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Preparing Your Home for Snow This Winter

You can never be too prepared when it comes to winter weather. Make sure to stock up on supplies before snow accumulation begins. Start with salt. Believe it or not, there are a variety of salts to choose from. Traditional rock salt effectively melts snow, but it isn't the most environmentally-friendly option. Some eco-friendly choices that melt snow and help combat re-icing include magnesium acetate and calcium chloride. Magnesium acetate is probably the least destructive to vegetation, but it's costly and not quite as effective. Calcium chloride is a little more expensive than rock salt, but you don't need to distribute as much. In fact, you only need a handful for every three square yards.

During the Snowfall
Once the snow starts, tune in to the weather reports. If meteorologists forecast a substantial snowfall, start shoveling your driveway and walkways once during the snowfall and once afterwards. This minimizes the chances of injuring your back lifting heavy amounts of snow. Look for shovels with an ergonomic design or choose a rolling snow shovel. Proper snow shoveling techniques start with your legs. Make sure to bend your knees when lifting and moving piles. It's also important to avoid twisting your torso with a heavy load. Instead, shift your whole body, including your stance. A snow blower is another great option when it comes to snow removal. The only downfall to some models is that they aren't great at removing ice. They're ideal for light, powdery snow, but sometimes it takes a heavy shovel or spade to break apart ice.

After the Snowfall
When the snow finally subsides, complete one final shoveling of walkways and driveways. Be certain that you aren't just pushing snow back into the street because as soon as city trucks plow your road, you'll end up with a mound of snow on your driveway once again. It's also important to lay a little extra salt to keep your concrete from re-icing. As always, make sure to replenish salt supplies and properly store equipment.

Alternatives to Traditional Snow Removal
For those who want to avoid shoveling for any number of reasons, consider alternative snowmelt systems like heated driveways. Heated driveways, although expensive, are great for areas that receive frequent snowfall. Basically, a combination of hot water and anti-freeze are forced through tubing under your driveway, walkway or patio. The heat radiated from this system quickly melts any ice and snow on the concrete or asphalt above it.

For more information on how you can better prepare for upcoming snow, ice and winter weather, contact your local agent today!

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