As the winter arrives, you might find yourself facing a common concern: snow removal. With snowfall blanketing your driveway, backyard, and patio, it can be a challenge to keep your property clear and safe.
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or just looking for some new tactics, this guide will help make the snow removal process less daunting and more efficient.
Use an ergonomic snow shovel
Selecting an appropriate shovel is important in efficiently managing hefty piles of snow. The ideal shovel is lightweight and has an ergonomic design to make the task a little safer. It’s important to consider your shovel’s height, a curved handle for upright operation, diverse blade shapes for pushing or lifting and materials such as steel, plastic or aluminum. Plastic may be lighter weight, but it could break more easily than your other options. [1]
Try out a few ice-melting techniques
In addition to traditional rock salt or ice-melting products, there are several safe and effective methods to melt the ice. These include a mixture of hot water, dish soap and rubbing alcohol; sand; coffee grounds; sugar beet juice; and vinegar. Do your research before trying. And be careful to avoid damaging your property or the surrounding environment. [2]
Improve snow blowing methods
A snowblower is designed to handle heavy and wet snow by breaking it up and throwing it out of your way. Make sure to clear the snow as soon as it stops falling and before you drive on it to help prevent it from becoming packed down and harder to move.
If you don’t have a snow blower, you can use a leaf blower instead. It’s best used for light, powdery, dry snow, and it can clear a thin layer of snow before it has a chance to melt and turn into ice.
Apply cooking spray to shovel
To make the daunting task of shoveling the driveway a little easier, use some cooking spray on your shovel. This can help cut through the snow and prevent it from sticking. To prevent future messes, remember to wipe your shovel down before storing it. [2]
Clean the roof with a snow rake
If you’re looking to get a buildup of snow off the roof, consider buying a roof rake. These look like shovels but have an extended handle that helps reach the peak of your roof. You can use it to gently scrape the majority of the snow off of your roof, leaving just a little to melt off eventually. [3]
Get homeowners insurance for additional protection
Remember: To help protect your home from snow damage or any other damage, you should invest in the proper home insurance for your needs.
Sources:
[1] “15 Snow Shovel Tips To Keep Your Driveway And Walkway Clear,” Mark Wolfe and Lexie Pelchen, forbes.com/home-improvement/driveway/snow-shoveling-tips (Accessed Dec 2023).
[2] “10 Great Ice and Snow Removal Hacks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner,” Rachel Brougham, familyhandyman.com/list/10-great-snow-and-ice-removal-hacks (Accessed Nov 2023).
[3] “7 Tips for Cleaning Snow Off Your Roof,” Abby Miller, rescue-my-roof.com/blog/tips-for-cleaning-snow-off-roof/ (Accessed Dec 2023).
Disclaimer:
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