What's the Best Way to Remove Snow?

When the snow starts piling up in Vermont, keeping walkways, driveways, and cars cleared becomes a necessity. Though dreaded by many, removing snow is an inevitable winter task for Vermont homeowners. Shoveling by hand may provide some exercise, but it can also be taxing. Snowblowers offer quicker driveway clearing, yet require equipment costs and maintenance. Calling a professional snow plow service guarantees relief from the job, but comes with a price tag. 

With Vermont's long winters, there are advantages and disadvantages to these main snow removal techniques that each of us weigh based on our needs and preferences, so choose whatever option allows you to enjoy a nice hot cup of cocoa by the fire when the work is done!

Shoveling

Vermonters are no strangers to snow, and shoveling is often a necessary task to keep walkways and driveways clear after winter storms. Our mountainous terrain and cold temperatures mean substantial snowfalls accumulate, sometimes over a foot during a single storm. Grabbing a shovel and clearing snow by hand is a reliable, low-cost way many Vermont homeowners and renters keep their properties accessible and safe during the long winter months. 

Vermonters have learned a few tricks over the years to make shoveling easier, like coating shovels with non-stick spray to prevent snow from sticking, angling blades to slice into packed snow, wearing shoes with good traction to avoid slips, and taking breaks inside every 20-30 minutes to warm up and prevent strain or overexertion.

It may require some effort, but shoveling out a path, unburying your car, and clearing space to pile more snow is great exercise. Just be sure to pace yourself, lift with your legs, and dress warmly in layers when heading out to shovel.

Snowblowing

If you have a long driveway or consistently receive heavy snow in your area, consider opting for snowblowing or plowing.

While still physically demanding, using a snowblower requires less brute force than manual shoveling. Snowblowers propel snow forward with power, plowing through piled-up drifts and propelling it farther out of the way. This allows you to relocate snow off the sides of driveways, preventing tall banks from accumulating.

However, snowblowing has its hazards to consider. Rocks, debris, and ice chunks can be hurled at high speeds by the snowblower blades, posing risks to the operator and surroundings. These objects can also damage the snowblower parts, so be careful of hard objects hidden in the snow.

Also keep in mind that snowblowers are most practical in heavy snow of 3 inches or more. The machine may not be as efficient for lighter dustings compared to simply grabbing a shovel. 

If you decide to invest in a snowblower, here are a few tips for how you should maintain it:

• Once per season, remove the wheels and grease the axle shafts.
• Check on the tire pressure to make sure you’re maintaining the proper level.
• After every use, run the snowblower for a few minutes to clear out snow, dirt, or other items. This will help it stay in better condition for a longer period of time.
• Change the oil on your snowblower once per season (or as needed based on your use).
• At the end of the season, empty your gas tank. At the beginning of the next season, use fresh gas to avoid corrosion and clogging. 

Plowing

Plowing is the best option to preserve your energy (and your back). Professional snow plowers have the proper equipment, saving you time while delivering the results you’re looking for. This is especially convenient for long driveways.

On the other hand, hiring a professional snow plower is not as cost effective as shoveling or snowblowing. You also don’t have control over their techniques, and you have to rely on someone else’s schedule to remove your snow. 

If you’re looking to have your driveway professionally plowed, talk to your neighbors. It’s common for one person to plow several driveways in one neighborhood, and you will be able to learn about prices and snow removal frequency. Keep in mind that pricing is often based on the length of your driveway, what it’s made of (e.g. crush rock, dirt, pavement), and how much pushing needs to be done to make room for more snow piles.

Removing snow can be accomplished through several means, each with their pros and cons. Finding the right balance means safely accessing your beautiful Vermont home all winter long so you can fully appreciate our stunning winter landscapes.

Looking for more tips from Vermont insiders? Check out our blog where we share valuable content about living in this beautiful state.