Snow Removal 101: Tools and Tips for Every Job

Shovels and electric snow blowers may do the trick for smaller areas, and a skid steer or tractor can save a lot of time and backache if you've got a big space or heavy snowfall. But when do you need what? And what if your situation isn’t so cut and dry? Let’s break it down.

Winter Storm Prep: Be Ready Before the Snow Hits

The easiest way to make snow clearing more efficient is to begin before the first snowfall. Getting ahead of the snow saves time, reduces stress, and improves safety. Here’s how to prep your equipment and job site for safer, more stream-lined snow clearing.

Prepare Your Equipment

Don’t skimp on routine maintenance. Keeping your tractor, skid steer, and any snow clearing attachments you plan to use in top condition is the easiest way to make snow clearing more efficient. Inspect your snow removal equipment to ensure everything is in working order before winter sets in. This prevents last-minute issues that could put your machine or equipment out of service when you need it most.

Give your rig a once over to check for worn parts and ensure fuel and hydraulic fluids are topped off. Also consider keeping spare parts, such as shear pins and belts, on hand to avoid downtime during a storm.

Prepare for the Job

It may not always be possible, but prepping the jobsite before snowfall goes a long way in increasing efficiency. Use cones or stakes to mark key areas and features before it starts snowing––like walkways, driveways, curbs, fire hydrants, landscaping elements, and property lines. This will help you avoid obstacles hidden under deep snow and prevent accidental damage.

Matching Your Tools to Your Space: Choose the Right Equipment for Your Property

Choosing the right snow removal equipment depends on your property size, the typical amount of snowfall in your area, and the type of surface you’ll be working on. But things get confusing when you have to take all of these into account at the same time. Here are some options that work well for different working conditions you may find yourself in.

Small Areas (Driveways, Sidewalks, Walkways)

Light Snowfall (1-6 inches)

Snow Shovel – Ideal for minimal snow; no power needed.
Electric Snow Blower – Good for light, fluffy snow on paved surfaces.
Single-Stage Gas Snow Blower – Works well for small, paved areas with light but consistent snowfall.

Moderate Snowfall (6-12 inches)

Single-Stage Gas Snow Blower – Still effective but struggles with heavy/wet snow.
Two-Stage Snow Blower – May not be necessary for small areas but useful if snowfall is frequent.

Heavy Snowfall (12+ inches)

Two-Stage Snow Blower – Best for small spaces with deep snow.

Medium Areas (Long Driveways, Small Parking Lots)

Light Snowfall (1-6 inches)

Single-Stage Gas Snow Blower – Effective but may take longer for larger spaces. 
ATV Plow – Works well if snow is light and powdery.

Moderate Snowfall (6-12 inches)

Two-Stage Snow Blower – Self-propelled; handles packed snow better.
ATV with Plow – Can clear moderate snowfall but struggles with icy or deep drifts.
Compact Tractor Plow – Better than an ATV for pushing power, handles heavier snow.

Heavy Snowfall (12+ inches)

Compact Tractor Plow – Good balance of power and efficiency.
Skid Steer Snow Pusher – More effective than tractors in deeper snow.

Large Areas (Commercial Lots, Farms, Roads)

Light Snowfall (1-6 inches)

ATV with Plow – Fast for light accumulation but inefficient if frequent snowfall occurs.
Compact Tractor with Plow – Covers more ground than an ATV.

Moderate Snowfall (6-12 inches)

Tractor-Mounted Snow Pusher – Moves larger amounts of snow faster than a plow.
Truck-Mounted Snow Plow – Good for long roads and parking lots.

Heavy Snowfall (12+ inches)

Skid Steer Snow Pusher – Maneuverable for tight areas, handles deep snow. 
Truck-Mounted Snow Plow – Clears large lots and long roads quickly. 
Three-Stage Snow Blower – Cuts through compacted and icy snow better than two-stage models.

Your Surface Type

The type of surface you’re clearing also plays a crucial role in deciding what equipment will work best for you.  

Paved surfaces like concrete and asphalt allow for direct contact with the ground, making it easier to achieve a smooth, clean finish. 

Gravel driveways and uneven terrain, on the other hand, require extra care. Use the wrong tools and you’ll just kick up loose material and may even create a hazard. If you do need to clear gravel or uneven surfaces, choose equipment with features like adjustable skid shoes or floating blades to keep tools from digging in or damaging the surface.

Snow Removal Tips for Smaller Areas: Tackle Driveways, Walkways, and Roads

For homeowners and small property owners, clearing snow efficiently still requires the right technique:

• Clear snow early – Fresh snow is easier to remove than compacted or icy layers. Clearing snow as soon as you can helps prevent buildup and slipping hazards.
• Use an ergonomic shovel – The classic shovel is a go-to for small-scale snow clearing for a reason, but it can be hard on the back. Choose an ergonomic design to reduce strain and improve efficiency.
• Push rather than lift – Whenever possible, push snow instead of lifting to prevent strain in your back and shoulders.
• Apply ice melt – Throw down some salt or sand before things get slick to reduce ice buildup and improve traction.
• Work in layers – Don’t wait until the end of a storm to start clearing layers of snow. It’s much easier to clear one layer of snow than to have to clear multiple layers at one time.

Snow Removal Tips for Larger Areas: Clear Large Areas Quickly

For large spaces, time and efficiency are key when tackling snow removal, especially if it’s for-profit snow clearing. Here are a few ways to maximize efficiency: 

• Work in passes – Remove snow in multiple light passes rather than trying to push a heavy load all at once. This prevents damage to your machinery that could result in expensive delays.
• Consider snow blade type – If you’ve pushed snow before, you know a straight blade gets the job done. But if you’re moving a ton of it, a V-blade or winged blade can save a lot of time, offering more versatility and a higher weight capacity.
• These take a bit of getting used to but can make a difference when pushing large amounts of snow.
• Create a snow management plan – Designate where to place snow piles before you start working. This helps you avoid obstructing driveways or walkways and minimizes the need for having to move it later.
• Invest in a powerful snow blower – Snow blowers are fantastic for clearing large open areas because they allow you to throw large amounts of snow long distances quickly, cutting through heavy snow piles with ease. Choose one with an adjustable chute for direction control.
• Use a snow pusher – Take advantage of the wide-open space with a snow pusher. Unlike a plow, which pushes snow to the side and creates piles that require extra cleanup, you have enough space to use a pusher to collect and direct snow forward for more efficient removal.

Time-Saving Snow Removal Hacks: Clear Snow More Efficiently

• Pre-treat surfaces – Applying a salt brine solution before snowfall can prevent ice from forming and make snow removal easier.
• Use a leaf blower – For light, dry snow, a powerful leaf blower can clear pathways quickly.
• Work with the wind – When using a snow blower, direct snow downwind if possible to prevent it from blowing back onto cleared surfaces.
• Keep your equipment warm – Store your snow blower or skid steer in a garage or shed to prevent fuel or hydraulics from freezing so your equipment is ready for work when you are.
• Keep extra parts on hand – Keep extras on hand like windshield washer fluid, an ice scraper, sand for traction, grease to lubricate equipment, and any tools you may need in case of a breakdown.

Snow Removal Safety: Avoid Injuries and Accidents

Clearing snow can be physically demanding and even dangerous without the proper safety precautions. Here are some safety tips to minimize risks:

• Dress in layers – Wear insulated, waterproof clothing to stay warm and dry. 
• Use proper footwear – Non-slip, insulated boots provide traction and reduce the risk of slipping.
• Take breaks – Don’t try to be a hero––take breaks and avoid overexertion, especially during heavy snowfall.
• Stay hydrated – You can still become dehydrated in cold weather, so drink plenty of fluids and have extra water on hand in case of breakdowns if you’re in a remote area.
• Carry emergency supplies – Keep a first-aid kit, flashlight and batteries, extra gloves, and phone with you when working in extreme conditions. Depending on where you are, you may also want to keep some extra food on hand.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re clearing a small driveway or a large commercial space, these tips, tricks, and recommendations should cover all of the common challenges that come up during snow removal. Winter storms can be challenging, but with the right preparation, equipment, and strategies, you can tackle snow removal efficiently and safely. 

Looking to upgrade your snow clearing equipment? Head to Titan Attachments for top quality snow attachments, including snow plows, snow pushers, snow blowers––with pay-over-time plans to fit your schedule!