Proliferation

Jan 24
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Ice Melt Salt Bulk Road Salt and Landscaping Sand in Tailgate Spreaders

Tips for Using Tailgate Spreaders with Ice Melt Salt and Bulk Road Salt Products

By | bulk road salt, ice melt salt, landscaping sand, Uncategorized | No Comments

Laura Rose is a writer for Akomplice, a Marketing Company and Marketing Technology Agency located in Salt Lake City, Utah.

When winter storms hit, keeping roads, driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots clear of snow and ice is very important for safety and travel. Operating in Utah for more than 40 years, Kilgore Landscape Center has products like ice melt salt and bulk road salt that can be used in tailgate spreaders to distribute products quickly and evenly. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, business owner, DIY kind of person, or municipal worker in Salt Lake City, knowing how to use tailgate spreaders efficiently can save time, effort, and resources during icy conditions.

1. Choose the Right Tailgate Spreader

Choosing the correct spreader is critical for efficiency and even salt distribution.

  • Type of Tailgate Spreader: Tailgate spreaders come in manual, gravity-fed, and electric or hydraulic models. Small properties can manage with manual or gravity-fed spreaders, while larger areas benefit from electric or hydraulic options.
  • Material and Durability: Salt is corrosive, so choose corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or polyethylene hoppers for longevity.
  • Capacity: Larger spreaders reduce refill times, ideal for parking lots or roads. Smaller spreaders suit residential driveways and sidewalks.
  • Vehicle Compatibility: Make sure your vehicle, ATV, or tractor works with the spreader type you choose.

2. Use the Right Salt Product for the Job

Not all salt works the same in winter conditions. Selecting the proper product improves performance and cost-effectiveness. “Tailgate salt spreaders can handle any type of material, including bulk salt, sand, and salt/sand mix,” according to the Kentucky Transportation Center. 

  • Bulk Road Salt: Affordable and effective at temperatures above 15°F, traditional road salt is ideal for large areas like roads and parking lots.
  • Ice Melt Salt: Products such as calcium chloride or magnesium chloride work in extreme cold (down to -20°F) and melt ice faster.
  • Eco-Friendly Options: Use pet-safe and plant-safe ice melt salt products if you need to protect landscaping or minimize environmental impact.
  • Salt Particle Size: Choose salt with a uniform size that won’t clog your spreader or spread unevenly.

Find bulk road salt, eco-friendly options, and ice melt salt at Kilgore’s Salt Lake Landscape Center.

3. Prepare the Spreader Before Use

Proper preparation ensures your spreader operates smoothly:

  • Inspect and Clean: Check for damage, rust, or mechanical issues before use.
  • Lubricate Moving Parts: Protect components like augers and chains from salt corrosion by applying lubrication.
  • Adjust Settings: Calibrate the flow rate and spread pattern to ensure even application.
  • Load Carefully: Avoid overloading the hopper, and break up clumped salt to prevent blockages.

4. Application Techniques for Even Distribution

Proper application reduces waste and increases effectiveness:

  • Drive at the Right Speed: Vehicle speed affects spread rate and coverage. Consult your manual for best results.
  • Overlap Passes: Slightly overlap each pass to eliminate untreated gaps.
  • Adjust Spread Width: For narrow areas like sidewalks, reduce the spread width to avoid wasting salt.
  • Avoid Over-Application: Use only as much salt as needed to melt ice without harming surfaces or vegetation.
  • Timing Matters: Apply salt before ice forms or after plowing to target remaining patches.

5. Using Landscaping Sand for Traction

Landscaping sand is a practical option when traction is a higher priority than melting ice.

  • Why Use Sand?: Sand doesn’t melt ice but improves grip on icy surfaces. It’s useful for steep driveways, walkways, and areas needing immediate traction with products like bulk road salt and ice melt salt.
  • Keep Sand Dry: Moisture causes clumping, so store sand in a dry place and keep the hopper covered.
  • Sand and Salt Mix: Combine landscaping sand with salt for dual benefits—the salt melts ice while sand provides traction.
  • Environmental Benefits: Sand is non-corrosive and won’t harm plants, concrete, or soil, making it an eco-friendly alternative.

6. Safety Tips for Salt and Sand Application

Safety should always be a priority:

  • Wear gloves, goggles, and warm clothing for protection.
  • Use backup cameras or spotters when visibility is obstructed by the spreader.
  • Ensure vehicle lights and signals remain visible.
  • Drive and walk cautiously on slippery surfaces to avoid accidents.

Final Thoughts

Tailgate spreaders make winter ice control efficient and effective. By selecting the right spreader, preparing it properly, and mastering application techniques, you can keep surfaces safe throughout the winter. Whether you’re managing a residential driveway or a large commercial space, Kilgore’s Salt Lake Landscape Center has the ice melt salt, bulk road salt, and landscaping sand you need to get the job done.

Visit us at 7961 S 1300 W, West Jordan, UT 84088, or call (801) 561-4231 for expert advice and high-quality winter products.

Jan 17
0
decorative landscaping rock in utah winter

How Decorative Rock, Sand, and Bulk Road Salt Help Prepare Your Outdoor Space

By | bulk road salt, decorative landscaping rock, landscaping sand, salt lake landscape center | No Comments

Laura Rose is a writer for Akomplice, a Marketing Company and Marketing Technology Agency located in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Winter in Utah presents unique challenges for outdoor spaces. Whether you’re maintaining a yard, managing a commercial property, or taking on a DIY project, materials like decorative landscaping rock, landscaping sand, and bulk road salt are essential for preparation. At Kilgore Landscape Center, we offer high-quality products and expert advice to help you face the colder months with confidence.

Decorative Landscaping Rock: Beauty Meets Function

Landscaping rock is more than an aesthetic choice—it’s durable and perfect for winter weather. It adds year-round appeal to landscapes while holding up against snow and ice. Here’s how it works:

  • Popular Options: 
    • Mexican Beach Cobble: Black and blue volcanic rock, great for water features, dry riverbeds, and accents.
    • Lava Rock: Bold black rock with a volcanic texture, ideal for ground cover and erosion control.
    • Sunset Cobble: Natural tones of brown and orange, perfect for pathways and decorative areas.
  • Uses: Replace organic mulch with decorative landscaping rock for a maintenance-free option that insulates and protects roots during winter. It’s also perfect for creating snow-resistant pathways and enhancing features like fire pits and fountains. 

Landscaping Sand: Versatile and Practical

Landscaping sand is very helpful for improving drainage, creating traction, and supporting hardscaping projects during winter according to a publication by the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management.

  • Drainage and Erosion Control: Landscaping sand prevents pooling and runoff caused by Utah’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles. Use it to stabilize slopes and reduce erosion. Learn more about Utah’s freeze-thaw cycles through the Utah State University Climate Center.
  • Traction: Sprinkle landscaping sand on icy surfaces like driveways or walkways for better grip without harming the environment.
  • Hardscaping Projects: Sand provides a solid base for winter construction projects like retaining walls or decorative landscaping rock features.

Our team can help you calculate the amount of landscaping sand you need and arrange for delivery to your site.

Bulk Road Salt: Essential for Safety

Bulk road salt is a winter must-have for preventing ice hazards and keeping outdoor spaces safe.

  • Applications: Use bulk road salt on walkways, driveways, and high-traffic areas to prevent ice from forming and make snow removal easier. For more information, check out the Utah Geological Survey’s page on freeze-thaw cycles.
  • Pairing Materials: Combine bulk road salt with landscaping sand for improved traction in hilly areas. This combination is ideal for residential and commercial properties.
  • Alternatives: If you’re concerned about the environmental impact, we offer alternative ice melt products that are plant- and concrete-safe.

Tips for Winterizing Your Property

  1. Plan Ahead: Stock up on materials like bulk road salt before the first snowfall.
  2. Layer Materials: Use decorative landscaping rock for pathways, landscaping sand for drainage, and bulk road salt for ice control.
  3. Prioritize Safety: Focus on high-traffic areas to reduce slip hazards.
  4. Ask the Experts: The Kilgore team is ready to offer advice tailored to your property’s needs.

Why Choose Kilgore Landscape Center?

With over 40 years of experience serving Utah, Kilgore Landscape Center at Asphalt Materials Inc. is the trusted source for winter-ready materials. We provide:

  • A Wide Selection: From decorative landscaping rock to bulk road salt, we have everything you need.
  • Expert Guidance: Our team helps you select the right materials for your project.
  • Convenient Delivery: Let us handle the heavy lifting with delivery services.

Get Winter-Ready Today
 Visit Kilgore’s Salt Lake Landscape Center at 7961 S 1300 W, West Jordan, UT, or call (801) 561-4231 to prepare your outdoor space for Utah’s toughest season. With our help, you’ll create a safe, functional, and attractive environment that stands up to the elements.

Jan 17
0
asphalt materials and concrete at kilgore landscape center

How to Extend the Life of Concrete and Asphalt Materials During Winter Months

By | concrete ice melts, ice melt salt, landscaping sand, purple heat ice melt, road salt | No Comments

Winter weather can take seriously damage on concrete and asphalt. The freezing and thawing cycle, heavy snow, and ice can create cracks, potholes, and surface wear that are costly to repair. The good news? With some simple maintenance and the right products, like concrete safe ice melts, you can keep your surfaces in great shape all season long.

Here’s how to extend the life of your concrete and asphalt during winter months.

Why Winter Causes Surface Damage

The freeze-thaw cycle is one of the main reasons behind winter damage. Water seeps into cracks or pores in your concrete or asphalt, freezes, and expands. This pushes apart the concrete or asphalt material, widening cracks and weakening the structure.

To make matters worse, overuse of de-icing products like road salt can sometimes accelerate surface deterioration. That’s why it’s important to use the right products like treated bulk road salt or specific ice melt salt minimize damage while keeping your property safe.

Seal Cracks and Joints Before Winter

Small cracks may not seem like a big deal, but they can quickly turn into expensive repairs. Sealing cracks and joints in your asphalt or concrete before winter arrives can prevent water from getting in and freezing.

For asphalt, patch repairs work well to fill potholes or depressions. For concrete, flexible sealants create a waterproof barrier that protects the surface from moisture. This simple step goes a long way toward preventing winter damage.

Choose High-Quality Ice Melt Salt

Not all de-icers are the same. Traditional rock salt is effective at melting ice, but it can be harsh on concrete and asphalt. Modern ice melt options like Polar Ice Melt or Purple Heat Ice Melt are designed to work in extremely cold temperatures while being gentler on surfaces.

These products:

  • Melt ice quickly and efficiently.
  • Include anti-caking agents for easy spreading.
  • Use dyes (blue or purple) to help with controlled application.

Using high-quality ice melt salt creates safe surfaces without overloading them with chemicals that could cause damage.

Be Smart About Road Salt Usage

Road salt is necessary for keeping parking lots, driveways, and roads safe, but too much can harm surfaces over time. The chlorides in salt can react with concrete, causing it to weaken.

To reduce this risk:

  1. Apply bulk road salt or any ice melt salt products sparingly.
  2. Use treated salts, which include additives like magnesium chloride for better performance.
  3. Choose concrete safe ice melts that are designed to minimize damage.
  4. Sweep up excess salt once the ice melts.

Also, treated bulk road salt often works more effectively, so you need less of it to achieve the same results.

Improve Drainage to Prevent Ice Build-Up

Standing water is another major cause of winter surface damage. If water pools on your driveway or parking lot, it can freeze and expand, worsening cracks and weakening the material.

To reduce this risk:

  • Make sure your surfaces are properly graded to direct water away.
  • Keep drains and gutters clear of debris.
  • Add landscaping sand in icy spots for better traction.

Landscaping sand is an affordable, non-corrosive option for improving traction without adding stress to your surfaces. It’s especially useful for walkways or high-traffic areas where chemical de-icers may not be needed.

Protect Concrete with a Sealant

Concrete is more porous than asphalt, which makes it more susceptible to damage from water and de-icing chemicals. Applying a high-quality sealer before winter creates a protective barrier that repels water and prevents salt penetration.

Reapplying a sealer every one to two years is a simple and cost-effective way to keep concrete surfaces durable during winter.

Clear Snow Safely

Snow removal is essential in winter, but it can also cause damage if not done correctly. Metal-edged shovels and snowplows can scratch or chip surfaces, making them more vulnerable to moisture and freezing.

To prevent damage:

  • Use plastic or rubber-edged shovels.
  • Adjust snowplow blades to reduce direct contact with the surface.
  • Clear snow promptly to limit ice build-up.

Pair snow removal with light applications of bulk road salt or concrete safe ice melts with landscaping sand to keep surfaces safe and slip-free.

Regular Inspections Matter

The best way to prevent major surface issues is to address small problems early. Walk your property during winter to check for cracks, standing water, or uneven areas. Quick repairs can keep minor issues from turning into costly damage.

At the end of the season, clean your surfaces thoroughly to remove leftover ice melt salt, landscaping sand, and other debris. This will keep your concrete and asphalt looking clean and ready for spring.

Rely on the Right Products

The products you choose play a big role in keeping your surfaces in good condition during winter. High-quality options like treated bulk road salt and advanced ice melt salt products melt ice efficiently while being less harsh on concrete and asphalt.

Kilgore Landscape Center offers a wide selection of de-icing solutions, including eco-friendly options that are safer for the environment. Their team can help you choose the right products for your needs and provide expert advice on how to apply them effectively.

Polar Ice Melt

Polar Ice Melt is made for extreme cold, working in temperatures as low as -25°F. Its formula, which includes sodium chloride, liquid magnesium chloride, and sodium silicate, make is one of the concrete safe ice melts compared to traditional rock salt. The blue dye ensures even application, reducing overuse that can harm surfaces. It also resists tracking, so there’s less residue inside homes and buildings. By minimizing freeze-thaw cycles and chemical stress, Polar Ice Melt is ideal for residential and commercial use.

Purple Heat Ice Melt

Purple Heat Ice Melt is another great option, working down to -15°F. With an 8% magnesium chloride blend, it’s gentler on concrete and asphalt while still being highly effective. The purple dye helps ensure controlled application, protecting surfaces by avoiding overuse. Purple Heat is pet-friendly, environmentally safer, and helps prevent cracks and pitting caused by freeze-thaw cycles, making it a smart choice for homeowners.

Treated Bulk Road Salt

Treated bulk road salt, Type C White, is enhanced with magnesium chloride, which lowers the freezing point of water and reduces freeze-thaw cycles that can crack surfaces. An anti-caking agent ensures smooth application and minimizes waste, making it a practical choice for large areas like parking lots and roads. This product provides reliable de-icing while being easier on concrete and asphalt, extending the life of your surfaces during winter.

Final Tips

Protecting concrete and asphalt during winter is all about preparation and smart maintenance. By sealing cracks, using the right de-icers like road salt, and improving drainage with landscaping sand, you can keep your surfaces in great shape for years to come.

For high-quality products like concrete safe ice melts and other winter maintenance solutions, visit Kilgore Landscape Center. Their team is ready to help you keep your property safe and your surfaces protected all winter long.

Dec 17
0
decorative landscaping rock firepit

DIY: How to Build an Outdoor Firepit Using Landscaping Products

By | decorative landscaping rock, landscaping sand, road salt | No Comments

An outdoor firepit is the perfect addition to any backyard, especially during the cold Winter months in Utah. It creates a cozy space where family and friends can gather to share stories, toast marshmallows for s’mores, and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire. With the right tools and materials from Kilgore Landscape Center, you can build your own firepit that is both functional and visually appealing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to DIYing a backyard firepit using decorative landscaping rock, landscaping sand, and other basic materials.

Step 1: Choose a Level Spot

To begin, select a flat, open area that is safe and far from flammable materials. The University of Utah suggests that the firepit is “​​away from dry brush of hanging branches.” A safe, level spot makes sure that your firepit remains stable and distributes heat evenly. Use a rake and shovel to clear the area of debris and create a flat surface.

Recommended Product:

  • 1″ Minus Unwashed Rock: Kilgore’s gravel mix can be used to even out the ground and provide a stable base.
  • Bedding Sand: Their landscaping sand can be used for leveling beneath pavers. They provide an online blend sand calculator to help you determine the quantity you need.

Step 2: Lay the Base Layer

Once the area is level, it’s time to set the foundation. Use pavers or even flat stones like flagstone to create the base layer of your firepit. Arrange the pavers in your desired shape, typically a circle or square. Make sure that they are snugly fit together using polymeric landscaping sand to secure the joints and prevent weed growth.

Recommended Product:

Tip:  Enhance this base layer by using decorative landscaping rock around it. This not only looks great but also helps define the firepit’s borders.

Step 3: Add Firepit Blocks

Stack firepit blocks in a circle around your base layer. Kilgore Landscape Center offers pre-cut firepit blocks designed to fit together seamlessly. Start with the first row, ensuring it is level before stacking additional layers.

Recommended Product:

Step 4: Secure the Blocks with Polymeric Sand

To keep the firepit stable and prevent the blocks from shifting, apply polymeric sand between the layers. This special sand hardens when exposed to water, creating a strong bond. The University of Florida notes that “polymeric sand does a good job of keeping pavers in place and stopping weeds.” Brush the sand into the joints between blocks, then mist lightly with water to activate.

Recommended Product:

  • Polymeric Sand Granite 50 lb Bags: Kilgore’s granite polymeric sand pairs well with their granite firepit blocks and can be used for paver joints up to 2″ thick.

Step 5: Add Firepit Glass

For the finishing touch, line the interior of your firepit with firepit glass. Available in various colors, this glass enhances the aesthetic appeal of your firepit while evenly distributing heat. Firepit glass is safer and cleaner than traditional wood-burning options.

Recommended Product:

  • Firepit Glass: Choose from a variety of styles, sizes and colors to match your outdoor décor.

Enhancing the Firepit Area

A firepit is more than a standalone feature—it’s a centerpiece for outdoor relaxation. Enhance the surrounding space with decorative landscaping rock, which can be used to create a border or walkway around the firepit. Adding a layer of landscaping sand beneath the decorative rocks helps stabilize them and prevents weed growth.

Recommended Products:

  • Mexican Beach Cobble: One of the most popular of Kilgore’s rocks. They also offer a wide selection of rocks, from pebbles to cobblestones, to suit any design.
  • Bedding Sand: Ideal for creating a stable and smooth surface under decorative features.

Why Use Kilgore Landscape Center’s Materials?

Kilgore Landscape Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, provides high-quality materials for DIY projects. Here’s why their products stand out:

  • Wide Range of Options: From landscaping rock to polymeric sand, Kilgore has everything you need in one place.
  • Durable Materials: Products like firepit blocks and pavers are built to withstand Utah’s climate.
  • Local Expertise: Kilgore’s team offers advice on choosing the right materials for your specific project.

Tips for a Successful DIY Firepit

  • Measure Twice: Before purchasing materials, measure your firepit area to calculate the quantity needed.
  • Safety First: Always use fire-resistant materials like Kilgore’s firepit blocks and glass.
  • Regular Maintenance: Sweep away debris and reapply polymeric sand as needed to maintain stability.

Adding Practicality with Road Salt

For winter months, keep the area around your firepit accessible by using road salt to manage snow and ice. Be sure to choose products that are safe for nearby landscaping.

Recommended Product:

Pickup or Deliver Your Products

Building your own firepit is an achievable project that adds charm and functionality to your outdoor space. Using high-quality materials from Kilgore Landscape Center ensures that your firepit will be safe, durable, and visually appealing. With products like decorative landscaping rock, landscaping sand, and firepit glass, Kilgore has everything you need to bring your vision to life.

Visit Kilgore Landscape Center in Salt Lake City or browse their product catalog online to get started on your DIY firepit today. Pickup or deliver your landscaping materials right to your door!