Why Road Surface Temperature Matters More Than the Forecast

At Bawcro, we know that road surface temperature is the key to safer gritting. Air temperature gives part of the picture, but it does not tell the whole story. Road surface temperature shows the real risk. It guides our gritting decisions every day and keeps sites safe when conditions change fast.

Road Surface Temperature vs Air Temperature

Most people check the air to decide when to grit. However, the real danger is often on the ground. The surface can fall below freezing even when the air feels mild. As a result, roads, car parks, and paths may ice over without warning. That is why we rely on surface data, not just air forecasts.

Relying solely on public weather forecasts carries real risks. Many businesses that simply depend on these forecasts run an extremely high risk of being caught out by sub-zero road surface temperatures, resulting in slips, trips, and falls. By focusing on the actual temperature where it matters, the road surface, we help prevent unseen hazards and keep sites genuinely safe.

Using Forecasts Built for Road Surface Temperature

We use specialist forecasts that focus on road surface temperature. They go beyond standard weather apps. These forecasts provide location-specific insights into when the ground will freeze. Because of this, we can grit at the right time and keep sites safe. In addition, our approach reduces waste and cuts costs for clients.

Early warnings play a crucial role in preventing slips, trips, and falls during icy conditions. We use advanced road surface temperature forecasting systems that provide accurate, site-specific data for every location we cover.

These forecasts go far beyond general weather predictions. They pinpoint exactly when and where road surfaces are expected to drop below freezing, often before it is obvious from the air temperature. With this precise insight, we can alert our teams and clients in advance, prepare resources efficiently, and schedule gritting before the ground ices over.

This proactive approach means our gritting is not only effective but perfectly timed for each site, no matter how unpredictable the weather becomes. Timely information helps us protect busy locations while giving peace of mind to customers and on-site teams. With clear, location-specific forecasts, everyone knows what to expect and can stay ready for changing conditions, resulting in no surprises and fewer risks.

Extra Protection for High-Risk Areas

Some places freeze faster than others. For example, multi-storey car parks, sloped driveways, and shaded paths often ice up before open areas. In these cases, we use real-time road surface temperature readings where available. Therefore, we can respond quickly and prevent accidents before they happen.

Smarter Gritting Through Real Data

At Bawcro, we never grit on guesswork. Instead, we use data every day to decide when treatments are needed. This means fewer unnecessary applications, less salt wasted, and safer sites all winter. Because our service is data-driven, clients benefit from greater safety, lower costs, and a reduced environmental impact.

Areas We Cover

We provide proactive gritting based on road surface temperature monitoring across Yorkshire and the North of England. This includes Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Huddersfield, Halifax, York, Greater Manchester, and nearby towns. As a result, local businesses, schools, and industrial estates can rely on us for the right treatment at the right time.