Top 11 Ice and Snow Removal Hacks for Your Home
The winter months bring joy and festivities. But, for homeowners, it also comes with a lot of work. Winter storms bring heavy snow and ice, which cause damage to your home if not removed properly. So, it is important to remove snow properly to protect your property from snow damage.
When it comes to ice and snow removal, there are a few challenges that homeowners need to be aware of. First and foremost, safety is a top concern. Snow and ice can create slippery conditions, leading to falls and other accidents.
Secondly, it’s important to remove snow and ice from driveways, walkways, and other outdoor surfaces in order to prevent damage. Finally, removing snow and ice from your roof is important to prevent ice accidents and other issues.
11 Tips to Remove Snow from Residential Property
We have put together a list of the top 11 ice and snow removal hacks for your home. These tips can help you keep your home safe and save you time and energy.
Use Table or Rock Salt
Pre-salting pathways are one of the oldest tricks to prepare your home for snowfall. Simply sprinkle rock salt or calcium chloride over the area that is expected to receive more snow, such as driveways, sidewalks, and parking areas. This preventive step makes snow and ice removal much easier because it prevents the formation of hard-packed snow or ice layers.
Spread Sand Over Slippery Areas
Use sand or kitty litter in the parking area to prevent slipping and falling accidents. Professional snow removal services companies use sand crystals to increase friction, which helps prevent vehicle tires from slipping.
Use Water and Rubbing Alcohol to Remove Ice
Another hack to de-ice snow and ice from your property is to make DIY de-icing spray. You can create a de-icer solution by mixing rubbing alcohol and water in a 2:1 ratio. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and apply it to the icy areas of your driveway and walkway. The ice will start melting, and now you can easily use a shovel or ice scraper to remove it.
But be sure to thoroughly rinse the area with water after you have removed the ice to prevent any slipping accidents.
Invest in a Good Shovel
Consider investing in a durable snow shovel that comes with a non-stick coating and strong handle to minimize strain on your back while shoveling. Start removing snow from your driveway and walkways because snow accumulates and hardens in this area quickly, and it becomes harder to remove snow then.
Use Cooking Oil Spray
If you have an old shovel that doesn’t have a non-stick coating, shoveling your driveway and sidewalk can be difficult. However, there is a hack that can make the job easier. Simply spray the shovel with cooking oil before using it.
This trick will help you move snow more quickly and prevent it from sticking to the shovel. After each use, be sure to wipe the shovel down properly to avoid making a mess.
Clear Your Gutters
When gutters and downspouts get clogged, they can cause extensive damage to your home. It’s essential to keep them clean and free of any debris to avoid any potential harm to your property.
When gutters are clogged, water can’t drain away from your home properly. This can cause ice dams on your roof, leading to water backing up and pouring into your home.
Before a winter storm hits, make sure your gutters are clear of leaves and debris. You should also make sure that the downspouts are clear and that they are draining water away from your home.
Invest in a Roof Rake
This tool is a must-have if you live in a region that gets a lot of snow. A roof rake is a tool with a flat, angled blade on one end that lets you remove snow from the ground.
Use a roof rake after every 6 inches of snowfall to prevent ice dams and roof damage. IIce dams can form when snow on the roof melts and then refreezes. causing water to back up under the shingles and leak inside your home. Look for a roof rake with a telescoping handle and wheels, which will make it easier to use.
Utilize Hot Water
If you have an ice-covered driveway, walkway, or sidewalk, you can use hot water to help melt the ice. But remember that hot water can refreeze, so it’s best to use this method when the temperature is above 20 degrees.
Fill a large container with boiling water and pour it over the ice, then use a snow shovel or ice scraper to break up and remove the ice.
Cover Your Driveway Before It Snows
If you don’t have any snow removal equipment, using a plastic tarp is the best idea to cover your sidewalks, walkways, and even your car and parking area when the snow is expected. This plastic helps make the snow removal process easier. Once the snow has stopped, simply remove the tarp for a clear path.
Install Heated Mats
If you have a lot of concrete surfaces to clear, heated mats could be a good investment. These mats are specifically designed to melt snow and ice.
Most heated mats are made from rubber and have wires inside to generate heat. They can be placed on steps, walkways, or even on a porch or deck. Some mats can be connected to cover long stretches, while others are designed for more compact areas.
Hire a Professional for Snow Removal
Above all, prioritize safety when removing ice and snow from your home. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion, and use caution when using tools or equipment in slippery conditions.
But, if you don’t have the time to do all the removing and shoveling tasks, consider hiring a professional landscaping and snow removal company to remove snow from your residential landscape efficiently. But before hiring, make sure the company is certified, has liability insurance, and meets all requirements as a registered business.
Conclusion
Ensure a safe and hazard-free winter season for your home with these tips and tricks. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, you can keep your home’s exterior clean and safe throughout the season.
Just remember, safety is the most important thing. Don’t go up on a ladder or on your roof if you don’t have to. And if you’re not comfortable doing any of these things, be sure to call in a professional.