Chicago winter can be harsh, particularly when your driveway is covered in thick snow. If not properly cleared, snow and ice accumulation can cause accidents, driveway damage, and difficulty getting in and out of your house. Though snow shoveling may appear straightforward, employing the correct methods and equipment can conserve your time and energy.

Hernandez Lawn Care is here to assist with effective, practical, and safe means of snow removal from your driveway. Whether you are looking for DIY or hiring professional snow removal companies in Chicago, this guide provides all you need to know.

Begin with the Right Tools

Prior to clearing your driveway, possessing the right equipment will make it significantly easier. Here’s what you will need:

• Snow Shovel: Select an ergonomic, lightweight shovel with a contoured handle to minimize back pain. A wide-blade shovel is good at pushing snow, and a compact one is best for lifting.
• Snow Blower: For a big driveway, a snow blower is a worthwhile investment. It removes the snow quickly with no heavy lifting involved in snow shoveling.
• Ice Melt or Rock Salt: These inhibit ice formation and enhance traction, making your driveway easier to walk and drive on.
• Snow Pusher: In contrast to a regular shovel, a pusher pushes great volumes of snow without needing you to lift it. This is excellent for light, fluffy snow.
• Snow Broom or Roof Rake: These assist in clearing light snow without harming fragile surfaces such as wooden decks or ornamental stone walks.

Clear Snow as Soon as Possible

It’s tempting to wait until the snowfall stops before shoveling, but this often makes the job harder. Fresh snow is lighter and easier to remove than snow that has been packed down by foot or vehicle traffic.

Why is early removal important?

• Prevents ice formation that can make future removal more difficult.
• Reduces the risk of slipping and falling on frozen surfaces.
• Prevents overloading your driveway, which may crack under the weight of heavy snow and ice.

If there is a heavy snowfall forecast, shovel the snow in stages instead of waiting until it accumulates.

Employ Correct Shoveling Techniques

Shoveling is strenuous, and incorrect techniques can cause injury. Use the following guidelines to make shoveling safer and more effective:

• Bend at knees, not waist. Lifting your leg rather than back reduces strain on your back.
• Push rather than lift when you can. Pushing snow to the side is better on your body than lifting and throwing.
• Make your loads light. If you need to lift, scoop little amounts at a time to prevent overexertion.
• Take breaks. Shoveling for long periods can cause exhaustion or even heart strain, particularly in extreme cold.
• Wear appropriate clothing. Layer up with warm, moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry and comfortable.

Utilize a Snow Blower for Efficiency

For homeowners with large driveways, a snow blower can significantly speed up the process. Here’s how to use it effectively:

• Start at the center and work outward in rows. This prevents unnecessary passes over the same area.
• Adjust the chute direction. Make sure you are not blowing snow back onto your cleared areas.
• Do not fight the wind. When there is wind, blow snow ahead of the direction of the wind so that the snow does not fall back on your driveway.
• Maintain your snow blower. Inspect fuel levels, clean the blade, and keep it in operable condition before the snowing season begins.

Apply Ice Melt Strategically

Shoveling is perhaps insufficient in itself to halt ice accumulation. Employ ice melt or rock salt to maintain a safe driveway.

Ice melt usage best practices:

• Select calcium chloride-based ice melt since it effectively operates under conditions of low temperature.
• Employ frugally. Too much use of salt could destroy concrete, grass, and other adjacent flora.
• Sprinkle ahead of time. Putting ice melt out onto the driveway ahead of precipitation allows ice not to stick on your driveway.
• Reapply as necessary. If temperatures drop once more after melting, you might need to apply a second time.

Stop Ice Buildup Before It Begins

Rather than continually fighting ice, use these preventative strategies:

• Put down a snow-melting mat. These warm mats make your driveway ice-free.
• Spray a saltwater solution on the driveway prior to a storm. This will retard ice development.
• Use sand or kitty litter for traction. While they don’t melt ice, they provide extra grip for walking and driving.

Consider Professional Snow Removal Services

Chicago winters can be relentless, and sometimes handling snow removal on your own isn’t practical. Hiring professionals like Hernandez Lawn Care ensures:

• Quick and efficient service: Avoid spending hours in the cold.
• Regular maintenance: Scheduled snow removal keeps your driveway clear after every snowfall.
• Safe ice removal: Experts use proper de-icing techniques to prevent slippery surfaces.
• Less physical strain: Avoid the risk of back pain, exhaustion, or injury.

If you are tired of dealing with the snow every winter, professional snow removal is a stress-free solution.

Final Thoughts

Snow removal is a critical aspect of Chicago winter home care. With the proper equipment, timely snow clearing, and strategic use of ice melt, you can ensure your driveway remains safe and open throughout the entire season.

But if the relentless snow clearing overwhelms you, Hernandez Lawn Care is on the job! Our expert snow removal services in Chicago keep your driveway clear, so you don’t have to brave the cold each morning.

Having trouble with snow removal? Call Hernandez Lawn Care today and let us handle the heavy lifting for you!