The best time to prepare your property for snow is before the first storm. Once the snow starts, it is harder to find hidden obstacles, and much harder to fix small problems. A little planning now can help keep your driveway, walkways and parking areas safer all winter.
Whether you own a home or manage a business in Central Massachusetts, this simple checklist will help you get ready.
Walk Your Property Before It Snows
Start with a slow walk around your property. Look for anything that could be hidden under the snow or get in the way of a plow or shovel. For example, check for:
- Hoses, garden tools and outdoor furniture
- Low landscape lights and small decorations
- Loose stones, pavers or edging
- Fallen branches and other debris
Move what you can into storage. If something has to stay in place, make a note of where it is, so it can be marked before the ground is covered.
Mark Driveway Edges and Obstacles
Under a deep layer of snow, it can be hard to see where a driveway ends and a lawn begins. Snow stakes make those edges easier to find. They can also mark curbs, walkways, fire hydrants, irrigation heads and anything else you want to protect.
Place your markers before the ground freezes, because it is usually much easier to push them in at that point.
Check Walkways, Steps and Drainage
Icy spots often form in the same places year after year. Look for areas where water collects or where a downspout drains across a walkway. Water that freezes there can create a slip hazard, even after the snow has been cleared.
Also check steps and handrails. If you notice loose or damaged areas, take care of them before winter weather arrives.
Think About Your Roof and Gutters
Clear leaves out of your gutters so melting snow has somewhere to go. After a heavy storm, keep an eye on the roof, as well. Too much snow can add weight, and ice dams can form along the edge. If your roof needs clearing, it is safer to call a professional than to climb up on a snowy roof yourself.
Decide Where the Snow Will Go
Snow piles up quickly, and it has to go somewhere. Think about where it can be placed without blocking sight lines, parking spaces, entrances or drains. Try to keep piles away from young shrubs and other plants that could be damaged by the weight.
This matters even more for a business. Customers and employees need clear entrances and safe places to park, so it helps to plan ahead.
Prepare Your Property for Snow With a Clear Plan
Finally, decide who will take care of the snow before a storm is in the forecast. Think about which areas need to be cleared first and whether you also need sanding, salting or pre-treating. Pre-treating before a storm can make snow and ice easier to remove, while sanding and salting add traction on icy surfaces.
At Green Paradise Services, our snow and winter services include snow plowing, snow removal, sanding and salting, pre-treating, snow blowing and shoveling, and roof clearing. We serve homes and businesses in Shrewsbury and across Central Massachusetts, with snow and ice management available 24/7.
Get Ready Before the First Storm
A short checklist today can save you a lot of trouble later. Walk your property, mark what matters and make your snow plan early.
Ready to plan for this winter? Request a free estimate or call us at (508) 500-6503.