Sand Application

What This Service Involves

When an Arctic outflow event drops Western Washington temperatures into the teens, salt-based deicers slow down and traction becomes the priority. Sand provides immediate grip on icy lots, ramps, and hills regardless of how cold it gets. We spread it strategically on the slopes, curves, and pedestrian routes where footing matters most, often layering it over a deicer for both melt and traction. Because sand does not corrode concrete or harm plants, it is ideal near sensitive landscaping and salmon-bearing waterways. After the thaw we sweep it up to keep drains and surfaces clean.

Benefits

Provides traction even in the teens when deicers stall; Safe for concrete, landscaping, and nearby waterways; Ideal for slopes, ramps, and high-traffic footpaths; Pairs with deicer for both grip and melt

Our Process

1) Identify slopes, curves, and pedestrian routes needing grip; 2) Apply sand evenly for immediate traction; 3) Layer over deicer during deep-freeze events when needed; 4) Sweep and collect sand once temperatures rebound

What Affects the Cost

Surface area and slope requiring traction; Severity and duration of the cold event; Whether sand is layered with deicer; Post-thaw sweeping and disposal needs; Sensitivity of adjacent landscaping and drains

Best Time of Year

Sand application peaks during December and January Arctic outflow events when Puget Sound temperatures drop into the teens and deicers lose effectiveness.