Freezing Rain Response

What This Service Involves

Freezing rain is the signature winter hazard of Western Washington, where air just below freezing at the surface flash-freezes falling drizzle onto pavement, rails, and steps. Unlike accumulated snow, this thin clear layer offers almost no visual warning, making early chemical treatment essential to keeping people upright. Our teams pre-treat with liquid deicer whenever the forecast shows a warm layer aloft over freezing ground, then follow with targeted applications as the event unfolds. We focus especially on shaded entries and north-facing walks where the glaze lingers long after the rain has passed.

Benefits

Pre-treatment that stops the glaze from bonding before drizzle even falls; Targeted attention to the clear, hard-to-see layer that causes surprise falls; Extra coverage on shaded and north-facing surfaces that stay frozen longest; Reduced liability from slip-and-fall claims during marginal-temperature events

Our Process

1) Track surface temperatures and dew points as the freezing line approaches; 2) Lay down liquid anti-icing brine on walks and entries before precipitation starts; 3) Reapply deicer as freezing rain continues to coat treated areas; 4) Inspect and re-treat shaded zones after the event clears

What Affects the Cost

Linear feet of walkways and stairs needing consistent coverage; Duration of the freezing rain event and reapplication frequency; Surface temperature swings that affect deicer performance; Choice between liquid brine and granular product; Presence of railings, ramps, and other detail work slowing application

Best Time of Year

Freezing rain events peak from December through early February when shallow cold air pools in the Puget Sound basin beneath warmer Pacific systems.