Difference between road brine and salt during winter weather | wcnc.com

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — When winter weather hits, it’s important for crews to keep snow and ice off the roads. While there are two ways to do it, there’s a big difference between the two, according to an AccuWeather report. 

Have you ever wondered why road crews sometimes use brine instead of salt?

For years, road crews have used rock salt to melt ice and snow. But, traditional ice only works well when temperatures stay above 15 degrees.

That’s why departments are turning to new methods.

One of the biggest improvements is brine.

It’s a liquid solution applied to roads before a storm. Unlike rock salt, it starts working immediately and is effective at lower temperatures.

Some states even mix in beet juice or other natural additives to improve performance.

So, why do crews put out salt and brine before the snow comes, instead of after? That’s because studies show it takes four times less salt to prevent ice buildup than it would take to remove the snow later.

Pre-wetting roads with brine also helps salt last longer, meaning fewer applications are needed.

With better weather forecasts and proactive strategies, crews are keeping roads safer while saving more money.