Winter is fast approaching and with winter comes that all-familiar sight: snow! You might be one of those people who loves the sight of a winter wonderland – until your car is stuck in the driveway. Or maybe you are a business owner with a snow-covered parking lot, and you need to ensure your building is accessible to customers. We all need to prepare for snow this winter, and that’s where snow removal equipment comes in. Depending on your circumstances, the right snow removal equipment could be anything from a shovel to a heavy-duty wheel loader. Let’s take a look at some types of snow removal equipment and their functions.
1. Shovel
Every homeowner should have access to some basic snow removal tools and a shovel is non-negotiable. There are many different types of shovels available. Blades can be made of plastic or metal. Some have flat blades for deeper snow and some have round blades that make it easier to scoop up snow and toss it aside. Shovels are best used to clear walkways, sidewalks, stairs, or driveways.
2. Ice Scraper and Snow Brush
If you own a vehicle, you’ll need to own an ice scraper and snow brush to get through the winter. When the temperatures drop below zero, it’s essential to scrape the ice or frost off your windshield to ensure visibility while driving. A snow brush comes in handy to clear your car after a snowfall. You can find 2-in-1 versions of these tools, or purchase them separately.
3. Snow Rake
When heavy snow accumulates on rooftops it can cause structural damage to the roof. Snow rakes are specifically designed to help you safely pull snow off rooftops, without needing a ladder. These lightweight rakes often feature a telescoping handle so you can adjust the rake to suit the height of your roof, and protective pads that prevent damage to your roof.
4. Ice Melt
Ice melt is a salt-based chemical substance that melts ice and snow by lowering the freezing point of water. It is typically applied to surfaces like walkways or driveways before or during freezing conditions to prevent ice buildup. Ice melt helps avoid slippery surfaces which might lead to dangerous slips and falls. Ice melt can corrode concrete or metal and can be harmful to the environment, so is best used sparingly. Adding sand to ice melt can increase the traction of the surface, therefore reducing the amount you need to use.
5. Snow Blower
A snow blower is a machine that can remove large amounts of snow from areas like driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots. Snow blowers use an auger or impeller to collect snow and throw it to a new location through a chute. There are several different types of snow blowers including single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage blowers. The right type of snow blower will depend on your specific snow removal needs:
- Single-stage snow blowers are the most basic type, best suited for light to medium snow and paved surfaces. They are also the lightest, cheapest, and easiest to use.
- Two-stage snow blowers use an auger to break up and scoop snow, then a high-speed impeller to throw it out of the chute. This type of snow blower is more powerful than a single-stage blower and can clear heavier snow and ice.
- Three-stage snow blowers are the largest and most powerful version. They use an auger, an impeller, and an accelerator to clear snow faster and throw it farther. Three-stage snow blowers are designed to remove heavy snow from large areas and can be used for both residential and commercial purposes.
6. Snow Removal Loaders
Various kinds of heavy-duty equipment are available for snow removal. These types of machines are best suited to larger areas or professional snow plow services. Many of these machines can be fitted with specialized attachments designed specifically for snow removal. Some snow removal loaders include:
- Skid Steer – Skid steer loaders are compact vehicles that work well for clearing snow in small areas and tight spaces. Some move around on wheels and others on tracks.
- Wheel Loader – Wheel loaders have large tires and can handle more types of terrain than other loaders. They are powerful machines that can handle a lot of snow.
- Backhoe Loader – Backhoe loaders are used to dig and plow through snow. The design of backhoe loaders allows them to navigate through challenging conditions, including wet, heavy snow. Backhoe loaders can lift snow to move it, as well as compact it.
Whether you are a homeowner shoveling your sidewalk in the morning, to a business owner clearing your parking lot for customers, we all need to be prepared for the winter season and the snowfall it brings. It’s important to have the right equipment to suit your specific needs. In many situations, hiring a professional snow plow service is the best way to deal with heavy snowfall quickly and efficiently. For more information, contact us at Whiteout Group!
