Winter in Canada means snow, ice, and endless shovelling. Sometimes, it feels like it just won’t end, especially toward the latter part of winter when all you want is to see those spring rains.
The secret to staying ahead of snow maintenance without it taking over your already-short days? Smart snow shovelling techniques using the right tools. These snow removal hacks can make the season far more manageable, helping you save time, prevent injuries, and keep your property safe all winter long. With a bit of planning and the right approach, even heavy snowfall can be handled efficiently. Whether you’re tackling your driveway, sidewalks, or parking lot, small changes to your routine can make a big difference.
Below are 10 expert-approved tips to make snow shovelling and ice management faster, easier, and a lot less backbreaking:
Snow Shovelling Tips for Easier Winter Cleanup
Stay ahead of winter storms with smart snow shovelling strategies. These quick, practical tips will help you clear snow faster, reduce strain, and keep your property safe all season:
1. Remove Snow While It’s Falling
Light snow is far easier to manage than a packed, icy pile. Start shovelling snow in stages during a storm rather than waiting until it stops. Removing snow while it’s falling prevents heavy accumulation that can freeze solid overnight. For larger areas, make several quick passes with your snow blower instead of tackling deep drifts all at once.
2. Use Heavy-Duty Snow Removal Tools
Investing in durable tools pays off. Look for snow shovels with ergonomic handles and adjustable lengths to reduce strain on your back. A sturdy snow pusher can move large volumes of snow quickly on flat driveways and sidewalks, while a metal-edged shovel helps break through icy surfaces. For big jobs, a snow blower is worth every penny. This is because it can handle large driveways and walkways in a fraction of the time, saving your back and the amount of time spent out in freezing temperatures!
3. Try DIY Ice-Melting Methods
Running low on salt? Create a DIY ice melt using common household ingredients. Mix dish soap, rubbing alcohol, and warm water in a bucket, then pour it over icy spots to break up ice without damaging concrete. You can also sprinkle kitty litter or sand to add traction on slippery areas. For an eco-friendly alternative, consider using beet juice or coffee grounds. Both reduce ice sticking and improve grip on walkways.
4. Develop A Snow Removal Schedule
Consistency is key. Shovel or use your snow blower at regular intervals throughout a storm instead of waiting for a huge pileup. If snow is expected overnight, clear your driveway and sidewalks before bed to prevent it from hardening by morning. Regular snow removal also prevents ice layers from forming beneath compacted snow, saving you from more work later.
5. Cover Surfaces Before Snow Hits
Want to prevent snow from sticking to your driveway or steps altogether? Try pre-covering them. Laying down a tarp or plastic sheet over vehicles, stairs, or small walkways makes cleanup simple. Just pull it off once the storm passes. For long-term convenience, heated mats or cables can also be installed to automatically melt ice on critical paths like entrances, steps, and garages.
6. Use Your Leaf Blower For Snow
Your leaf blower isn’t just for autumn leaves. On days with light snow, you can use it to clear your porch, car, or driveway quickly. It sounds strange, but it works! It works best on dry, fluffy snow and smaller areas like decks or walkways. This simple trick can save you from hauling out the heavy shovel for every minor dusting.
7. Spread Sand Over Slippery Areas
When salt isn’t cutting it, spread sand or fine gravel over icy surfaces for added traction. Sand doesn’t melt ice, but it prevents slipping on driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots. Keep a bucket of sand in your garage or vehicle during the winter season for quick access, which is especially helpful for commercial properties and apartment complexes.
8. Shovel In Comfortable Gear
Dressing for the task can make or break your winter cleanup routine. Layer breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to avoid overheating. Choose insulated, waterproof boots with solid traction to reduce the risk of slipping on ice and snow. Gloves with rubber grips improve shovel control, while a hat and face covering protect against windburn during longer sessions.
9. Oil Your Shovel For Smoother Use
Here’s one of the simplest snow removal hacks you’ll wish you tried sooner: Spray your shovel with cooking spray or a light coat of WD-40. It prevents snow from sticking to the blade, allowing it to glide smoothly through snow and ice. This trick also works for your snow blower chute, keeping it from clogging during heavy snowfall.
10. Keep Your Driveway Clear With Regular Touch-ups
The final tip is about maintenance. Once your driveway is cleared, give it a quick touch-up after the plows pass or temperatures drop. A thin layer of ice melt or sand helps prevent refreezing. During long storms, even a quick 10-minute session can make a huge difference in how easily you can manage the cleanup later.
Why Regular Snow Clearing Matters
Frequent snow removal is about convenience, but it’s also about safety, accessibility, and protecting your property from long-term damage. When snow and ice are left to accumulate, they can:
- Obscure cracks and potholes, allowing water to seep in and refreeze
- Damage asphalt and concrete over time, leading to costly repairs
- Create slip hazards for pedestrians and vehicles
- Block access for emergency vehicles, delivery trucks, or tenants
Even a few centimetres of compacted snow can turn into solid ice under pressure, making it harder to remove later. The freeze-thaw cycle (when daytime melting is followed by overnight freezing) can also expand existing cracks in asphalt, leading to premature pavement failure. Over time, what starts as a minor inconvenience can become a significant maintenance issue.
For commercial properties, regular snow shovelling and ice removal are also a matter of liability. Slippery parking lots and sidewalks increase the risk of falls and vehicle accidents, which can result in insurance claims or lawsuits. Residential property owners face similar risks, especially if municipal bylaws require snow clearing within a specific timeframe.
Keeping driveways and walkways clear improves curb appeal, prevents surface deterioration, and ensures everyone, including family, friends, and customers, can move safely around your property all winter long.
Need Professional Help With Removing Snow This Winter?
When storms hit hard, professional support can make all the difference. Infinity Asphalt offers reliable snow removal services designed to keep your property safe, accessible, and compliant with local safety standards. Our experienced crews work around the clock using top-quality snow removal tools and heavy-duty equipment to handle everything from driveways to large commercial lots.
We understand that shovelling snow is more than just a chore. Our team knows that it’s a necessity for preventing accidents, maintaining your property’s value, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. With our commitment to efficiency, safety, and long-term pavement protection, you can trust us to take care of your snow and ice removal needs all season long.
Contact Infinity Asphalt today to learn more about our snow removal and winter maintenance programs, or to request a free quote.