Sand and Salt Bin: How to Prepare for Winter in Advance

Every year winter catches us by surprise: the first black ice turns pavements and car parks into a skating rink. On days like that, what matters most is that the gritting mix is right at hand, not in a warehouse on the other side of town. That's why it's worth setting up a sand and salt bin in the autumn.

Where is a grit bin needed?

• by the front doors and steps of apartment buildings;
• in car parks and driveways;
• at the entrances of schools, kindergartens and other institutions;
• on company premises, by warehouses and loading ramps;
• at bus stops, on footpaths and on stairs.

The best place is where it gets most slippery and where gritting will be needed most often: by steps, slopes and entrances. Then the mix doesn't have to be carried far.

Sand, salt or a mix?

Sand doesn't melt ice, but it immediately improves grip and isn't harmful to plants or paving. Salt melts ice and compacted snow, but too much of it damages plants, footwear, cars and concrete surfaces. That's why a sand and salt mix is most often used – it both melts ice and reduces slipperiness.

Whichever material you choose, it must be dry. Wet sand or salt freezes into a single lump in the cold, and then spreading it becomes impossible.

Why do you need a closed bin?

An open bag or bucket outdoors quickly absorbs moisture, and in spring it's left as a muddy heap. A closed container with a tight lid protects the mix from rain and snow, so it stays free-flowing all winter. Durable plastic is unaffected by frost, UV rays and moisture, and a bin without a lock is always accessible to anyone who needs to grit a path.

What capacity is enough?

For most apartment buildings, schools and small companies, a 150 l sand and salt bin is enough. It holds enough mix that you won't have to refill it after every icy spell. On larger premises, for example at shopping centres or large car parks, it's worth placing several bins in different locations.

Quick winter preparation checklist

• put the grit bin in place before the first frosts;
• fill it with a dry sand and salt mix;
• keep a shovel or scoop next to the bin;
• agree who grits and when;
• in spring, leave the remaining mix in the bin for the next season.

You'll find all containers in the Containers for sand and salt mix category. If you're unsure what size or how many bins your premises need, get in touch with us – we'll advise you.