Ice melt will only be effective is dispersed properly. Contrary to public opinion, using large amounts of ice melt is not a good thing. The quantity does not affect the speed at which ice and snow melts and too much of the product will most likely damage surfaces and harm the environment.

For accuracy, mechanical spreaders are recommended. Many manufacturers die their product to make it easier to see, especially on the white ground, helping to ensure even distribution.

Applying ice melt in advance of a storm helps guarantee the product is in place when the snow starts falling and enables the product to create a brine on the surface, preventing ice and snow to bonding to the surface. End users should continue to disperse ice melt during a storm as well to prevent snow from becoming hard-packed on concrete. Early attention before and during a storm will also prevent freeze-thaw scaling of surfaces.