Essential Tips For Preparing Your Driveway For Snow

Winter is on its way, and with it comes the task of keeping our driveways clear from snow. If you’ve ever struggled with a snow covered driveway, you know it’s no small feat to keep it clean and safe. But don’t worry! We’ve gathered some simple and effective tips to help you prepare your driveway for snow removal. Let’s learn how to make snow removal easier and save some money too. Get ready to tackle the snow like a pro!

Before Snow Arrives

Getting your driveway ready before the snow hits is like preparing for a big game, you want to make sure everything is in top shape to handle the challenge. Here are a couple of steps you can take:

Repair Cracks in the Driveway

Start by taking a good look at your driveway. Are there any cracks? Even small ones can turn into big problems when water gets in and freezes, causing them to grow bigger and possibly damage your driveway even more. To prevent this, seal those cracks before the winter starts. This not only keeps your driveway looking good but also makes it easier to clear the snow later.

Pre-emptive Deicing

Have you ever noticed how ice sticks to the ground, making it tough to scrape off? To avoid this, sprinkle some salt or another deicing agent on your driveway before the snow begins to fall. Snow removal services recommend this trick because it stops ice from forming a strong bond with your driveway. 

This means when it’s time to shovel, the ice won’t stick as much, making your job quicker and much easier. Plus, it’s not a lot of work but can save you a ton of effort later on.

Ensure Proper Drainage

Make sure your driveway’s water drains properly before it starts to snow. Poor drainage is indicated by puddles that take a long time to dry up. In the winter, standing water may freeze and turn into ice patches that might be unsafe to drive or walk on, which can be a major issue. 

Moreover, it might damage your driveway’s concrete or asphalt surface. Make sure that any drainage issues are resolved before winter arrives to avoid these concerns. This may entail cleaning up drainage channels or changing the slope of your driveway. 

Install a Snow-Sliding Driveway Cover

Another smart way to prepare is with a driveway cover. This is not just any cover; rather, it’s one made of materials like canvas or polyurethane, which is intended to withstand heavy snowfall. You cover your driveway before the snowfall. The best part? Snow hits the cover rather than your driveway directly. 

When you remove the cover, there will be less shovelling as a large amount of snow comes off with it. To hold the cover in place throughout the storm, make sure the edges are secured with weights or stakes. This easy method might help you save time and effort while removing snow from your driveway. 

Prepare Snow Removal Equipment

Get your snow removal tools ready ahead of time, before the first flake falls. Check over you snow blower to make sure it is in proper working condition. Try to give it a go and check if its in need of any maintenance or fuel. Inspect your shovels for any damage or cracks and repair as necessary. 

Also, include whatever other safety equipment you may have – goggles, boots, gloves etc. To ensure you have these tools ready to go the moment that snow starts piling up, keep them in an easy-to-access place.

Once the Snow Has Arrived

Now, let’s talk about what to do once your driveway is blanketed in snow.

Efficient Snow Removal Techniques

Dealing with a snowy driveway requires the right approach and tools. If you have a lot of snow to handle, a snow blower is your best friend. It’s important to set the right speed on your snow blower too fast, and you might end up throwing snow outside the area you’re clearing, making your job harder. 

On the other hand, using a snow shovel might require more effort but gives you control over where you pile the snow. Whether you shovel during the snowfall or wait until it’s over, try to clear the snow in stages. Removing a few inches at a time prevents it from compacting and icing over, which makes your work easier and your driveway safer.

Clearing Vehicles and Obstacles

Before the snowfall starts, landscaping company Toronto recommends arranging your vehicles in a straight line down your driveway. This helps by limiting the locations where snow may gather, making snow removal easier later. Keeping automobiles properly lined up also guarantees that when you remove the snow, you will not have to go past randomly parked vehicles, saving you time and work. 

Apply Additional Salt or Sand

Once you’ve used your snowblower or shovel to clear the snow, there might still be some icy patches left on your driveway. To handle these, sprinkle some rock salt over the ice. The salt lowers the freezing point of water, which helps to melt the ice more quickly and prevents new ice from forming. In extremely icy conditions, spreading sand on your driveway can also be very helpful. 

Sand doesn’t melt the ice, but it does provide extra traction underfoot, reducing the risk of slips and falls. This is especially important on walkways and in areas that get a lot of foot traffic.

Regular Maintenance

Winter can be unpredictable, so it’s important to keep an eye on your driveway throughout the season. Regularly check for new snowfall and icy patches. Reapply deicing products like salt or sand whenever you see ice starting to form again. Clearing snow as soon as it falls ensures that it doesn’t harden into ice, making it much easier to manage and keeping your driveway safe for everyone.

Professional Snow Removal Services

Even with the best efforts, sometimes the snow can be overwhelming, or you might just need a helping hand. This is where professional snow removal services come in handy. They have years of experience and specialize in both residential and commercial properties. 

Their team is equipped to handle any snow situation, ensuring your driveway and paths are clear and safe throughout the winter months. However, keep in mind that are several factors before choosing the right commercial snow removal company. Be mindful and make the right decision. 

Wrap Up!  

By preparing early and maintaining your driveway regularly, you can keep it functional and safe during the winter. Whether you decide to manage snow removal on your own or opt for professional services, the key is to stay proactive. This way, you minimize the impact of winter weather and keep your driveway in good condition.

Ready to keep your driveway clear and safe this winter? Contact Elm Landscaping today for your free, no-obligation snow removal estimate and experience the best in eco-friendly, professional service!