Posted on November 16th, 2023.

As the winter season sets in, the arrival of snow in Milwaukee and its surrounding areas brings with it the need for effective snow removal techniques. 

Keeping your driveway and pathways safe and clear during this time is essential. 

In this blog post, we'll provide you with eight valuable snow removal tips and techniques to help you maintain a safe and hazard-free environment. 

These tips will not only make your snow removal efforts more manageable but also help you avoid common pitfalls associated with snow clearing. 

Whether you handle the task yourself or seek professional assistance, these tips will ensure your winter is worry-free.

Why Clearing Your Driveway from Snow Matters

As winter blankets Milwaukee and the surrounding areas in a layer of snow, the need to clear your driveway becomes paramount. Snow removal is not just a chore; it's a vital practice that ensures the safety and functionality of your property. 

Here are some compelling reasons why clearing your driveway from snow matters:

• Safety: A snow-covered driveway can be treacherous, leading to slips, falls, and accidents. By keeping it clear, you create a safer environment for yourself, your family, and visitors.
• Accessibility: A clear driveway allows you to access your home effortlessly. Whether it's coming and going for work or running errands, a snow-free driveway ensures you can move freely.
• Preventing Damage: Accumulated snow can damage your driveway over time. The freeze-thaw cycle can lead to cracks and deterioration, necessitating costly repairs.
• Compliance: Some municipalities have regulations requiring property owners to clear snow and ice from their sidewalks and driveways. Non-compliance can result in fines.
• Convenience: An uncleared driveway can become a hindrance when you need to leave in a hurry. Clearing it promptly ensures you won't be delayed.
• Preventing Ice Buildup: Removing snow promptly prevents the formation of ice, which can be even more challenging to deal with.

In the following section, we'll delve into practical snow removal tips and techniques to help you keep your driveway safe and free of snow and ice.

8 Essential Tips for a Safe Driveway

Winter's arrival may paint a picturesque scene, but it also brings the challenge of keeping your driveway clear and safe. The accumulation of snow and ice can pose significant hazards. However, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can master the art of snow removal. Next, we'll share eight essential snow removal tips that will help you maintain a safe and hazard-free driveway throughout the winter season. Let's dive in and make your winter months worry-free.

1. Start Early and Stay Ahead

One of the most effective snow removal techniques is to start early and stay ahead of the snowfall. Waiting until the snow has accumulated significantly can make the task much more challenging. Begin clearing your driveway when there's a light covering of snow to prevent it from compacting and becoming harder to remove.

2. Invest in Quality Snow Removal Tools

Having the right tools for the job can make a world of difference. Invest in a reliable snow shovel or snow blower to make the task more manageable. Snow blowers, in particular, are efficient for clearing larger areas quickly.

3. Clear Snow in Layers

When using a snow shovel, clear the snow in layers rather than trying to remove it all at once. This approach is less physically demanding and ensures that you can clear the snow effectively. Shovel off the top layer, then remove the bottom layer.

4. Use Salt Wisely

While salt can be a helpful tool in preventing slips and falls on your driveway, it's essential to use it wisely. Spread salt sparingly to avoid disturbing the soil's chemical balance that some plants and grass are sensitive to. Additionally, be cautious about salt tracking through your house, potentially damaging carpet or hardwood floors. At Erik's Helping Hands, we offer the flexibility to lightly salt or skip salting based on your preferences.

5. Dress Warmly and Safely

Snow removal in cold weather can be physically demanding and stressful on your heart. Dress warmly in layers to stay protected from the cold. It's also crucial to wear slip-resistant boots and take regular breaks to prevent overexertion.

6. Clear Walkways and Pathways

Don't forget to clear walkways and pathways in addition to your driveway. Keeping these areas free of snow and ice is essential for the safety of anyone visiting your property, including mail carriers and guests.

7. Be Mindful of Snow Placement

When shoveling or using a snow blower, be mindful of where you're placing the snow. Piling it too close to your home's foundation or on top of shrubs and plants can cause damage. Aim to disperse the snow away from these areas.

8. Consider Professional Snow Removal

While many homeowners choose to handle snow removal themselves, it's essential to recognize the challenges of DIY snow removal. Two significant issues are often overlooked:

• Hidden Costs of Small Engine Maintenance: Maintaining small engine snow removal equipment can be costly and time-consuming. From regular oil changes to repairs, the expenses can add up. Hiring a professional snow removal service like Erik's Helping Hands can eliminate these hidden costs and save you time.
• Safety Concerns: Snow removal in cold weather can be physically demanding and stressful on your heart, especially for older individuals or those with pre-existing health conditions like high blood pressure. Hiring a professional with the right equipment, such as a snow blower, can be a safer and more convenient option.

Related: 5 Types of Handyman Services You Should Know About

Wrapping Up

As winter's grip tightens in Milwaukee and the surrounding areas, mastering the art of snow removal becomes crucial for the safety and functionality of your property. We've shared eight essential snow removal tips to help you keep your driveway clear and hazard-free. Whether you choose to tackle the task yourself or seek professional assistance, these tips will ensure you're well-prepared to face the challenges of winter weather.

At Erik's Helping Hands, we understand the importance of a safe and clear driveway during the winter season. Our professional snow removal services are designed to provide you with peace of mind and convenience. We create a snow route list each year and proactively reach out to our clients when snowfall is expected. You can simply let us know if you'd like to be included in the day's snow removal.

Don't let the snow pile up and create hazards on your property. Reach out to us today to learn more about our snow removal services and how we can help you maintain a safe and clear driveway all winter long. Contact us at [email protected] to discuss your snow removal needs. Let Erik's Helping Hands take care of your winter worries so you can enjoy the season without concerns about snow-covered driveways.