As winter approaches, it’s important to know the different types of snow & removal techniques best suited for each type. Snowfall can vary greatly in its texture, consistency, and temperature, and understanding these differences can help you choose the right tools and methods for clearing your driveway, sidewalk, or parking lot. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of snow and the most effective snow removal techniques for each.
Dry Snow
Dry snow is often referred to as “powder” because of its fine, light texture. It falls when the air is very cold and dry, and it typically accumulates quickly because it doesn’t stick together or pack down easily. This makes it relatively easy to remove using a snow blower, shovel, or broom. However, because it’s so light, it can be blown around by the wind and create drifts that can be difficult to clear.
An effective technique for removing dry snow is to use a snow blower with a high-powered engine and a wide clearing path. This will help you clear large areas quickly, and the blower’s chute can be adjusted to direct the snow away from your property. If you don’t have a snow blower, a shovel or broom can be used to clear small amounts of dry snow. Be sure to lift the snow with your legs, not your back, to avoid strain or injury.
Wet Snow
Wet snow, also known as “packing” snow, is heavier and denser than dry snow. It falls when the air is relatively warm and moist, and it tends to stick together and form clumps that can be difficult to shovel or move. Wet snow can also be more slippery than dry snow, making it hazardous to walk or drive on.
One effective technique for removing wet snow is to use a shovel with a straight, wide blade. This will help you scoop up larger amounts of snow at once, and the straight edge can be used to cut through any icy patches that may have formed. If you’re clearing a large area, a snow plow attachment for your vehicle can be used to push the snow to the side of the road or parking lot. Be sure to take breaks and stretch periodically to avoid strain or injury.
Ice
Ice is a particularly challenging form of snowfall to remove, as it can be extremely slippery and difficult to break up. It often forms when temperatures fluctuate above and below freezing, causing snow to melt and then refreeze into a hard, icy surface. Ice can be particularly dangerous for pedestrians and drivers, as it can cause slips, falls, and car accidents.
An effective technique for removing ice is to use an ice melt product, which can be sprinkled on the surface to melt the ice and create traction. However, be sure to use an ice melt product that’s safe for the environment and won’t damage concrete or other surfaces. If you need to physically remove the ice, a metal scraper or ice pick can be used to break it up and then a shovel can be used to scoop up the broken pieces. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when using these tools.
Sleet
Sleet is a type of frozen precipitation that falls as small, hard pellets of ice. It’s often accompanied by freezing rain, which can cause a layer of ice to form on top of the sleet. Sleet can be particularly challenging to remove, as it’s often mixed with other forms of precipitation and can form a solid layer of ice.
One effective technique for removing sleet is to use a combination of a shovel and an ice melt product. Shovel away as much of the sleet as possible, and then apply an ice melt product to the remaining ice to melt it and create traction. Be sure to use an ice melt product that’s safe for the environment and won’t damage your surfaces. If the layer of ice is particularly thick or difficult to remove, you may need to use a metal scraper or ice pick to break it up before using a shovel to scoop up the broken pieces.
Slush
Slush is a mix of snow and water, often formed when the temperature hovers around freezing. It can be challenging to remove because it’s heavy and wet, but it’s also relatively easy to move around compared to other forms of snowfall. Slush can be dangerous to walk or drive on, as it can create slippery and unstable conditions.
An effective technique for removing slush is to use a snow blower or shovel to clear the majority of the slush, and then apply sand or kitty litter to the remaining slush to create traction. Be sure to use a lightweight sand or litter that won’t damage your surfaces. Another option is to use a hot water pressure washer to melt the slush and create a safer surface, but be sure to take care not to use water that’s too hot or that could damage your surfaces.
In conclusion, the different types of snowfall require different snow removal techniques to effectively clear your property. Dry snow can be removed using a snow blower, shovel, or broom, while wet snow can be removed using a shovel with a wide blade or a snow plow attachment for your vehicle. Ice can be removed using an ice melt product or a metal scraper and shovel, and sleet can be removed using a combination of a shovel and an ice melt product. Slush can be removed using a snow blower or shovel, and then creating traction using sand or kitty litter or melting it with a hot water pressure washer. When removing snow, it’s important to take your time, take breaks, and use proper techniques to avoid injury. Be sure to dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear to avoid slips and falls. And always use caution when driving or walking on snowy or icy surfaces. With the right tools and techniques, you can effectively remove any type of snowfall and create a safer environment for yourself and others.