In Calgary, snow removal comes with the territory. During the winter months, we get constant snowfall, and it’s important that you stay on top of your winter property maintenance to maintain safety and accessibility.
While you may be tempted to overlook snow removal if only a light dusting of the white stuff has fallen, you could unwittingly be creating problems that may become difficult to deal with. Leaving even light snow in place increases the chances of ice forming, which can cause slips and falls. Shovel it promptly, and sprinkle salt on your property’s paved surfaces to help you keep your footing.
Heavy snowfall is trickier to deal with, and shoveling it can be a pain. Fortunately, you have a number of options available to you if you want to reduce the labour involved with shovelling large amounts of snow.
The most common Calgary snow removal strategy is to deal with heavy snowfall by using a snow blower. If you don’t already own a snow blower and are looking to buy one, here are a few points to keep in mind as you shop:
- Know the difference between single-stage and dual-stage snow blowers. Single-stage snow blowers are relatively light and easy to handle. However, they have limitations; they cannot be used on gravel surfaces, and they won’t help you get rid of any ice which has accumulated beneath the snow.
- Use a dual-stage snow blower if you have a bigger driveway, or if you live in an open area where snow drifting commonly occurs. These snow blowers have two major components: an auger that breaks down ice and snow, and an impeller that ejects it.
If you own a single-stage snow blower and need to deal with ice buildup, there are chemical compounds available which can help you. De-icing and anti-icing products work to break down frozen water and prevent it from forming on paved or gravel surfaces. These products are widely available through home improvement retailers, and are very easy to use. However, be sure to read all instructions carefully before you purchase a de-icing or anti-icing product. Not all of them are approved for use on all surfaces, and if you use the wrong type, you could damage your pavement and risk chemical contamination.
One of the most effective ways to control snowfall is to use snow melting equipment. While these machines are generally reserved for commercial properties, there are smaller systems designed specifically for residential use. There are three major types of snow melters:
Electric. These systems consist of a network of cables, buried beneath surfaces to spread heat and melt snow as it falls. If you’re considering repaving your driveway, you can have one installed in advance of the pavement replacement and enjoy the convenience they offer.
Hydronic. These snow removal systems use pipes carrying warm fluids to melt snow. Again, installation must be completed before a surface is paved.
Infrared. This is the best option if you don’t want to alter your existing driveway. Infrared snow removal systems target specific areas with powerful pole-mounted quartz lamps that zero in on snow and make melting it fast and easy.
At Mirage Landscaping, we offer professional and affordable snow removal services, so if you would rather not deal with snowfall this winter, leave the job to us. We’re a leading Calgary snow removal and landscaping company, offering a complete range of services to help you maintain your property’s beauty and enhance its value. Please contact us to learn more.
