Snow & Ice Removal: 5 Steps For Doing it Yourself

Step 4: Prepare early
Even with all the predictions by meteorologists, the almanac, wooly caterpillars, acorns on the ground, and bees’ nests in trees, we still never really know how much snow we’ll get in any given winter, so your best bet is to plan ahead. Even the best contractors get behind when we get blasted by snow, but it’s easier to catch up when you’ve planned ahead.

TIPS of the TRADE:
Here’s a simple trick that most people miss, especially homeowners associations or developments: Use driveway markers to stake out the areas you want plowed BEFORE it snows. Snow covers everything. And after a few inches of the stuff it’s hard to tell exactly what’s lurking beneath the surface. These inexpensive markers will remind you of those speed bumps, mailboxes, fire hydrants, culverts, and other obstacles to avoid when you’re clearing snow. These markers tell professional contractors where the sides of the road are so that they can plow the full width of the road instead of leaving feet of road unplowed and it lets them know to stay away from grassy areas or flower beds that could be damaged by their equipment. A small investment that will pay for itself in convenience and saved property.

Step 5: Implementation
The first snowfall of the year is always an exciting time. So exciting, in fact, that people tend to forget some simple things they planned to do when it snows. When you see snow in the forecast review your plan. Make sure you remember everything you planned to do just to keep it fresh in your mind.  You’ll feel a lot more comfortable knowing you’re prepared.

Make sure your equipment is in working order one last time. Your equipment should be prepped and ready to go long before we even start to talk of snow, but one last check will make sure you haven’t forgotten anything. Hook up the plow to the truck, install the spreader, make sure the handle on the shovel is tight, and test them one more time.  

Remember to plan for the weather. Have extra blankets, flares, food, water, a charged cell phone, and other necessary items in your vehicle if you’ll be traveling in inclement weather and remember to always drive safely. If you’re clearing your driveway and you’ll be out in the elements, take breaks to keep warm and remember not to over exert yourself; snow is heavy and shoveling a driveway to parking lot can be hard work.

TIPS of the TRADE:
If you have a small business you should always have de-icing material on hand to keep you parking lots, sidewalks, and steps free from icy build up which can cause people to slip and fall. This handy salt bin keeps enough salt, calcium chloride, or environmentally safe “green” de-icer on hand at all times to keep most small businesses free from icy walkways. Package the salt bin with a small spreader, shovel, and other winter necessities to make a snow removal and ice control kit that’ll keep you open for business and help keep your customers safe all winter.