BLOG NUMBER 28.35
Winter is just around the corner, and if you’re in a region that experiences heavy snowfall, preparing for snow removal is essential. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), around 70% of the U.S. population lives in areas that receive more than five inches of snow annually. Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions, making effective snow removal a critical task for homeowners, business owners, and municipalities. To stay ahead of the winter storms and ensure safety, it’s important to understand the best snow removal methods available today.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most efficient techniques for clearing snow and ice, helping you stay prepared for winter.
1. Shoveling: The Old-School Classic
For many, the image of winter is incomplete without a trusty snow shovel. Shoveling is one of the simplest and most accessible snow removal methods. It’s cost-effective, as all you need is a shovel, and it allows for precise snow clearing from sidewalks, driveways, and porches.
While shoveling is a go-to option for small areas, it’s important to be mindful of the physical strain it can cause. Lifting heavy snow can lead to back injuries, and the cold temperatures add another layer of risk. If you’re planning to shovel, here are a few tips to stay safe:
- Use an ergonomic shovel to reduce the strain on your back.
- Push snow rather than lifting it when possible.
- Take frequent breaks, especially in deep snow conditions.
Shoveling remains a reliable solution for small properties and light snowfalls, but for larger areas or heavy snow, more efficient options may be necessary.
2. Snow Blowers: A Mechanical Solution for Heavy Snow
When snow starts piling up, particularly after several inches, snow blowers become invaluable. A snow blower is a machine that blows snow away from driveways, sidewalks, and other surfaces, reducing the time and effort required to clear snow manually.
There are two main types of snow blowers:
- Single-stage snow blowers: These are ideal for light to moderate snowfalls (under 8 inches). They work by scraping the snow and ice off the surface and shooting it out through a discharge chute.
- Two-stage snow blowers: Designed for heavier snowfalls, two-stage blowers have an auger that breaks up snow before a fan blows it out. They’re perfect for handling deeper snow and larger areas.
Snow blowers save considerable time and effort, but they do come with a higher upfront cost and require maintenance, such as refueling or battery charging. Additionally, they’re most effective on paved surfaces.
3. Salt and Ice Melt: Prevention and Ice Management
Preventing the buildup of ice and snow is as important as removing it. Applying salt or ice melt to driveways and walkways before a snowstorm can prevent snow from sticking to the ground and make removal easier afterward. These substances work by lowering the freezing point of water, preventing the formation of ice or helping ice melt more quickly.
There are several types of de-icing agents to choose from, including:
- Rock salt (sodium chloride): This is the most commonly used product, and it’s affordable. However, it’s less effective in extremely cold temperatures (below 15°F) and can be harmful to plants and pets.
- Calcium chloride: This substance works at lower temperatures and melts snow and ice more quickly than rock salt.
- Magnesium chloride and potassium chloride: These are more eco-friendly and safer for use around plants, pets, and concrete, but they’re often more expensive.
Using de-icers in combination with other snow removal methods ensures you can maintain safer, more walkable surfaces throughout the winter months. However, applying too much salt can cause environmental damage, so it’s important to follow guidelines for proper application.
4. Plowing: Clearing Large Areas Efficiently
For large properties or long driveways, plowing is one of the most effective snow removal methods. Snow plows can be attached to trucks, ATVs, or specialized plow vehicles to push snow off driveways, roads, and parking lots.
Plowing is especially beneficial for commercial properties, municipalities, and homeowners with large lots who need quick snow removal. Professional snow plow services can clear large areas in a fraction of the time it would take with a snow blower or shovel. In some regions, cities may even offer snow plowing as part of their winter services for public roads.
However, snow plows may leave behind compacted snow or ice layers, which can become slippery. This is where combining plowing with de-icing agents can ensure better overall results. For those with smaller properties, hiring a snow plow service is a great alternative to purchasing your own plow equipment, which can be costly.
5. Snow Removal Services: Professional Help When You Need It
Sometimes, the winter storm hits harder than expected, or you simply don’t have the time, equipment, or energy to manage snow removal on your own. This is where professional snow removal services can step in. These services are equipped with all the necessary tools, from snow blowers and plows to de-icing chemicals, to keep your property safe and accessible throughout the winter season.
Professional snow removal services offer the following benefits:
- Consistency: You can rely on them to clear snow promptly, even during severe storms.
- Safety: Professional crews are trained to clear snow without damaging your property.
- Convenience: They take care of the heavy lifting, so you can focus on your daily routine without worrying about snow removal.
In regions with heavy snow, setting up a seasonal snow removal contract with a reliable company ensures you’re always prepared, no matter how intense the winter becomes.
6. Heated Driveways: A Long-Term Investment
For those looking to eliminate the need for manual snow removal altogether, heated driveways are an innovative solution. These systems use electric cables or hydronic tubing installed under the driveway surface to melt snow and ice as it falls. When snow is detected, the system automatically turns on, melting the snow before it has a chance to accumulate.
While installing a heated driveway is a significant investment, it offers long-term convenience, especially in areas with frequent snowfall. Heated driveways are maintenance-free, reduce the need for de-icing agents, and prevent the formation of ice. They’re ideal for those who want a hands-off approach to snow removal.
Also Read: Top 5 Benefits of Installing Snow Guards on Your Metal Roof
Let Swenson Consulting Help You Stay Winter-Ready!
Winter weather can be unpredictable, and staying prepared with the right snow removal methods is key to ensuring safety and convenience. At Jeremy Swenson Consulting, we specialize in helping businesses and homeowners develop customized snow removal strategies that suit their unique needs. When you need advice on winter preparations, our team is here to assist you.
Don’t wait for the first snowfall to start planning—get in touch with Swenson Consulting today! Call us at (816) 564-9131 or visit our website at www.jeremyswenson.com to schedule a consultation and stay ahead of the winter storms.
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