Have you ever found yourself dreading that thick snow covering your driveway? You know you must shovel it, but it’s a tough task. Snow Removal in Oakville might seem simple, but it can become a major hassle without the right technique or equipment. Whether you are trying to keep your walkway clear or make your driveway safe, shoveling snow is not as easy as it seems. You might hurt your back, not clear enough snow, or even damage your property. But don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll walk you through the common mistakes people make when shoveling snow and how to avoid them. Stick with us; by the end, you’ll shovel like a pro!

Using the Wrong Shovel for Snow Removal Oakville

Let’s face it: not all shovels are created equal. Using the wrong one can make the job harder and increase the risk of injury. Many people think a heavy-duty, oversized shovel is the way to go. But here’s the thing: bigger isn’t always better! A shovel that’s too heavy or too large will make you exert more force, especially when the snow is deep or wet. Instead, choose a shovel that feels comfortable in your hands. Consider one with a curved handle to reduce strain on your back. If you’re shoveling a lot of snow, think about using a snow blower for more efficiency. A lighter shovel means you can scoop up more snow without overexerting yourself. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, nearly 100,000 Americans are injured yearly from improper snow shoveling, primarily due to back strain.

Shoveling in the Wrong Direction

Do you ever find yourself shoveling snow into the wind only to have it blow back in your face? It’s frustrating, right? One of the most common mistakes people make is not thinking about the direction of the wind. When you shovel snow, always try to throw it to the side, away from your path, rather than directly in front of you. If the wind is blowing, turn to face it to avoid the snow blowing back at you. Also, be mindful of where you’re placing the snow. Throwing it onto your driveway or sidewalks again can create a bigger mess later on.

Overexerting Yourself

This is a mistake many of us are guilty of. You start shoveling snow; before you know it, you’ve been at it for hours with no break. But this can lead to serious back pain or even injury. Snow removal can be physically demanding, especially if you have a large area to clear. Instead of pushing yourself too hard, take frequent breaks. Stretch your body and rest for a few minutes every 15 to 20 minutes. If you find the snow heavy or wet, tackle it in smaller sections, so you’re not lifting too much. When it comes to snow removal, it’s all about working smart, not hard! Also, if you are feeling overwhelmed, consider calling a landscaper Oakville, to help with snow clearing. A professional landscaper can handle the snow removal efficiently and ensure safe pathways.

Not Clearing Snow Early Enough

Waiting too long to clear the snow is a huge mistake. The longer you wait, the more compact the snow becomes, making it harder to remove. If the snow has been left to settle, it will freeze, turning your driveway into an ice rink. To avoid this, try to clear snow as soon as it falls. If you’re unsure how much snow will accumulate, clear a small section every few hours. This will save you the trouble of later dealing with a large, frozen mass. Plus, it’s much easier to shovel when the snow is still fresh and light.

The Right Time to Shovel

• Shovel right after it snows to prevent ice buildup.
• Break up larger sections into manageable parts.
• Don’t wait until snow turns into ice!
• Consider shoveling multiple times during heavy snowfall.

Lifting Improperly

If you’re shoveling, it’s easy to fall into the habit of bending at the waist and using your back to scoop up heavy snow. But this is a recipe for injury. Instead, bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting. Use your legs to push the shovel into the snow and lift it. This minimizes the strain on your back and makes lifting much easier. If the snow is especially heavy, don’t hesitate to take smaller scoops. Lifting too much snow at once can cause back strain, so be careful and think about your body mechanics!

Not Clearing the Edges

People often focus too much on the center of their driveway or walkway, leaving the edges filled with snow. Not clearing the edges of your walkway can create a narrow, slippery path. As the snow builds up along the sides, it’s harder to remove and creates a hazard. Instead, make sure to clear the edges as well. Use your shovel to scrape the snow along the sides and widen the path. You’ll avoid the snow buildup that leads to a slippery mess.

Relying on a Quick Fix

You might think a quick shovel job is enough when it snows heavily. But if you’re moving snow from one spot to another without clearing it completely, you’re doing more harm than good. If you search for a “snow removal company near me” because you can’t keep up with the amount of snow, that might be your best option. Professional snow removal services are equipped with the right tools to handle large snowfalls efficiently, and they’ll clear your driveway or walkway without making it worse. Sometimes, calling in the pros is the smartest move!

Why You Might Need Professional Help

• Snow is too heavy or deep to handle alone.
• You’re unable to shovel for long periods due to physical limitations.
• You don’t have the right equipment or time.
• Avoid injury by relying on professional services for major snowfalls.

Forgetting to Salt After Shoveling

After you’ve worked hard to clear the snow, it’s tempting to think you’re done. However, one mistake people make is forgetting to salt or use deicer on the cleared surfaces. Salt helps melt any leftover snow and ice and prevents new ice from forming. It also provides traction, which can prevent slips and falls. After shoveling, sprinkle salt evenly across your driveway, walkway, and stairs. It’s a small step that can make a huge difference, ensuring your snow removal efforts aren’t wasted.

Salting Tips

• Use the right amount of salt to avoid waste.
• Spread evenly on surfaces to maximize effectiveness.
• Consider using eco-friendly deicers if you are concerned about your lawn.

Conclusion

Shoveling snow doesn’t have to be a chore you dread. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the job much easier and safer. Whether using the right shovel, lifting properly, or calling a company for snow removal Oakville, it’s all about working smart. If you remember these tips, you’ll easily clear snow and avoid unnecessary injuries. Remember, snow removal is all about planning, taking your time, and keeping your body safe. If you ever struggle, it might be time to call the experts. At Safe Scape Services, we’re here to help with all your snow removal needs!