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If you're tired of slick driveways, slippery steps, and wasting salt after the fact, here's the secret: treated salt works better when you use it before the snow hits. That early application—called pre-treating—creates a thin brine barrier that stops ice from bonding and makes everything easier to clear. It’s one of the reasons we recommend magnesium chloride-treated salt for driveways across Durham Region.
What is treated salt, and why is it better?
What is treated salt, and why is it better?
Treated salt is regular rock salt that’s been coated with a liquid magnesium chloride solution. That liquid brine helps each crystal dissolve faster, cling better, and activate sooner—even in colder or drier conditions. It doesn’t just bounce off your driveway or blow away in the wind. It sticks where you put it and gets to work faster.
The result? Less ice, fewer re-applications, and a safer surface sooner.
Why we recommend it for Durham Region driveways
Why we recommend it for Durham Region driveways
Cold mornings, sloped entries, shaded walkways, and interlock surfaces all benefit from faster melt. When you apply treated salt before a storm, it starts breaking the bond between moisture and the surface right away. It’s especially helpful during:
Overnight freezing rain or drizzle
Light snowfalls that would otherwise glaze over
Events where you might not plow but still want traction
Our crews trust it for contract snow routes and we recommend it for homeowners who want to stay ahead of winter.
When and how to apply
When and how to apply
You don’t need to dump a full bucket—just a light, even spread a few hours before the storm starts. The treated salt will activate as soon as moisture hits it, forming a brine barrier. After the first plow or shovel pass, you can spot-treat slick areas instead of reapplying everywhere.
If you’re applying it yourself, store the bucket somewhere dry and reseal it after use. If we’re delivering it, we’ll drop it curbside or at your designated spot—just like we do for all driveway salt deliveries.
Driveway material notes
Driveway material notes
Asphalt: The most forgiving—treated salt works well and leaves little residue.
Concrete: Avoid heavy piles in one spot. Sweep away leftovers after storms to reduce long-term exposure.
Interlock and stone: Treated salt helps melt between pavers and reduces scatter across joints.
If you’re unsure, just ask—we’ll match the right product to your surface.
Where we serve
Where we serve
Salt delivery: Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Courtice, Bowmanville, Newcastle, and Port Perry.
Snow removal routes: Oshawa and Courtice.
Select work in nearby Kawartha Region for suitable projects or bulk orders.
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