3 Snow Removal Tips to Keep Your Driveway and Walkways Clear All Winter
Clearing snow from driveways and walkways in Airdrie can be tough for homeowners to keep up with, especially with the frequent and heavy snowfalls common in our winters.
Keep reading to learn three tips for keeping your driveway and walkways clear all winter.
Tip #1: Use the Right Tools
Using proper tools can make snow removal easier and reduce physical strain. Here’s how to prepare:
Buy a Quality Snow Shovel
Snow shovels come in various styles, depending on your needs. For soft flurries, choose a lightweight, ergonomic shovel with a curved handle to help maintain posture and minimize fatigue.
For drifting or heavy snowfalls, consider a snow scoop. Just push it into the snow to fill the scoop and slide it to wherever you want to dump it — no lifting.
Use a Snowblower for Large Areas
A snowblower is an asset for long driveways or when heavy snow hits. Keeping your snowblower well-maintained and fuelled will ensure it's ready to go when the snow flies.
Keep a Sturdy Broom and Ice Scraper Handy
A sturdy broom is handy for light snow. Pair it with an ice scraper to address lingering ice patches, especially during early spring when hazardous ice build-up can still happen.
Tip #2: Shovel Early and Often
Keeping up with the snow as it falls will make clearing your driveway and walkways much easier in the long run:
Shovel After Each Snowfall
Don't let the snow pile up. Shovelling after every snowfall prevents ice from forming underneath. It may seem redundant, but shovelling during and after a lengthy snowfall is typically easier than waiting until the snow stops falling because it saves you from dealing with deep, heavy snow.
Push, Don’t Lift
Push the snow to the sides of your driveway or walkway whenever possible instead of lifting it. This technique is less stressful on your back. If you need to lift, bend your knees and keep your back straight to avoid injury.
Tip #3: Use De-Icing Products Wisely
Correctly applying de-icing products helps maintain safe, ice-free surfaces without causing unnecessary damage.
Choose the Right De-Icer
Products like rock salt or calcium chloride melt ice on driveways and walkways. Consider using sand, kitty litter, or de-icers with specific labels for pet-safe or environmentally friendly options.
Apply Before Ice Forms
To get the most out of your de-icer, apply it before a snowstorm or immediately after shovelling to prevent ice from forming. You can also reapply as necessary to keep surfaces ice-free.
Avoid Overuse
Using too much de-icer can harm your concrete and the environment. Apply it sparingly, and once it melts the ice, sweep away any excess to prevent further damage.
Did You Know That Scott’s Sod Also Does Snow Removal?
Scott's Sod in Calgary provides reliable snow removal services that keep your property safe all winter long. Our expert teams take care of snowfalls and ice quickly, preventing buildup and ensuring clear, hazard-free walkways and driveways so you can enjoy a worry-free winter without the aches and pain of shovelling.
