The Most Common Snow Removal Mistakes

CENTURY 21 Mertz & Associates January 25, 2023

Snow is an inevitable part of winter that conjures mixed emotions, depending on your preferences towards winter weather. Whether you love a snowy day or can't wait until warm spring temperatures arrive, snow removal is a necessary chore during the winter months. Our real estate agents know that following a few guidelines for snow removal will make the process as simple as possible. Here are some of the most common snow removal mistakes to avoid.

Neglecting to Clear Downspout Drains and Gutters – If your gutters or downspout drains are clogged, this can prevent precipitation from melting snow from draining properly. The melted snow will remain in your gutters or downspouts, and when temperatures drop below freezing, it will refreeze and expand. This expansion will put unnecessary wear and tear on your gutters, shortening their lifespan. Should you decide to add your home to the inventory of Lewisburg homes for sale, you want every part of your home to look its best.
Overlooking Maintenance for Your Snow Removal Equipment – Before you put your snow blower up for the season, spend a few moments clearing the auger and impeller. If snow is left in these areas, it can freeze and damage the machine's internal components. Make sure to read your owner's manual so that you know what specific maintenance the manufacturer recommends to keep your machine running at its best.
Leaving Snow on Your Roof – While a dusting of snow on your roof isn't a huge concern, if you have several inches of snow or more, it's best to promptly remove the snow before it gets too heavy. If you leave a pile of heavy snow on your roof, you risk damaging it. Your snow removal technique doesn't have to be fancy; grab a roof rake and use it to disperse the snow.
Using Ice Melt That's Toxic to Your Pets – Ice melt is a super convenient way to melt snow from your driveway and walkways. However, it's important to make sure that any ice melt you use is safe for your pets if they happen to ingest it. The last thing you want to do is trek to the emergency vet in the middle of a snowstorm.
Waiting Too Long to Remove Snow – The longer you wait to get rid of snow, the more cumbersome and time-consuming snow removal will be when you get around to it. Snow is surprisingly heavy when it piles up; you have a lower risk of straining your back when you remove it a little bit at a time. You also run the risk of the snow melting and refreezing, which means you're then trying to remove ice rather than snow.

By avoiding these snow removal mistakes, your snow and ice removal will be a breeze this winter. Ready to relocate to a home with more space for winter fun? Contact us to get started.