As winter arrives and snow starts piling up, removing it becomes a big task. Whether it’s a light or heavy snowfall, getting rid of it safely and efficiently is essential for keeping your surroundings accessible and safe.
To help you handle snow removal in Toronto like a pro, we’ve put together 10 Best Snow Removal Tips. This guide will give you everything you need to clear away snow quickly and safely.
What is Snow Removal?
Snow removal is performed by clearing snow from driveways, walkways, and other surfaces to keep them safe and accessible. It uses different methods and tools to manage snow buildup effectively.
Clearing snow is important for several reasons. It prevents slip-and-fall accidents, maintains access to properties, and prevents damage to surfaces caused by heavy snow buildup.
10 Best Snow Removal Tips
1. Use cooking spray
Shoveling snow can be strenuous, especially when dealing with heavy, wet snow. Applying cooking oil to your shovel can make the task easier by preventing snow from sticking. Remember to wipe down the shovel before storing it to avoid a mess.
2. Set a schedule to remove snow
Waiting for snowfall to cease before clearing it can exacerbate the task. Instead, set a schedule to shovel lightly every one to two hours, adjusting based on the duration of the snowfall.
3. Cover slippery areas with sand
Scatter sand over slippery areas to provide additional traction while shoveling. The rough texture helps prevent slips and falls as you break through the snow and ice.
4. Make your ice melt
Without commercial ice melts, create a homemade substitute by mixing dish soap, rubbing alcohol, and water. Apply the mixture where needed to melt ice effectively.
5. Make shoveling a little more comfortable
Invest in an ergonomic shovel to minimize strain on your back while shoveling. These shovels may not make the task easier, but they can alleviate discomfort afterward.
6. Before it snows, cover your driveway
- If you don’t have a shovel nearby or if your electric snow blower isn’t functioning, consider laying a plastic tarp over exposed sidewalks, walkways, and even your car (car snow removal tools could also be helpful) when snow is expected.
- Pull the tarp, and you’ll find a clear path when the flurries stop.
- Consider looking at snow melt mats and heaters that cover sidewalks and driveways before the storm for an improved version.
7. Use your leaf blower to get rid of snow
Don’t take your leaf blower out for the season; use it to move light snow to your advantage! Leaf blowers work very well for the removal of light and fluffy snow.
8. Smart snow blowing
A snowblower can do the job of a covered drive fast, but you need to make sure it is done properly.
It’s best to begin in the middle and plow snow into one edge of your driveway. Make a U-turn and go in the opposite direction, rotating the snow shovel backward throughout. That way, you don’t have to adjust the parachute as often, and you don’t have to use a second pass.
9. Use a wet and dry vacuum for snow removal
You could use your shop vacuum to collect the snow and relocate it. But we’re recommending that your house be hooked up to the vacuum exhaust system and that you turn it on as a blower. All you must do is point at the snow and blow it away.
10. Use a shovel attachment
Put an ice at shovel back saver attachment on your list of the finest tools. Many products on the market enable you to enhance your favorite shovel by attaching an interchangeable handle wherever you prefer, providing a better grip for clearing black ice. This helps reduce strain on the back.
Snow Shoveling Safety Tips
According to the American Heart Association, shoveling isn’t just a chore; it can trigger heart attacks. The sudden strain, especially after months of inactivity, stresses the heart. Even pushing a heavy snow blower poses risks.
At Kenny Kim Landscaping, we also take safety seriously, especially when shoveling. As such, we echo the National Safety Council advice on safe shoveling practices.
- Avoid shoveling right after eating or while smoking.
- Before shoveling, warm up your muscles with light exercises.
- Stick to shoveling fresh, powdery snow as it’s lighter.
- Whenever you can, shove the snow instead of lifting it.
- Opt for a smaller shovel or only fill it partially if lifting is necessary.
- Lift using your legs, not your back, to avoid injury.
- Shoveling snow can be physically demanding, so take frequent breaks to rest and avoid overexertion.
- Be aware of heart disease symptoms. Call 911 immediately if you experience any; every second is crucial.
- Dress appropriately. Be dressed in layers of clothing to stay warm and dry, and remember to wear gloves and a hat to protect against frostbite.
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after shoveling to stay hydrated, even in cold weather.
Why is Snow Removal Safety Important?
Aside from stiff muscles and sore muscles, heart attacks and death are possible from snowplow accidents, making snowplow safety even greater.
Between 1991 and 2006, approximately 120,000 injuries were diagnosed by snow, and 6.7% experienced cardiac or more snow-related emergency room visits.
Studies also show that more than a hundred people die annually due to snow shooting. Do not attempt shoveling unless a doctor has diagnosed your health condition.
Key Takeaway
Snow and ice present risks not only to yourself but also to others. As a property owner, it’s your duty to make reasonable efforts to keep public walkways surrounding your property free from snow and ice. Applying an anti-icing product beforehand can facilitate the removal process.
Stocking up on ice melt ahead of time is advisable, as supplies may run low during extended winters. Store unused ice melts safely away from children and pets in a sealed container. Note that rock salt can cause damage to brick, stone, asphalt, and concrete walkways.
Snow removal services in toronto
Property owners are well aware of the potential damage ice and snow can inflict on their homes if left unattended during winter. That’s why Kenny Kim Landscaping offers comprehensive snow removal services across North York and Toronto. Our goal is to make your home safe and your lawn care to make it beautiful during winter and throughout the year.
Contact us today for a complimentary estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a snow removal cost in Toronto?
The usual cost for removing snow from residential areas ranges from $250 to $500 per month. This includes clearing snow from your driveway, walkways, and sidewalk. Pricing for commercial properties can vary a lot.
What time should I start shoveling?
Start shoveling snow on warm days! In most places, the warmest hours of the day in winter are around an additional hour before midnight. That may mean the surface of clear snow has warmed, so the snow won’t stick; the snow may still be on the ground.