The Ultimate Guide to Using a Spreader This Winter
Lawn spreaders are an essential lawn care tool for accurately applying grass seed, lawn fertilizer, and soil amendments throughout every season. While the most popular time to use them is spring and fall, you can also use them to apply ice melter in the winter.
Winter weather brings snow and ice, and keeping driveways and sidewalks clear and safe is imperative for your family’s safety. Jonathan Green lawn spreaders help make the task of applying ice melter, such as Melt-A-Way Ice Melter easier and more efficient.
The following guide will explain how to properly use an ice melt spreader to apply snow melter in the winter.
Why Use a Spreader?
While your first instinct may be to apply ice melter without any tools, using a spreader to apply it ensures an even and accurate application. This is especially important if you’re using it to clear driveways and larger areas.
Using an ice melt spreader also prevents product overuse. You can use your lawn spreader to measure just the right amount of product to apply on your driveways and walkways versus overapplying and using more product than you actually need. This will ultimately save you money and reduce harmful amounts of runoff getting into your local water supply.
Broadcast Spreaders vs. Handheld Spreaders
When it comes to applying ice melter in winter, choosing the right lawn spreader for your area can make all the difference. You may find yourself asking: Which lawn spreader is right for me?
Broadcast spreaders are ideal for covering larger areas. Their wide, dispersal pattern ensures even application, making them perfect for driveways, sidewalks, and expansive walkways.
Handheld spreaders offer more control and precision for smaller areas such as steps or tight corners. Whether you use a Jonathan Green Handheld Spreader for your steps or a Jonathan Green Deluxe Broadcast Spreader for larger surfaces, such as driveways, sidewalks, and walkways, both tools help you apply ice melter evenly and avoid overuse.
How to Apply Ice Melter with a Spreader
Prepare the Spreader
Prior to use, clean your spreader to ensure it’s clear of any previous product and/or debris.
Review Bag Instructions and Calibrate Your Spreader
Carefully read the product label and make sure to follow all instructions and safety precautions, such as wearing proper PPE. Adjust the spreader’s opening to ensure proper distribution.
Fill the Hopper
Pour Melt-A-Way™ Ice Melter into the spreader’s hopper. Avoid overfilling to prevent spills or uneven application.
Apply Evenly
Evenly sprinkle Melt-A-Way™ Ice Melter on desired surfaces at a rate of 6 to 10 lbs per 1,000 square feet. Make sure to walk at a steady pace, starting from one side of the area and moving in straight, overlapping lines to ensure full coverage.
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The Big Takeaway
As you store away your rakes, mowers, and tools for the winter, don’t rush to put away your lawn spreaders! A lawn spreader is an essential tool for winter maintenance, allowing for fast, effective, and even application of ice melter. By selecting the right type of spreader for your needs and following proper application techniques, you can keep surfaces safe while saving time and reducing waste.