How to Avoid Common Snow Removal Mistakes

As you cozy up and watch the snowflakes fall outside your window, it’s easy to forget that those beautiful blankets of white can quickly become a chilly nightmare.

Every year, well-intentioned DIY snow battlers make simple mistakes that turn their driveways into slip-and-slides or snowy blockades. We’re here to help you avoid being one of those people.

We’ll walk you through the common mistakes you might be making while clearing snow and why you should avoid them. So, are you ready for us to “snow” you the ropes? Let’s dig in!

Common DIY Snow Removal Mistakes

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Tools

Snow removal, like any other task, requires using the right tools. We’ve seen people using whatever’s handy—a rusty old shovel or a broom. These are exactly inefficient.

Using the right shovel makes all the difference:

• Get one with an ergonomic design—a D-shaped handle. Ergonomic shovels are designed to reduce strain on your back by incorporating a curved handle or an adjustable shaft. They make shovelling easier, especially when dealing with heavy snow.
• It shouldn’t be more than 1.5 kg. We want a lightweight yet durable option.
• Push shovels have a wide, flat blade and are ideal for pushing snow across flat surfaces like driveways or sidewalks. They're better suited for lighter, fluffy snow and work efficiently for large areas.

If you have a larger yard, you should definitely invest in a snow blower. The blower can turn this back-breaking chore into a walk in the park.

Mistake 2: Improper Timing (Shovelling too soon or too late)

Timing is everything when it comes to snow removal. Shoveling too soon, especially during a prolonged snowfall, can mean double the work as snow continues to accumulate.

Waiting too long, however, might result in a compacted, icy mess that's even harder to clear. The best strategy is to wait until the snowfall lessens but before the snow has a chance to settle and harden.

For those early morning snowfalls, clearing paths before daily activities begin can prevent compacting from foot traffic. So, when you start removing the snow, it’ll take less effort and be more effective.

Mistake 3: Incorrect Snow Piling

Where you pile the snow can be just as important as how you remove it. Piling snow in the wrong places can lead to blocked driveways, icy patches, or even damage to your property's foundation when it melts.

Don’t dump snow near building foundations or block sidewalks and driveways. Also, consider the melt by ensuring that piles are situated where melting snow won't refreeze on walking paths or driveways, creating hazardous ice.

Mistake 4: Shovelling Too Much at Once

Trying to shovel too much snow at once is a common pitfall we see, particularly for those who are eager to clear their driveways quickly and get on with their day. Overloading your shovel can lead to excessive strain on your back, shoulders, and arms. It’s best to use a smaller shovel or fill it only partially to keep the weight manageable. This might seem slower, but it significantly reduces the risk of injury and fatigue.

Mistake 5: Forgetting to Clear the Ice

Removing snow is a priority, but failing to address the ice underneath can turn your driveway into a skating rink. Ice not only poses a serious slip hazard but also can cause long-term damage to surfaces if left unchecked.

After shovelling, apply a de-icing agent to break down the ice layer. Choose an environmentally friendly product to prevent damage to your lawn and local waterways. By doing this, you keep your walkways and driveways safe and accessible throughout the winter.

Mistake 6: Neglecting Safety Measures

You might think: hey, what’s the worst that could happen; it’s just snow, after all. Well, snow removal can be more hazardous than it appears. Don’t overlook basic safety measures like wearing appropriate footwear for better traction or using gloves with a good grip.

Dress in layers to manage body heat effectively during the exertion. Additionally, take breaks and keep hydrated during long stretches of shovelling to avoid overexertion, hypothermia, or heart strain in colder temperatures.

Mistake 7: Using Improper Clearing Technique

An incorrect technique not only makes the job harder but also increases the risk of injury. The right way involves pushing snow rather than lifting it when possible, which conserves energy and reduces strain on your body.

When lifting is necessary, bend at the knees and use your leg strength, keeping your back straight and the shovel close to your body. Also, avoid twisting your torso to toss snow. Instead, walk it to the pile. By doing this, you work smarter, not harder.

Mistake 8: Attempting to Melt Snow with Hot Water

It might seem intuitive to use hot water to melt snow quickly, but this is a mistake that can backfire. Pouring hot water on snow will likely lead to immediate melting, but it’ll quickly refreeze as temperatures drop. This will create even more hazardous ice patches.

The cycle of melting and refreezing complicates the removal process and increases the risk of slips and falls. So, go for environmentally safe melting agents to prevent re-freezing and ensure safer walkways.

Mistake 9: Forgetting to Check the Weather Forecast

Ignoring weather forecasts when planning your snow removal is like going scuba diving without oxygen. It’s optimistic but terribly ill-advised! Keep an eye on the weather to manage snow well. You don’t want to shovel during a snowstorm only for your hard work to be buried under new snow hours later.

Additionally, understanding the timing and intensity of a storm can help you plan the best approach, whether it’s pre-treating surfaces or adjusting the timing of your shovelling to avoid double the effort.

Mistake 10: Ignoring Local Snow Disposal Regulations

Municipalities have specific regulations governing where and how you can dispose of snow. For example, in Alberta, it's prohibited to push snow from your property onto the street or sidewalk, as it can obstruct public pathways and create safety hazards. Residents must dispose of snow on their own property or designated snow storage sites.

Violating these guidelines can lead to fines and even create hazards for pedestrians and motorists.

Why You Need Professional Snow Removal Services

DIY snow removal isn’t for everyone, and you should know what you’re up against. Sometimes, professional snow removal services may be the right call. It isn't just about saving your back from the Herculean effort of shovelling; it’s about ensuring the job is done swiftly and safely.

Chill Out, Green Drop’s Got This

Leave your snow shovel in the shed this winter, and let us handle the heavy lifting with professional snow removal services. Here’s what you get when you book Green Drop:

• Snow removal within 24 hours, so no one gets a fine
• Flat rate, monthly payments
• Use of proper IceMelt products that do not damage turf or property
• 24-hour guarantee and unlimited visits during the snow season when you

Serving Calgary, Regina, Red Deer, Saskatoon, and Edmonton, we’re just a click away. Don’t get left out in the cold!