Snow Removal 101: The Best Products and Tools for Clearing Snow This Winter

Winter is beautiful, but snow and ice are widely considered to be the drawbacks of the season. Snow and ice can make travel dangerous, making it difficult to even leave your driveway. Winter weather can impact holiday travel and even cause hazards for senior relatives and young children. However, by having the right snow removal products on hand, you can keep snow and ice under control so you can be ready for whatever the day holds.

Break up hard chunks of ice with a shovel

Few things are so effective at removing snow and ice from a driveway or patio than a standard snow shovel. A snow shovel is very effective at breaking up hard chunks of ice and scooping away mounds of snow. Snow shovels come in a variety of sizes and materials, with many made from a combination of metal and plastic. When selecting your snow shovel, consider the size of the area you have to clear, including the width of your driveway and sidewalk. Just be sure to purchase heavy-duty snow gloves, if you don’t already have a pair.

Clear large amounts of snow with a blower

Snow shovels are effective at breaking down and removing snow and ice, but a snow blower is the best way to clear large amounts of snow in a short amount of time. A snow blower is also a more ergonomic option, saving your back, shoulders, and arms from the strain of manually removing snow from your driveway or walkway.

Drive safely with a windshield scraper

Odds are, you’ll need to use your car at some point when winter weather has struck. In instances like these, a windshield scraper can be a lifesaver. A handheld windshield scraper is relatively inexpensive and quite effective at getting your car ready for the road. Make sure to turn on the defrost function in your car so the windshield has a chance to heat up while you remove the ice and snow.

Maintain driveways with ice-melting salt

Ice often lingers even after the snow is cleared away. To be sure your walkways are safe to traverse, you’ll need salt. This essential snow removal product can be used all over your driveway or sidewalk, or wherever snow and ice is present. Salt works to melt the ice as well as provide traction for both shoes and tires. It’s a good idea to have a few bags of salt in your garage or shed at all times, so you’ll always be prepared when winter weather strikes. If snow and ice are in the forecast, go ahead and spread salt in your driveway as a preventative measure.

Clean your patio with an outdoor broom

In conjunction with a snow shovel, an outdoor broom can help you clear almost any size driveway or sidewalk. There are lots of size options, from hand brooms perfect for stairs and small spaces to large brooms that can tackle large snow removal jobs. While many homeowners opt to use an outdoor broom on their cars, it’s a good idea to verify that the bristles are soft before you try this. A broom with stiff bristles could damage the paint job on your car.

Clarks Ace Hardware has the snow removal products you need

Snow and ice can be overwhelming, but with the right snow removal products, you’ll be equipped to clear any outdoor space with confidence. Whether you need to stock up on salt or pick up a new snow shovel, Clarks Ace Hardware has what you need. We have an extensive selection of snow removal products and the friendliest customer service. Visit one of our locations in Ellicott City and Columbia  to learn more about our products and to find the items you need to keep your driveway clear this winter.