Add Traction When Ice Won't Melt

Sanding services in Castleton, Vermont for icy driveways, roadways, and high-traffic areas.

When temperatures in Castleton drop below fifteen degrees, salt stops working and ice stays frozen no matter how much you apply. Sanding solves that problem by spreading coarse sand over icy surfaces to create friction, which helps tires grip and prevents pedestrians from slipping on areas that would otherwise be glass-smooth.

John Trombley Construction provides sanding for steep driveways, rural roadways, and high-traffic zones where ice persists through extreme cold or where packed snow has turned into a hard, slick layer. The service is often combined with plowing and snow removal, and it works in conditions where chemical de-icers are ineffective or impractical.

If your property in Castleton has ice that won't melt or steep areas that need better traction, get in touch to discuss sanding options.

How Sanding Improves Traction Without Melting

Sanding in Castleton involves spreading coarse sand or sand-salt mixtures across icy pavement using a truck-mounted spreader, with heavier application on slopes, curves, and intersections where loss of traction causes the most problems. The sand embeds slightly into the ice and provides a gritty surface that tires and shoes can grip.

Once sanding is complete, you'll notice that tires stop spinning on inclines and footsteps feel steadier on walkways and driveways. The sand doesn't melt the ice, but it prevents vehicles from sliding backward and reduces the chance of falls on foot traffic routes.

Sanding works best on packed snow or ice that has formed a hard surface, and it's commonly used on rural roads, municipal streets, and residential properties with limited sun exposure or steep grades. The sand remains effective until it gets plowed away or buried by new snow.

Homeowners and site managers in Castleton often ask when sanding is the right choice, how it compares to salting, and what happens to the sand after temperatures rise.

What Property Owners Need to Know

When should you use sand instead of salt?
Use sand when temperatures fall below fifteen degrees and salt stops melting ice, or on surfaces where you need immediate traction without waiting for chemicals to work. Sand is also better for areas where runoff could harm plants or water sources.
How does sanding help on steep driveways?
Sand creates friction on icy slopes so tires can grip rather than spin or slide backward. This is especially helpful on properties where vehicles need to climb or descend hills during freezing conditions.
What type of sand is used for winter traction?
Coarse sand or sand mixed with a small amount of salt is typically used. The sand needs to be heavy enough to stay in place and rough enough to provide grip without washing away or clumping.
Why is sanding common in rural or municipal applications?
Rural roads and municipal streets often cover large areas where salting would be expensive or ineffective in extreme cold. Sanding provides a cost-effective way to reduce accidents and keep traffic moving safely.
What happens to the sand after winter ends?
Sand is typically swept or washed away during spring cleanup, or it naturally disperses as snow melts and rain washes it off paved surfaces. Some sand may remain along edges and need to be removed manually.

If your property in Castleton has ice that won't respond to salt or steep areas where traction is a constant problem during cold snaps, John Trombley Construction can apply sand to keep driveways, roads, and walkways safer throughout the winter. Contact us to arrange sanding as part of your snow service plan.