Managing snow removal effectively is not as easy of a thing to do as it might look. You will have to go through quite a few challenges to get the job done well and keep surfaces safe. However, there are also a few tips that you can follow to manage snow removal work. To help you with getting a perfect job done, we thought of sharing some tips on how to manage snow removal work. No matter how big or small the problem with snow is, you may follow these tips to manage snow removal more effectively.
- Use snow stakes to identify surface edges and obstacles
Marking the outer limits of the places you want to clear will make it much easier to remove snow and ice from them. Snow stakes are indeed a great snow-plowing tip since they may prevent accidentally destroying the grass, landscaping, or the surrounding area if you were using a snowblower or plow. You’ll be able to work more effectively as a consequence.
Starting to clear snow off your pathway or the point where guests enter your property is another useful driveway snow removal tip. Since existing snowbanks melt and then refreeze as additional snow falls and the season progresses, the pathways tend to get more congested. So, if you maintain your route broad at first, any eventual narrowing won’t obstruct it.
- Keep your boots dry & in good shape
You should dry off your shoes before entering after being outside in the snow. The use of old newspapers is great for this purpose. Lay down some blankets on the floor, then place your footwear there. If the interior of your shoes is moist, place some newspaper inside the boots in rolled-up pieces. It will absorb the moisture and hasten the drying of your boots.
Sometimes it becomes challenging to keep your tall winter boots from sagging. The ideal solution for this is to slice a pool noodle into pieces and employ them to maintain the form of your boots. When you aren’t wearing them, it will keep them looking fantastic.
- Get your vehicles ready to deal with a snowstorm
Prior to a storm, be sure you think ahead to how it would be best to park your vehicle(s). For example, if your vehicle is front-wheel drive, it might be best to back into your space so you can use those front wheels to pull through the snow. If you normally park on the road, make sure it’s safe to do so with a pending storm. Also be sure your vehicle is equipped with snow removal tools that might be needed if you get stuck. Depending on where you live and how steep your driveway is, perhaps you might need some salt in your vehicle or a small snow shovel.
Keep in mind that your snow plowing company may have to push the snow back against the building, or they might create a pile you need to get through. Additionally, despite all of the snow, make sure you can still see the kids if they come around without backing out, making it much safer to leave.
It’s also a good idea to make sure your vehicle has extra wiper fluid when winter storms are coming. That might not be a “snow removal” tip, but it’s helpful when managing the process of driving through the snow! Having plenty of wiper fluid will assist in clearing your windshield of any snow or ice. Despite the fact that it appears obvious, many individuals forget to refill their windshield washers until it is too late.
- Don’t use too much ice melt
It can be human nature to think “more is better.” However, that’s not the case with applying ice melt products to sidewalks, roads, driveways and parking lots. Ice melt can be extremely corrosive to surfaces and harmful to landscaping and pets when over-applied. You probably don’t need as much as you think because every granule will melt 1-2 inches around where it lands. You don’t need to pile it on thick and cover every square inch of the surface. Not only is it bad for concrete and landscaping, but it is also more expensive to use too much product and it will cost you even more money down the road when you have to replace concrete, grass and plants.
- Remove snow before it gets too deep
Removing snow before it becomes too thick and heavy (especially when it is wet) is among the most obvious snow removal tips that people sometimes ignore. Try to stay up on removal so it isn’t too difficult. Professional snow contractors do this too and visit sites multiple times when the snow really starts to pile up. If you wait until the snow is deep, you risk attempting to lift excessive amounts at a time in order to do the task quickly and can end up hurting your back. Take your time and be kind to yourself.
Try to push snow rather than lift it when doing manual snow removal. It may seem like advice from a high school coach, but pushing snow aside as opposed to lifting it will likely require less effort and lessen the strain on your body. Don’t wait till the snow ends. As soon as the snow begins to fall, start clearing it. Based on how long it is anticipated that the snowfall will last, make a timetable. You will be grateful for this in the future. If possible, try to have fun with it and enjoy the peace and fresh air.
- Maintain appropriate posture
We cannot stress enough the correct posture and procedures while discussing snow and ice disposal tips and tricks. We are all aware that winter injuries are all too often caused by snow shoveling. However, it doesn’t have to be that way; the majority of accidents happen because the shoveler neglected to employ good techniques when digging. Keep your spade close to you when using it to avoid injuries.
Maintaining your grip on the shovel handle farther downward is the best method for clearing snow. Your lifting will thus feel lighter. Face the snow while maintaining a square posture with your hips and shoulders. Instead of arching your back, bend at the knees and raise with your legs.
- BONUS JUST FOR FUN: “Roll Snow”
Think again if you believe that clearing snow is monotonous and dull! Try the new phenomenon of “rolling snow” off your driveway. Snow removal can indeed be enjoyable, who knew? Don’t strain your back by shoveling off all that white stuff knowing that you are aware of the simplest trick for clearing snow from your driveway. Have fun alongside your children and attempt to fling them away from your property in enormous snowballs.
Just bear in mind that no single snowstorm fits itself to this type of snow removal if you’re thinking about using it. To keep this going, you’re going to need snow that is moist, thick, and sticky. Stick to your regular snow shovel if the snow is dry or light-powdery.
If your property is located in the Mid-Atlantic region including Maryland, Virginia, Delaware or the greater Washington D.C. area, don’t hesitate to contact Rasevic for a quote so you can leave your snow removal needs up to us!