For most situations, salt the driveway either just before ice forms or right after you finish shoveling snow.
Best timing
Salting just before a storm or expected overnight refreeze helps keep ice from bonding firmly to the pavement, making shoveling and plowing much easier. If you miss that window, shovel first, then spread a light, even layer of salt to melt remaining packed snow and thin ice.
Temperature considerations
Regular rock salt works best when air temperatures are roughly between 15–30°F (about -9 to -1°C); below that, it becomes much less effective. In very cold conditions, use alternatives like calcium or magnesium chloride, or switch to sand for traction rather than relying on salt to melt ice.
When not to salt
Avoid trying to melt deep, freshly fallen snow with salt alone, because it takes a lot of product and works slowly; shovel or snow-blow first instead. Also be cautious with new or vulnerable concrete and nearby plants, since repeated heavy salting can damage concrete surfaces and harm soil and vegetation.
How much to use
Use a light application rather than heavy piles; guidelines suggest roughly a small handful (around a cup or less) spread over several square feet, not heaped in one spot. If granules remain after all ice has melted, that is a sign you used too much, and sweeping up the excess helps protect your yard and local waterways.
