Winter in Calgary, Alberta, can be a beautiful sight, but it also brings the daunting task of snow removal. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, keeping your property safe and accessible is crucial during the snowy season. Here are 10 snow removal tips in Calgary to tackle snow removal efficiently and effectively.
Table of Contents
1. Use the Right Snow Removal Tools
Snow removal in Calgary, known for its heavy snow, requires the right tools. A quality snow shovel is essential. Curved-blade shovels are best for pushing snow, while scoop-shaped shovels with sides are great for lifting and tossing snow.
In addition to shovels, other helpful tools include:
- Snow Blower: This is a great investment if you have a large driveway or walkway. It can quickly and efficiently remove snow, saving you time and effort.
- Ice Chopper: This tool is useful for breaking up thick ice that a shovel might not be able to handle.
- Ice Melt: As mentioned earlier, ice melt can help prevent ice formation on your walkways and driveways after you’ve shoveled.
- Snow Pusher: Different from a shovel, a snow pusher is designed to push the snow to the side of the walkway or driveway rather than lifting it.
Remember, using the right tools not only makes the job easier but also ensures that it’s done safely and effectively. This is one of the most important snow removal tips in Calgary.
2. Stay On Top of Snow Removal, Tip #2
Snow removal is not a one-time task, especially in places like Calgary, where snowfall is frequent during the winter months. The longer the snow is left untouched on your walkways and driveways, the more it compacts and sticks to the surface, making it harder to remove later on. This can also lead to the formation of ice, which can be dangerous for pedestrians and vehicles alike.
Regular snow removal, ideally after each snowfall, can prevent this from happening. It keeps the snow from building up and becoming too heavy to manage. Regular removal also reduces the risk of ice formation, as there is less snow that can melt and refreeze.
Moreover, staying on top of snow removal can make the task less daunting. Instead of having to remove a large amount of snow all at once, regular removal allows you to deal with a smaller amount each time. This can make the task more manageable, especially for those who are doing the removal by themselves.
In addition, regular snow removal can also help prevent damage to your property. Heavy snow can put a lot of pressure on your roof and other structures, which can lead to damage over time. By removing the snow regularly, you can reduce this risk.
So, make sure to stay on top of your snow removal tasks. Not only will it make your property safer and more accessible, but it can also save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. Remember, a little bit of prevention can go a long way when it comes to snow removal tips in Calgary.
3. Choose the Right Area to Focus Snow Removal Efforts Tip #3
When it comes to snow removal, it’s important to prioritize high-traffic surfaces like busy sidewalks or driveways. These areas are most likely to be used, and keeping them clear can prevent accidents. But what does this mean in practice?
Firstly, consider the areas that are used most frequently. This could be the driveway where you park your car, the front walkway to your house, or the sidewalk in front of your property. These are the areas where snow and ice can pose the most immediate danger, as they are used daily.
Next, think about the wider community. If you live in a neighborhood with a lot of foot traffic, it’s important to keep the sidewalks clear. This not only helps your neighbors but also postal workers, delivery drivers, and anyone else who might need to access your property.
Also, don’t forget about safety. Icy driveways and walkways can lead to slips and falls, which can cause serious injuries. By prioritizing these areas, you can help reduce the risk of accidents.
Finally, remember that snow removal isn’t just about convenience; it’s also a legal requirement in many places. In Calgary, for example, homeowners are required by law to clear snow from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours of a snowfall.
So, when the snow starts to fall, make sure you’re focusing your snow removal efforts in the right areas. It can make a big difference to both your own convenience and the safety of others.
4. Do NOT Substitute Shovelling with Ice Melt Tip #4
This is Probably one of the most overlooked Snow Removal Tips in Calgary While ice melt is a useful tool in your winter arsenal, it’s important to remember that it’s not a substitute for shoveling. Ice melt works by lowering the freezing point of water, helping to prevent ice formation on your walkways and driveways. However, it doesn’t have the same physical snow-removal capabilities as shoveling.
Shoveling removes the bulk of the snow, clearing the way for safe passage. Ice melt can then be used to treat the surface, preventing any residual moisture from freezing and turning into dangerous ice. So, remember: ice melt is a supplement to, not a replacement for, shoveling.
5. Not All Ice Melts Are Equal Tip #5
Different ice melts have varying effects due to their unique compositions. Some are eco-friendly, while others function effectively at lower temperatures. Choose the one that best aligns with your needs and local climate conditions.
6. Clear All Ice Tip #6
Ensuring all ice is removed from walkways and driveways is a crucial part of winter safety. Ice can often be more dangerous than snow due to its slippery nature and the fact that it can be harder to see, especially when it forms a thin layer on surfaces. This can lead to slips and falls, which can cause serious injuries.
Therefore, it’s important to be thorough in your ice removal efforts. Regularly check your property for ice formation, especially after a snowfall or a drop in temperature. Using ice melt products can help, but physical removal of ice is often necessary for the best results. Remember, a clear and safe path is the goal, so don’t leave any ice behind! ❄️
7. Know Calgary’s Snow and Ice Removal Bylaws Tip #7
In Calgary, the bylaws place the responsibility of snow and ice removal on the shoulders of home and business owners. Specifically, they are required to clear sidewalks bordering their property. This is a crucial part of maintaining safe and accessible walkways during the winter months.
Failure to comply with these bylaws can result in potential fines, so it’s important to be aware of your responsibilities. Regularly clearing your sidewalks not only keeps you in line with the law but also contributes to a safer community. So, make sure you’re familiar with Calgary’s snow and ice removal bylaws and stay on top of your snow removal tasks! ❄️
8. Be a Snow Angel Tip #8
Winter can be a challenging time, especially when it comes to snow removal. For some, such as the elderly or those with physical limitations, shoveling snow can be a difficult, if not impossible, task.
This is where you can step in and become a ‘Snow Angel’. Helping out your neighbors by shoveling their snow not only eases their burden, but it also contributes to the overall safety of your community. Clear sidewalks and driveways prevent slips and falls, making it safer for everyone to get around.
Being a Snow Angel isn’t just about the physical act of shoveling snow. It’s about fostering a sense of community, showing kindness, and looking out for one another. So, grab your shovel and lend a hand; your neighbors and your community will thank you! ❄️
9. Consider Professional Snow Removal Services with Landgraf Lawncare Tip #9
Snow removal can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with large areas or heavy snowfall. In such cases, it might be beneficial to consider hiring a professional snow removal service like Landgraf Lawncare.
Landgraf Lawncare, based in Calgary, Alberta, specializes in providing top-notch snow removal services. They have the necessary equipment and expertise to clear snow quickly and efficiently, ensuring your property is safe and accessible throughout the winter season.
Whether it’s a residential driveway or a commercial parking lot, Landgraf Lawncare can handle snow removal tasks of any size. Their team of professionals is trained to deal with the challenging winter conditions of Calgary, delivering reliable and timely service.
So, if you find yourself overwhelmed by the task of snow removal, remember that professional services like Landgraf Lawncare are just a call away. Let them take care of the heavy lifting so you can stay warm and safe this winter! ❄️
10. Prevent Slips and Falls
Efficient snow removal is crucial for preventing slips and falls, especially in Calgary, where winters can be particularly rigorous. Always prioritize safety when removing snow.
Remember, safety is paramount when it comes to snow removal. Always take care not to overexert yourself and to use the proper tools and techniques. Happy shoveling!
11. Keep Your Shovel Snow-Free with Cooking Spray, Oil, or Wax
Shoveling snow can be a time-consuming task, especially when snow sticks to your shovel. To make the job easier and more efficient, try coating your shovel with a lubricant.
Use Cooking Spray, Oil, or Wax: Applying a non-stick coating to your shovel can significantly reduce the amount of snow that clings to it. Here are a few options:1
- Cooking Spray: Spray a generous amount of non-stick cooking spray on both sides of the shovel blade. This creates a slick surface that helps snow slide off easily.
- Vegetable Oil: Spread a thin layer of vegetable oil over the shovel blade. This natural lubricant is effective and eco-friendly.
- Wax: Coat the shovel with a layer of car wax or paraffin wax. This method is particularly durable and can last through multiple uses.
Additional Tips:
- Reapply as Needed: Depending on the amount of snow and the duration of your shoveling session, you may need to reapply the lubricant periodically.
- Store Properly: After shoveling, wipe down the shovel to remove any remaining lubricant and snow. This helps maintain the effectiveness of the coating for future use.
- How cooking spray and socks can make shoveling snow easier
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Hi there, I just read your article on 10 essential snow removal tips and found it incredibly helpful, especially since Calgary winters can be quite challenging. I was wondering if you have any specific advice on how to deal with ice buildup on sidewalks that are shaded and don’t get much sunlight. Also, are there any environmentally friendly de-icing products you would recommend that are effective but won’t harm my lawn or plants come spring? Thanks for sharing your expertise!
I am enlightened to know proper snow removal is essential for safety and accessibility in Calgary winters. What’s the most effective snow removal tip you’ve learned over the years?
probably the most important tip that causes a lot of property damage issues is using the wrong ice melt on concrete surfaces causing fracturing of the concrete surface. but there’s so many that are helpful to just choose 1.