Tips for Hiring Winter Maintenance Professionals

Montgomery County encourages all businesses and Homeowner Associations to work with their winter maintenance professionals to use the least amount of de-icing material necessary in order to keep parking lots, roads, sidewalks and driveways safe. Be prepared and have an effective and responsive salt management plan ready for the season.

What to ask potential winter maintenance contractors:

• What winter weather products do they use. Are they environmentally friendly
• Do they know the effects of the products they use. What conditions are best for application.
• If using salt, do they know the recommended salt application rates in the local area (4 lbs/1000 square feet)
• How do they calculate the amount of product needed based on the weather conditions
• If applicable, Is their equipment calibrated and how often is it calibrated and maintained
• Are they familiar with modern technological advancements like brining, new spreading equipment, or alternative products
• Do they monitor weather forecasts and road pavement conditions prior to service
• If using salt, do they track the use of salt per storm
• Request a salt savings report – a summary & comparative report of product use (submitted year to year). The report should
  • List best practices used
  • Describe areas managed (parking lot, sidewalk, streets)
  • Include average application rate reporting lb/1000 sf or lb/ lane mile
  • If excess product is applied, spilled or dumped, do they have an effective and responsive cleanup plan

Encourage your residents to be Salt Wise, download our residential tip card. Share in community newsletters, social media and notifications.