GRITTING MYTHS

Myth 1: “Salt will melt ice at any temperature.” Not true.  Salt works by lowering the temperature at which water will freeze, and this prevents ice forming on the roads.  The more concentrated the salt, the lower the freezing point, but salt is less effective below minus five degrees Celsius.  At lower temperatures, ice and snow treated with salt melts less quickly.

Myth 2: “Once the salt has been spread on the road the ice will melt immediately.”  False.  The de-icing effect of road gritting relies on the salt being crushed and spread by the passing vehicles’ tyres.  If the traffic is light, then the salted ice on the road will take longer to melt.

Myth 3: “Deep snow on roads will melt quickly with salt spread on it.”  Not true. Salt works best on snow that is less than 4 cm, and the traffic is needed to help distribute the salt

Myth 4: “There’s been a collision, you’ve clearly not gritted”. Our gritters are out whenever conditions require and forecasts are continually being monitored. Regardless of the amount of salt, conditions can still be difficult and driver behaviour has to change to suit. 

Myth 5: “The roads are white, you haven’t gritted” Whilst ice is often white, salt also dries onto the road surface white.

Myth 6: “There’s snow on the road, you’ve not gritted” Salt does not prevent snow from settling on the roads, especially when falling heavily. Salt works to make it clear more quickly up to a certain point, normally 4cm, and does require constant traffic movement.

Myth 7: “Salt’s there to increase traction” This isn’t true, Whilst it does provide some adhesion, It’s there to help minimise the effects of snow and ice.

Regards

UK Gritting Support Team 

Grounds Care Group