The Role of Gritters in Winter Road Safety

Every winter, we hear reports of incoming cold snaps. One clear sign that freezing temperatures are approaching is the sight of gritters out on the roads. These council-operated vehicles work tirelessly to ensure roads remain safe by spreading grit at the first hint of icy conditions. Their job is crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring all vehicles maintain grip on the road, no matter how treacherous the weather becomes.

The Dirty Side of Road Grit

While gritters serve an essential purpose in keeping roads safe, they also create an unfortunate side effect—dirt. This is particularly problematic for commercial vehicle operators compared to everyday car drivers. The reasons for this are twofold:

  1. Time Spent on the Road – Commercial vehicles, especially those involved in logistics and transport, spend significantly more time on the road than personal vehicles. The longer they are exposed to road grit, the more grime accumulates.

  2. Brand Impact – For businesses, a clean fleet represents professionalism and reliability. Dirty, salt-covered trucks or vans can negatively affect brand perception, making it crucial to maintain a clean image despite winter conditions.

Why Does Grit Cause So Much Dirt?

Grit itself is not the only culprit when it comes to dirty vehicles. Over the last few years, councils have modified their approach to road gritting by incorporating molasses into the mixture. While the adhesive properties of molasses help the grit stick to the road more effectively, they also create a nightmare for vehicle cleanliness.

The Impact of Molasses in Road Grit

Molasses is a sticky substance derived from sugar refining, and when mixed with grit, it improves traction on icy roads. However, when combined with rainwater, it forms a stubborn, filmy residue that clings to vehicles. This grime is difficult to remove and can quickly build up, especially on trucks and larger vehicles that are constantly exposed to treated roads.

The Challenges of Cleaning Grit Residue

Removing the combination of grit, salt, and molasses from a vehicle is no easy task. The sticky nature of molasses means that standard washing techniques may not be sufficient. Left unchecked, this residue can:

  • Cause corrosion and rust, particularly on exposed metal surfaces.

  • Reduce visibility if it accumulates on windscreens, mirrors, and lights.

  • Damage branding and signage on vehicles, making logos and company information less visible.

How to Keep Your Fleet Clean in Winter

To combat the effects of road grit and molasses buildup, regular and thorough vehicle washing is essential. Here are some best practices:

  • Frequent Washes – Increase the frequency of cleaning during winter months to prevent grime from settling.

  • Use Specialised Cleaning Products – Standard soap and water may not be enough; using commercial-grade traffic film removers (TFR) can help break down the sticky residue.

  • Protective Coatings – Applying wax or a protective coating can make it harder for grime to adhere to the vehicle surface, easing the cleaning process.

  • Target Key Areas – Pay extra attention to undercarriages, wheel arches, and branding areas where dirt buildup is most noticeable.

A Necessary Nuisance

While road grit plays an essential role in keeping roads safe during winter, it also presents a challenge for vehicle cleanliness. The addition of molasses to grit compounds the problem, making it even more difficult to keep fleets looking presentable. However, with regular cleaning and proper maintenance, businesses can mitigate the effects and ensure their vehicles remain both safe and professional-looking throughout the colder months.