Homeowners battling to clear snow from their driveway need to understand the best plowing practices before they invest in a snowplow. A little planning can make a huge difference. The first step will be to choose a reliable snowplow.
Hiniker’s high-performance residential snow plow offers incredible performance. Visit their showroom in Minnesota to check on the 6000, 7000, 8000, 9300, and 1032 series of snowplow collection. For residential use the mid-sized tilt-lift snowplows are appealing.
Things to consider while planning
- Read the manufacturer’s manual to understand how to use the spreader and plow.
- Identify the areas you will plow.
- If driveways are curvy and long learn how to avoid damaging the landscape or lawn.
- Plan where to pile the gathered snow.
- Think about drainage when the snow melts.
If the driveways are straight and short, back dragging snow works fine. Start closer to the driveway top and if possible, pull the snow back towards the street. Unfortunately, all the tasks are not that simple.
Tips to effectively plow different kinds of residential driveways
Dirt or gravel driveway
If the dirt or gravel driveway is long to check the surface to identify where there are unexpected dips and rises. Think about the place to pile the snow.
Driveways with garage
A straight driveway with garage on one end allows dropping plow and dragging snow backward away from the garage minimal two vehicle lengths without making a very large pile. Pile snow on the edges of the driveway on one or both sides. Ensure there is sufficient room for several snow events without significant defrost.
Longer or wider driveways
Multiple passes need to be made if the driveway is wider or longer. In this case, start from the center, tilt the plow left and right to push snow on either side of the driveway. This method saves a lot of time!
Driveways ending in a lawn
A long straight driveway ending in a lawn needs a straight push from the road and piling snow at the driveway end. Check if there are no statutes, birdbaths, etc. that can get damaged with piled snow.
Safety tips
- Be careful, while backing up. Never depend on the cameras or mirrors. Turn around and look directly at the rear window’s center. Be cognizant of pets, traffic, and pedestrians.
- Never block neighbor’s driveway or hinder road traffic, when you pile snow.
- When the snow gets piled in your own driveway ensure that the mailbox can be easily accessed from the curb.
- Check local law about pushing snow across the street having a wooded area.
