A GUIDE TO SALT SPREADERS

There’s nothing better than a snowplow for clearing away heavy dumps of snow. However, to get down to bare pavement and prevent future ice buildup, you’ll need a salt spreader.

Why is it important to apply road salt and sand?

Preventing ice buildup on roads is essential for reducing the number of car accidents in winter. The most effective de-icing method is the application of road salt.

Road salt and sand also play an important role in reducing slip-and-fall accidents. Applying gritting materials to sidewalks, driveways and other walkways reduces ice buildup and provides traction.

What’s a salt spreader?

A salt spreader is a device designed to efficiently and evenly spread road salt, sand or other de-icing materials. Applying road salt is the final step in the snow removal process. Road salt not only helps to melt existing snow and ice, it also prevents ice from forming in the future. It works by lowering the freezing point of water, which makes it more difficult for water to freeze

What types of salt spreaders are available?

There are various configurations available for salt spreaders. The most basic type is a walk-behind salt spreader. These are handy for clearing smaller areas such as sidewalks and driveways. There are also models that attach to ATVs and snow blowers.

The most heavy-duty options are truck bed and tailgate spreaders, which mount on the back of pickup trucks. They’re used to apply salt to large areas such as streets and parking lots. They’re often used in conjunction with a truck snowplow.

How do truck bed and tailgate spreaders work?

Both truck bed and tailgate spreaders feature a motorized hopper that overhangs the back of the truck and uniformly spreads salt. Both also have solid top-loading covers that allow for easy filling and prevent moisture from entering the hopper.

The main difference between the two relates to storage capacity. Truck bed spreaders are equipped with a large storage tub that sits in the bed of the truck. They can therefore spread immense quantities of salt without needing to be refilled. Tailgate spreaders offer less storage capacity, as the salt loads directly into the hopper. However, with capacities ranging from 3 to 8.5 cubic feet, they’re an ideal size for many applications. Tailgate spreaders also have the advantage of being low-profile and not obstructing the driver’s rear view.

A wide selection of salt spreaders in the GTA

If you need a quality walk-behind, truck bed or tailgate spreader, Hitch City has you covered. We’re also trusted snow blower and snowplow dealers in Toronto and beyond. Contact us for more information about our snow removal equipment.