Winter snow can be beautiful, but it can also wreak havoc on your driveway and walkways if snow removal isn’t handled properly. Harsh weather and improper techniques can lead to cracks, ice buildup, and long-term damage to your surfaces. Here are the best snow removal tips to keep your driveway and walkways clear, safe, and protected all winter long.
1. Shovel Early and Often
Removing snow early prevents it from compacting or freezing, making it easier to clear.
- What to do:
- Shovel fresh snow before it turns into a hard, icy layer.
- Tackle snow removal during breaks in heavy snowfall to stay ahead of accumulation.
- Start with areas that receive heavy foot or vehicle traffic.
- Why it works: Regular removal minimizes strain on your surfaces and keeps walkways safe.
2. Use the Right Tools
Using the right snow removal equipment can prevent damage to your driveway and walkways.
- Best tools to use:
- A plastic snow shovel is lightweight and less likely to scratch surfaces than metal.
- A snow pusher is ideal for moving light snow over large areas.
- A snow blower can save time for larger areas, but adjust the settings to avoid scraping.
- What to avoid:
- Avoid metal-edged tools, which can scratch or chip your driveway.
- Be cautious with heavy equipment on fragile surfaces like brick or stamped concrete.
- Why it works: The right tools help clear snow effectively while protecting your surfaces from unnecessary wear and tear.
3. Apply Ice Melt Safely
Ice melt can make surfaces safer, but using it improperly can damage your driveway and walkways.
- What to do:
- Choose pet- and plant-safe ice melt or one specifically labeled for concrete and paved surfaces.
- Spread ice melt sparingly and evenly over slippery areas.
- Avoid rock salt (sodium chloride) on newer concrete surfaces, as it can cause cracking.
- Pro Tip: Opt for calcium magnesium acetate or calcium chloride, which are less corrosive than traditional salt products.
- Why it works: Proper ice melt use prevents ice buildup without causing damage to your surfaces or harming the environment.
4. Clear Snow Without Scraping
Scraping snow down to the bare surface can damage concrete, asphalt, and decorative finishes.
- How to protect surfaces:
- Leave a thin layer of snow when shoveling to avoid scraping.
- Use a snow blower with an adjustable height setting to prevent direct contact with the surface.
- For delicate surfaces, consider using a broom or plastic blade to gently remove snow.
- Why it works: Gentle removal techniques reduce the risk of scratches, cracks, and surface deterioration.
5. Avoid Using Hot Water
It may be tempting to pour hot water on icy areas, but this can do more harm than good.
- Why not to use hot water:
- Rapid freezing can create black ice, making walkways more dangerous.
- Freezing and thawing cycles can lead to cracks and weakened surfaces.
- What to do instead:
- Stick to ice melt or sand for traction, and remove the ice manually with a shovel.
- Why it works: Avoiding hot water prevents creating a slippery, hazardous surface and protects your driveway and walkways.
6. Protect Edges and Cracks
Edges and cracks in your driveway or walkways are vulnerable to snow and ice damage.
- How to protect them:
- Avoid pushing heavy snow piles to the edges, which can cause crumbling.
- Seal cracks before winter to prevent water from seeping in and freezing.
- Use a smaller shovel or lighter touch near the edges.
- Why it works: Protecting vulnerable areas prevents snow removal from causing further damage.
7. Use Sand or Kitty Litter for Traction
When dealing with icy spots, sand or kitty litter can improve grip without harming your driveway.
- How to use it:
- Spread a thin, even layer of sand or non-clumping kitty litter on icy patches.
- Focus on high-traffic areas like walkways, steps, and driveways.
- Why it works: Sand and kitty litter provide traction without the corrosive effects of salt-based products.
8. Keep Snow Piles Away from Driveways
Piling snow in the wrong areas can lead to drainage issues and refreezing.
- Where to pile snow:
- Direct snow away from the edges of your driveway and walkways.
- Avoid piling snow near your home’s foundation, where melting snow can cause water damage.
- Why it works: Proper snow placement prevents water runoff from refreezing and damaging surfaces.
9. Use a Roof Rake for Overhangs
Overhanging snow and ice from your roof can fall and damage your driveway or walkways.
- How to manage overhangs:
- Use a roof rake with an extendable handle to safely remove snow from eaves.
- Stand on the ground while clearing snow to avoid injury.
- Why it works: Clearing overhangs protects your walkways and driveways from falling snow and ice.
10. Plan for Post-Snow Maintenance
After snow removal, a few extra steps can keep your surfaces in great shape.
- What to do:
- Rinse away salt residue and de-icing chemicals on warmer days to prevent corrosion.
- Repair any visible cracks or chips with concrete or asphalt patch.
- Apply a concrete sealant before the next snowfall for added protection.
- Why it works: Post-snow maintenance preserves the integrity of your driveway and walkways for future seasons.
11. Use Heated Mats or Cables
For a long-term solution, heated systems can prevent snow and ice from accumulating.
- How they work:
- Heated mats can be placed on walkways or driveways for immediate snow melting.
- Installing heated cables under your driveway during construction ensures snow never accumulates.
- Why it works: Heated systems provide a low-maintenance way to keep surfaces clear and protected.
12. Shovel in the Right Direction
The way you shovel can impact the condition of your driveway and walkways.
- Best practices:
- Push snow in a straight line instead of dragging or scraping it across the surface.
- Avoid tossing snow back onto cleared areas to reduce additional melting and refreezing.
- Why it works: Proper shoveling techniques reduce unnecessary wear on your surfaces and keep them looking great.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Surfaces for the Long Haul
By following these snow removal tips, you can protect your driveway and walkways from winter damage while keeping them safe for you and your guests. Regular maintenance, the right tools, and mindful techniques will ensure your outdoor spaces stay in top shape through the cold months. Stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of winter without the hassle!
