Technical field guide

Why Pavement Temperature Matters

Air temperature alone does not describe how a de-icer will perform on a specific surface.

Measure where the decision happens

Air temperature is context; pavement temperature describes the surface being treated. Shade, moisture and the surface’s thermal history can produce different conditions within one property.

A repeatable inspection route

Choose representative points at the entrance, shaded pavement, ramp and loading area. Record location, time, instrument and surface condition. Follow the instrument instructions; one reading is not a complete site assessment.

When to change the plan

Use product documentation to assess suitability. When conditions exceed useful limits, escalate the plan rather than assuming more material solves the problem. Clearing, monitoring and restricting access may be needed.

Document conditions

Review the forecast, pavement temperature, surface condition, drainage and product label. Record what was applied, where and when. Reassess after traffic, precipitation or temperature changes.

Build a repeatable process

• Define the treatment objective before choosing material
• Use equipment suited to the target surface
• Calibrate output instead of relying on a dial position
• Inspect results and document changing conditions