Black ice is one of the most dangerous winter driving and walking hazards precisely because it is nearly invisible, and freeze-thaw cycles are the main way it forms in the London area throughout the winter.
A freeze-thaw cycle happens when temperatures rise above freezing during the day, melting existing snow or ice into liquid water, then drop back below freezing overnight, refreezing that water into a thin, clear layer of ice. Because this ice is thin and forms on top of dark pavement, it often blends in visually and looks like a harmless wet patch rather than a slippery hazard.
Certain spots are especially prone to black ice after a freeze-thaw cycle. Shaded areas that do not get direct sun, bridges and overpasses that cool faster than surrounding ground, and low points where meltwater naturally collects are all common trouble spots. Driveways with poor drainage can develop the same issue, especially near the bottom where water pools before refreezing.
Because black ice is so hard to see, the safest approach is to expect it during any freeze-thaw stretch rather than waiting to spot it. Walking and driving as though the surface might be icy, even when it looks clear, is the most reliable way to avoid a bad fall or skid.
Clear to the Pavement Before Temperatures Drop
The best defence against black ice is leaving as little snow as possible for the sun to melt. When a driveway is cleared down to the surface after a storm, there is far less meltwater to refreeze overnight. Packed snow left behind by tires or foot traffic is the usual source of slick patches the next morning.
Pay attention to the forecast. A mild afternoon followed by a clear, cold night is the classic setup for black ice, so treat the next morning with extra care even if the driveway looked wet rather than icy the day before.
Fix the Spots That Keep Icing Over
Some problems come back every freeze-thaw. Downspouts that drain onto a driveway or walkway, low spots that hold water, and steps that stay in shade all create repeat ice. Redirecting a downspout with an extension or splash block, and keeping drains clear of snow, can remove a hazard for the whole winter.
Salt, Sand and Pet-Safe Options
Salt works best when it goes down early, before a thin layer of water freezes, rather than after ice is already thick. Sand does not melt ice but adds grip on surfaces that are already slick. If pets use the walkway, choose a pet-safe product. We offer seasonal salt as a $175 add-on and pet-safe de-icer as a $120 add-on.
How Our Service Helps
Our seasonal plan is $650 and we come automatically whenever 5 cm of snow falls, clearing the driveway so less snow is left to melt and refreeze. Each visit is documented with timestamped photos. Walkways with up to 6 steps can be added for $175.
Walking Safely on Icy Surfaces
When you have to cross a surface that might be icy, take short steps, keep your weight over your feet and use handrails on steps. Footwear with good tread or slip-on ice cleats helps a lot. Keep a container of sand or traction grit near the front door so you can treat the steps quickly on a bad morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is black ice most likely?
Black ice is most common early in the morning after a day above freezing and a clear, cold night, especially in shaded spots and under downspouts.
Does a seasonal plan include salting?
Salt is an add-on: $175 for the season on residential plans. Pet-safe de-icer is available for $120.
Want a set price for your property? Request a free quote or call or text (548) 888-8702. You can also read about residential snow removal, commercial snow removal and our prices.
What's included… and what's extra
A Thames Valley Snow seasonal residential plan starts from $650 for a standard driveway. It covers clearing the driveway every time snowfall reaches the trigger depth in your agreement, plus the windrow the city plow leaves at the end of the driveway. Larger driveways are priced on our snow removal prices page.
Popular add-ons, priced per season: walkway and steps $150–175, salting $175, priority service $125, pet-safe salt $120, driveway extension $95 and city sidewalk clearing $90. Add only what your property needs; everything is listed on the quote so there are no surprises. Get your fixed price or call or text (548) 888-8702.
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Seasonal snow removal from $650 + HST. Automatic at 5 cm, photo after every visit.
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