DIY 101: How to Remove Snow Like a Pro

1. Driveway Snow Removal

• Tools You’ll Need:

  • A heavy-duty snow shovel for manual clearing.
  • A two-stage snow blower for larger or steep driveways.
  • A snow plow attachment for a tractor if you own a large property.

• Steps:

  1. Start at the center of the driveway, clearing snow outward in sections to keep the middle free for vehicle movement.
  2. Use a zigzag pattern with a snow blower to ensure even coverage and avoid missing spots. Overlap each pass slightly to prevent snow lines.
  3. Clear the driveway edges thoroughly to avoid creating narrowing snowbanks after repeated snowfalls.
  4. After clearing, spread a layer of de-icer, such as magnesium chloride, to prevent residual ice formation and improve traction.

• Special Tip: For driveways over 50 feet or steep inclines, consider investing in a snow removal tractor. It reduces effort and prevents potential back injuries from repetitive shoveling.

2. Sidewalk and Pathway Snow Removal

• Tools You’ll Need:

  • A compact snow blower for wide paths.
  • A lightweight, ergonomic shovel for detailed work.
  • Heated mats for snow melting in high-traffic zones.

• Steps:

  1. Clear a pathway at least 36 inches wide to allow for wheelchairs and strollers. Wider paths are ideal for areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
  2. Shovel or blow snow away from the path rather than piling it on the sides, which can cause it to slide back into the walking area.
  3. Spread de-icer or sand immediately after clearing to prevent slipping hazards and reduce ice formation.

• Special Tip: Install heated mats along commonly used walkways or stairs. These mats actively melt snow and ice, reducing the need for manual labor and keeping surfaces safe in real-time.

3. Roof Snow Removal

• Tools You’ll Need:

  • A roof rake with an extendable handle to reach without climbing.
  • A telescoping brush for soft snow removal.
  • Snow guards to direct melting water and prevent ice buildup.

• Steps:

  1. Stand on the ground and use a roof rake to pull snow downward gently. Always start from the eaves (edges) and work inward to avoid overloading the gutters.
  2. Clear snow around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure proper ventilation and drainage.
  3. Avoid climbing on the roof, especially during icy or snowy conditions, as this poses a significant safety risk.

• Special Tip: For steep roofs or properties with high snow accumulation, hire professionals to ensure proper removal without damaging roofing materials or risking personal safety.

4. Removing Snow from a Car

• Tools You’ll Need:

  • A snow brush with soft bristles for delicate surfaces.
  • An ice scraper for windows and mirrors.
  • A car-specific de-icing spray for locks and windshields.

• Steps:

  1. Begin by clearing snow from the roof to prevent it from sliding onto cleared areas while driving.

     • Remove large snow blocks by hand if the snow is thick.
     • Use a snow broom wrapped with microfiber towels to gently scrub remaining snow, avoiding scratches on the paint.
     • Finish by using a snow blower to clear any loose snow.

  2. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove snow from windows, mirrors, and wipers without causing scratches.

  3. Remove frost or ice from windows with an ice scraper, starting at the edges and working inward.

  4. Check and clear snow from wheel wells and around tires to prevent freezing and ensure better maneuverability.

• Special Tip: Use a windshield cover or tarp to shield your car overnight. It saves time by preventing snow accumulation on key areas like the windshield and roof.

5. Ice Removal and Prevention

• Tools You’ll Need:

  • An ice chopper for thick or stubborn ice.
  • Eco-friendly de-icing salts like calcium magnesium acetate.
  • Sand or gravel for immediate traction.

• Steps:

  1. Use an ice chopper to break up thick ice, focusing on edges first to loosen the bond.
  2. Spread de-icing salt evenly across icy areas, giving it time to work before clearing any remaining chunks.
  3. Add sand or gravel to areas with heavy traffic for instant traction while de-icing products take effect.

• Special Tip: Apply de-icer before freezing temperatures set in to prevent ice formation entirely. For environmentally sensitive areas, opt for magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate.

6. Special Scenarios

Unique snow removal needs require specialized techniques to avoid damage or improve efficiency.

• Solar Panel Snow Removal: Use soft-bristled tools to gently clear snow, ensuring you don’t scratch or damage the panels. Avoid using heat or sharp tools, which could compromise the panels’ functionality.
• Snow from Narrow Areas: Compact spaces, such as garden edges or between parked cars, benefit from small tools like snow brooms or mini shovels for precision.
• Eco-Friendly De-Icing: Replace traditional rock salt with calcium magnesium acetate to protect plants, pets, and groundwater. Sand is another safe alternative that provides grip without environmental harm.

By choosing the right tools and following these detailed techniques, you’ll handle snow removal effectively while minimizing effort and safety risks.