How to Safely Shovel Snow in Your Landscaping
Introduction
While it may not be your favorite winter activity, shoveling snow in your driveway and landscaping is an essential task during the colder months. Done properly, it ensures safety and maintains the health of your outdoor spaces. Here, we share top tips for safe and efficient snow removal to protect yourself and your landscaping.
Preparing for Snow Shoveling
Preparation is key to avoiding injuries and staying comfortable while shoveling. Follow these steps before heading outside:
Warm Up Your Body
Cold muscles are more prone to strain. Begin with light stretches or walk in place for a few minutes to get your blood flowing. Focus on stretching your arms, legs, and back to prepare for lifting and pushing snow.
Simple Warm-Up Exercises
- Arm Circles: Rotate your arms forward and backward to loosen shoulder joints.
- Leg Swings: Swing each leg back and forth to improve flexibility.
- Torso Twists: Gently twist your upper body side to side to loosen your back muscles.
Choose the Right Shovel
Winter-Ready Tools: Keep Snow at Bay with a Reliable Shovel
The right tool makes all the difference. Look for a well-built shovel with an ergonomic handle to minimize bending. Lightweight plastic shovels are ideal for reducing strain, especially if you’re concerned about handling heavy snow. Avoid using overly large shovels that may tempt you to overload them.
Features to Look for in a Shovel
- Ergonomic Handles: Reduce back strain with curved or adjustable handles.
- Lightweight Materials: Choose plastic for ease of use or aluminum for durability.
- Nonstick Coating: Prevent snow from sticking to the blade for quicker shoveling.
Dress Appropriately
Layer your clothing to stay warm without overheating. Start with moisture-wicking base layers followed by insulating mid-layers, and finish with a waterproof outer layer. Wear gloves, a hat, and insulated boots to protect against the cold. As you warm up during shoveling, remove layers as needed.
Essential Winter Gear
- Thermal Gloves: Keep hands warm while maintaining dexterity.
- Waterproof Boots: Prevent slips and keep feet dry.
- Face Protection: Use a scarf or balaclava for wind protection.
Stay Hydrated
Shoveling snow is physically demanding. Bring water to drink during breaks or step inside every 20-30 minutes to hydrate. Staying hydrated helps maintain your energy and prevents fatigue.
Hydration Tips
- Drink warm beverages like tea for extra comfort.
- Avoid alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.
Plan for Breaks
Set a timer to remind yourself to take breaks every 20-30 minutes. During breaks, stretch, hydrate, and avoid overexertion. If possible, shovel in shifts throughout the day to avoid tackling the entire task at once.
Shovel Promptly
Tackle snow removal soon after snowfall to prevent accumulation of heavy, wet snow. Fresh snow is lighter and easier to manage, reducing strain on your body and your tools.
Benefits of Early Shoveling
- Prevents ice formation from compacted snow.
- Reduces the overall workload. Wet snow can be much heavier and puts a greater strain on your body and shovel.
Creating a Snow Shoveling Plan
A Homeowner Hard at Work Clearing Snow for a Safer Driveway
Having a plan before you start ensures efficiency and minimizes unnecessary effort:
Prioritize High-Traffic Areas
Clear driveways, walkways, and entrances first to ensure safe access. If you live on a busy street, wait for snowplows to clear the roads before addressing the end of your driveway to avoid double the work.
Tips for Driveway Clearing
- Use a straight-line technique for efficiency.
- Clear the edges first to prevent re-shoveling.
Work in Stages
If the snowfall is continuous, consider shoveling in intervals. This prevents excessive buildup and makes the job more manageable.
How to Manage Heavy Snowfall
- Shovel every few hours during prolonged snowstorms.
- Focus on smaller sections to avoid fatigue.
Plan Snow Placement
Decide where to pile the snow before starting. Avoid creating piles in areas you’ll need to clear later, such as pathways or drainage areas.
Snow Piling Tips
- Pile snow away from the house foundation to prevent water damage.
- Avoid blocking sidewalks or neighbors’ driveways.
Shoveling Around Shrubs and Landscaping
When working near shrubs and bushes, take extra care to avoid damaging your plants:
Handle Branches Gently
Snow-covered branches are heavy and brittle. Use a broom or your hands to gently brush off the snow, reducing strain on the plant.
Protecting Shrubs in Winter
- Wrap shrubs with burlap for added protection.
- Avoid using salt near plants, as it can damage roots.
Be Mindful of Roots
Watch for roots near the surface or other plant structures hidden beneath the snow. Avoid digging too close to your shrubs to prevent accidental damage.
Preventative Landscaping Tips
- Mulch around the bases of shrubs to insulate roots.
- Prune branches in late fall to reduce snow weight.
Shovel or Snow Blower: Which Should You Use?
Efficient Snow Removal with a Powerful Snow Blower
The choice between a shovel and a snow blower depends on your specific needs:
Consider the Size of Your Property
For small driveways and yards with minimal snowfall, a shovel is sufficient and cost-effective. A snow blower, however, is a worthwhile investment for larger properties or areas with heavy snowfall.
Advantages of Snow Blowers
- Faster removal for large areas
- Effective for deep or compacted snow
Factor in Maintenance
Snow blowers require fuel and regular maintenance. If you choose this option, remember that you may still need a shovel for touch-ups and areas a blower cannot reach.
Snow Blower Maintenance Tips
- Check fuel levels and oil before every use.
- Keep the blades sharp for optimal performance.
Final Thoughts
Whether you receive a light dusting or a heavy snowfall, proper snow removal is essential for safety and for maintaining your landscaping. By taking the time to prepare, plan, and execute your snow removal strategy, you can avoid unnecessary strain and protect the beauty and health of your outdoor spaces.
Benefits of Thoughtful Snow Removal
- Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of slips and falls for you and others.
- Preserved Landscaping: Protects shrubs, trees, and other plants from damage.
- Efficient Workflows: Saves time and energy with strategic snow placement.
Stay Connected with Your Landscaping Needs
Snow removal is just one part of seasonal landscaping care. Use winter as an opportunity to assess your property’s overall health and plan improvements for the coming seasons. For example:
- Consider adding hardy plants that can withstand winter conditions.
- Plan early for spring mulching and fertilizing to give your garden a head start.
- Review drainage systems to ensure proper water flow during snowmelt.
Originally posted on December 13, 2018.
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