Snow removal is a part of life during a Winnipeg winter – right up there with plugging in your car and watching the sun go down as you make dinner. But is snow removal easy? The honest answer: not usually. Winnipeg’s freezing temperatures and heavy snowfalls mean clearing snow is often a challenge for both homeowners and property managers. However, with the right tools and a bit of planning, it can become more manageable.
In this post, we’re going to explore why snow removal in Winnipeg is rarely easy and what you can do to make it less overwhelming.
Is snow removal easy?
No, snow removal is not an inherently easy task: Shovelling snow is physically demanding and can lead to back injuries or heart problems when combined with the cold weather.
Winnipeg’s frigid winters pose some unique challenges for snow removal:
1. Heavy, Frequent Snowfalls
Winnipeg gets multiple, frequent snowfalls each season, often dropping significant amounts of snow. Heavy, wet snow is the hardest to clear, and the risk of straining your back is much higher. Even smaller snowfalls can add up, and Winnipeggers may have to clear snow several times a week, making the process more time-consuming than in milder cities.
2. Prairie Winds and Drifting Snow
The flat, windy prairie landscape surrounding Winnipeg creates the perfect conditions for drifting snow. It’s not uncommon for a driveway or sidewalk to collect deep, uneven piles overnight, even after a light snowfall!
3. Extreme Cold
Below -20°C, snow becomes dry and hard-packed, sometimes compressing into a slick layer of ice that requires chipping, chiselling, or specialized tools to remove. Also, Winnipeg’s extreme cold conditions can present significant health risks to the person shovelling, including heart strain, respiratory issues, or frostbite.
4. Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Temperatures in Winnipeg can vary widely throughout the winter. Melting during the day followed by freezing at night creates hazardous, icy conditions that make snow even more difficult to remove. Slush can turn into frozen, uneven ruts that stick to concrete or asphalt, making it extremely hard to clear with a shovel.
On days when the temperatures are mild and the snow is light and fluffy, snow removal can seem much easier. Unfortunately for Winnipeggers, these days are the exception rather than the norm!
How can I make snow removal easier?
While Winnipeg winters can be unforgiving, here are a few practical tips to make snow removal more manageable, whether you’re handling it yourself or working with a Winnipeg professional business snow removal service.
1. Clear Snow Early and Often
The longer the snow sits, the heavier and icier it becomes, making removal more difficult. Clear snow in light layers as it falls rather than doing one huge cleanup after a big storm.
2. Use the Right Tools
Invest in a good, ergonomic shovel or consider a snowblower for large areas. Using the right equipment for the job can save time and help reduce your risk of injury.
3. Use the Proper Technique
Push snow to the side of your driveway or walkway instead of lifting and throwing it over your shoulder. If you must lift, bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and avoid twisting your body. Take breaks when necessary!
4. Dress for Success
Always dress for the weather to make the job easier and safer! Wear warm boots with good grip, insulated gloves, a hat, and breathable layers.
5. Use Cooking Spray
A light coat of cooking spray on your shovel blade prevents heavy snow from clumping and sticking, making shovelling faster and easier. Reapply as needed.
Is it worth it to hire a professional snow removal service?
Yes, a professional snow removal service is almost always worth it, especially for commercial properties where customers and employees need safe, reliable access to your building. During Winnipeg winters, snow removal is more than a convenience. It’s a necessity. Having an emergency snow management plan in place helps your property being accessible during heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and sudden weather changes. Hiring a professional snow removal service provides peace of mind, knowing your property is monitored and handled properly even in the worst conditions.
For some homeowners, DIY snow removal is a good option. You can probably shovel snow yourself if:
- You have a small walkway or driveway.
- You are physically able to shovel snow.
- You own the proper equipment.
- You have a flexible schedule.
So, is snow removal easy? Most of the time, no, especially in Winnipeg. However, with the right tools, timing, and techniques, or with the help of a professional, snow removal can be less stressful. Contact us today at the Whiteout Group for more information!
