around your farm or work site? What about the increased risk of injury due to icy roadways and walking paths? Plus, it’s not just snow plows and trucks that can get in on the side work of clearing businesses and churches.

There is a world of side walks, public walkways and outside gathering spots that need to be primed to defeat icy dangers. A sand spreader opens up a world of possibilities to everyone that owns it.