Snow removal is one chore every property owner must do. Most towns and municipalities have ordinances that require property owners to keep public walkways clear. Use the best snow removal tips as you remove snow this winter.
Sidewalk
You can use either a shovel or a snow blower to clear your sidewalks. A plastic, metal or electric shovel works great if you have short sidewalks or live in an area that receives less than four inches of snow each year. Otherwise, consider buying a snow blower.
An electric snow blower is virtually maintenance-free. It clears a path that's 14 to 18 inches wide and is ideal if you receive up to 12 inches of snow annually.
Invest in a gas-powered snow blower if you have a large area to clear or receive up to 40 inches of snow annually. A single-stage snow blower clears a path that's 18 to 22 inches wide and is fairly easy to handle.
You'll want a double-staged snow blower if the snowfall exceeds 40 inches a year or you have more than 150 feet of sidewalk to clear. It clears a 24-to-30-inch path, and certain models can handle snow that's 20 inches deep.
Steps
Packed snow and ice on steps makes them treacherous. Use a shovel or broom to clear them. You can also spread a thin layer of ice melting agent on your steps.
- Sodium chloride (rock salt) works best when the temperatures are above 25 degrees.
- Calcium chloride works in below-zero temperatures but can leave a slippery residue on your steps.
- Calcium magnesium acetate is expensive but is salt-free, biodegradable and less corrosive than salt on concrete.
Roof
You typically don't have to remove snow from your home's roof unless you receive a heavy, wet snowfall. Six inches of wet snow weighs the equivalent of 38 inches of dry snow and can cause roof damage. When your home's interior and closet doors begin to stick or you see drywall or plastic cracks around them, your roof is beginning to buckle under the snow's weight.
If you can reach the roof with your long-handled snow rake with a telescoping handle and built-in rollers, go ahead and do the job yourself. Otherwise, hire a licensed and insured professional. They own the extension ladders, anchor harnesses and other specialty tools needed to climb onto your roof and remove snow safely.
Proper Technique
Any time you remove snow, dress in layers, bend with your knees and pace yourself.
The next time it snows, use these snow removal tips as you clear your property. In the meantime, make sure your homeowner's insurance is updated and will cover any snow-related damages or injuries.