While December typically brings to mind a winter wonderland blanketed in soft, white snow, milder temperatures in the Midwest have resulted in winters that are a little less, well, wintery. Warmer temperatures during the winter make all the difference in the type of precipitation an area gets and can necessitate changes in the way you tackle snow and ice removal for your home or business. Here are some tips for ways to adjust your snow and ice removal plans when a warmer winter is in your future.
Monitor the forecast
Although temperatures may be too warm for snow to be imminent, it’s crucial to keep an eye on predicted precipitation and temperatures. Sleet and freezing rain can be just as, if not more, hazardous for roads and sidewalks because they form a layer of ice across the ground. Even rain can become dangerous if temperatures drop below freezing when there is still standing water on surfaces. Stay informed about the upcoming weather so you can be prepared for potentially treacherous conditions and plan accordingly.
Adjust deicing practices
The type of deicing product you need is going to vary based on the temperature. Warmer winter weather allows you to reevaluate your deicing practices and gives you the opportunity to use options that are more environmentally friendly. Ice melt is best for extreme cold because most are effective in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit, and it works to melt ice faster than some other methods. However, it doesn’t provide any traction on the ice, and it can be harmful to concrete and metal, pets, and landscaping. Rock salt is an alternative for when temperatures don’t drop quite as low because it generally works to melt ice in temperatures at or above 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. While it does add traction and is less expensive than ice melt, it can also cause the same kinds of damage as ice melt. Another warmer weather option is potassium chloride (KCI), which works in temperatures of 25 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. While KCI is better for the environment than ice melt or rock salt, it is typically more expensive and can still cause damage to concrete. One of the most environmentally friendly options for ice can be found in your backyard playset – sand! Sand does not melt ice, but it provides excellent traction and is safe for your four-legged friends in addition to being cost effective. When possible, work to remove ice from steps and walkways during warmer temperatures during the day, so that it doesn’t refreeze during the night and become more treacherous.
Focus on prevention
Warmer temperatures mean you can take more proactive measures for when snow or ice are in the forecast. Pretreat surfaces using liquid deicers to help prevent ice from forming in the first place. You could also place a plastic tarp down over your car, sidewalks, or walkways then remove it once the snow has stopped.
Use the right tools and methods
Different types and amounts of snow need different types of tools. Heavy snow plows may not be necessary for warmer winters with less snow. Light, fluffy snow can be blown off with a leaf blower, but warmer temperatures can result in heavy, wet snow that requires a different approach. Certain snow blowers are designed to manage heavy, wet snow, or you could pull out your wet/dry vacuum. Simply suck up the snow, or for greater efficiency, turn your vacuum into a blower by connecting the hose to the vacuum’s exhaust. Some people even use cooking spray on their shovels so that heavy, wet snow just slides right off.
Planning for snow and ice removal can look a little different during warmer winters, but it doesn’t mean the task should be ignored. Make sure you are prepared for whatever kind of weather winter brings.
