Mitchell Property Maintenance: Navigating Ontario’s Road Salt Shortage

MiTCHELL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Mitchell Property Maintenance: Managing Ontario’s Road Salt Shortage with Bulk Supply

In February 2025, Ontario is experiencing another major road salt shortage, posing challenges for contractors and businesses that rely on consistent bulk salt supply and de-icing solutions. With frequent storms this year driving up demand, many bulk salt suppliers have struggled to keep pace, forcing some contractors to seek salt from distant sources at higher costs. Additionally, many suppliers are now prioritizing municipal and government contracts, leaving private contractors with fewer options.

At Mitchell Property Maintenance, we aim to anticipate shortages and take proactive steps to secure and maintain our own bulk salt supply. By keeping a dedicated reserve, we can buffer against supply chain disruptions and continue to provide reliable service to our clients. We also actively manage our supply channels to ensure we can maintain steady access to high-quality road salt throughout the winter season.

Key Salt Mining Sources in Ontario

Most of Ontario’s road salt comes from the Windsor Salt Mine and the Goderich Salt Mine. The Goderich Salt Mine, owned by Compass Minerals, is the largest underground salt mine in the world, operating since 1959 at depths reaching 1,800 feet under Lake Huron—comparable to the height of the CN Tower. The mine produces rock salt using drill-and-blast and continuous mining techniques, ensuring a steady supply for decades to come. However, despite extensive reserves, periodic shortages arise due to unpredictable winter conditions and surging demand. This doesn’t have to do with how much salt the mine has, but often to do with trucking, stockpile levels, and trying to keep up with the demand.

Mitchell Property Maintenance’s Proactive Approach

Unlike many in the industry struggling with supply chain issues, Mitchell Property Maintenance recognized the risk of a shortage early and took action to secure a stable salt supply well in advance. By proactively managing our stock and maintaining strong supplier relationships, we have ensured that our clients will continue receiving reliable service at a consistent price, even as shortages can drive up costs for others contractors and ultimately their customers.

While other contractors are dealing with limited availability and price surges, our bulk storage and advanced procurement strategy allow us to provide uninterrupted service without the volatility of fluctuating market conditions.

How the Salt Shortage Impacts the Industry

  • Increased demand and reduced supply have significantly strained the market, causing price hikes and delays.
  • Some suppliers are prioritizing municipalities and government contracts, leaving private contractors with limited options.
  • Contractors forced to source salt from further locations are incurring higher transportation costs, impacting service affordability.
  • Road safety concerns are rising, as some companies struggle to apply salt as needed, creating slippery and hazardous conditions.

Reliable Road Salt and Deicing Solutions with Mitchell Property Maintenance

At Mitchell Property Maintenance, we understand the challenges that winter brings and take every measure to ensure seamless service, even during supply shortages. Our proactive approach means you can count on reliable road salt application and de-icing solutions without unexpected disruptions.

If you’re looking for a winter maintenance provider that prioritizes efficiency, preparedness, and safety, we’re here to help. Contact us today at 519-664-2500 or email at [email protected] to learn more about our services and how we can keep your property safe and accessible all season long.