Snow removal is essential to keep properties accessible, but it’s also a dangerous chore that can lead to overexertion, heart conditions, and falls. To avoid these hazards, it’s important to clear snow in a smart and efficient way.
Using weather forecasting technology is one of the most effective ways to optimize your snow removal business. Here are tips to help you get ahead of the weather:
Plan Ahead
Snow removal is a time-consuming process. Whether it’s residential or commercial, you must have enough supplies and manpower to handle the job before it gets out of hand. The best time to get the ball rolling on a snow removal project is early in the season. This allows you to secure a spot in your contractor’s schedule so that you receive the prompt and reliable service you need. Harris-Dudley, for example, offers clients priority snow removal services based on their booking date, so the earlier you book your services, the more likely it is that you’ll have them available.
You also want to ensure that your snow removal crew is fully prepared for the upcoming winter weather events. This means conducting pre-season site visits so that they can familiarize themselves with the layout of driveways, walkways, and other obstacles, as well as any equipment that might need to be used. It’s also a good idea to check and tune-up any machinery that will be used for snow removal in order to ensure it is running properly and won’t be subject to any mechanical failures when the weather turns nasty.
For commercial properties, it’s important to plan ahead for snow events because they can disrupt business operations and lead to a loss of revenue. Employees may not be able to safely make their way to work, and customers could experience delays in product delivery or service. Moreover, snow and ice can increase the risk of accidents and injuries that can cause a negative impact on brand reputation.
The right snow plowing service can help mitigate these issues. By scheduling snow removal in advance, you can avoid the immediate disruption and long-term impacts on your business. Choosing the right snow removal services depends on a number of factors, including where you live and how frequently you need services. For instance, if you only need to remove snow after major storms, it makes more sense to choose per-push or event pricing rather than a seasonal contract. On the other hand, if you live in an area that experiences frequent heavy snowfall, a contract might be a better option.
Take Advantage of Natural Breaks
If possible, try to schedule your snow removal services before the first snowfall. This will help ensure that your property is covered on a consistent basis throughout the winter. Additionally, booking early gives you priority and can save you money by reducing the number of trips needed to clear your space.
Snow removal is a labor-intensive process, and if you don’t plan ahead, it can quickly add up. Having a cash cushion can help you cover expenses like overtime hours, equipment repairs, and refueling your trucks. It’s also a good idea to have extra money on hand in case you experience unexpected expenses, like replacing a broken plow blade or stocking up on salt.
Once the snow starts falling, you’ll need to get your crew out there and work as efficiently as possible. One way to do this is to take advantage of natural breaks in the storm. During these pauses, you can clear smaller amounts of snow, which prevents it from piling up and becoming more difficult to move.
It’s also important to map out zones when clearing large properties, such as parking lots or business parking areas. This way, you can prioritize the most crucial areas first and return later to clear the rest of the property. It’s also helpful to use efficient shoveling techniques, such as pushing snow towards the outer edges or designated piles, rather than lifting heavy, bulky stacks of snow.
If you’re offering different packages or additional services, such as sanding or salting, it’s easier to sell these during the fall season. This allows you to set expectations with customers before they book and ensures that they’re getting the exact service they need.
You can even create a quote template with optional add-ons and service packages to make quoting faster and easier. When a new request comes in, you can automatically schedule a site assessment and attach photos directly to the customer’s file with a quoting system like Jobber. This will help you win more jobs by allowing your customers to select the exact services they need, and you’ll be able to send them a professional quote before you even leave their property!
Pre-treat Surfaces
While snow removal might seem straightforward, it requires the right strategy and equipment to be done effectively. By utilizing efficient shoveling techniques and well-designed tools like ergonomic snow shovels, professionals can complete the job faster and with less physical strain, keeping areas safe for the public.
To get the most out of a snow removal team, start by pre-treating surfaces prior to the first flake falling. Using products such as Gemplers Snow Shield prevents snow and ice from bonding to concrete, asphalt, or other surface materials, which makes it easier to clear later. It also helps reduce the amount of de-icing materials needed, minimizing expense and environmental impact.
Another key step is to use a product that melts the snow rather than just pushing it away. When ice forms on sidewalks and parking lots, it creates slippery zones that pose dangers for pedestrians and vehicles. A de-icing product like calcium chloride works at colder temperatures than sodium chloride (rock salt), and can melt ice quickly to improve safety.
Finally, it’s crucial to keep a shovel or snowblower on hand for those tough patches. A plow is typically able to clear all priority I and II streets within 4-8 hours, but a snowstorm with heavy winds or freezing rain can cause isolated slick spots on curves and hills that a shovel might not be able to reach. Having an extra shovel or a bag of salt can make the difference between a dangerous zone and an easy fix.
When it comes to commercial snow removal in Frankfort, Mokena, and New Lenox, it’s important to work smarter instead of harder. By being proactive, leveraging efficient strategies, and equipping the team with the best equipment, professionals can complete the job more quickly and safely, while reducing costs and liability.
To learn more about how to prepare for winter weather and get the most out of your snow removal crew, visit our complete guide to snow management. In addition to tips on when to begin and how to manage foot traffic, this comprehensive guide covers snow removal, snow plowing, ice control, and salting.
Schedule Ahead of Time
For commercial property owners and managers, winter weather can be a major inconvenience. In order to prevent business disruptions, a plan must be put into place before winter arrives. This includes securing a snow removal contract. Skipping this essential step can leave businesses and properties vulnerable to costly fees, delays in service, and other issues.
It is important to choose a snow removal company that is reputable and experienced. Ideally, it should also be familiar with the local area’s climate and seasonal patterns. Choosing the right company will ensure that your property is prioritized when the first snowflakes fall.
A professional snow removal contractor will be able to provide quality service at affordable prices. This is why it is best to book services well before the winter weather begins. This allows business owners and property management to lock in competitive pricing and secure their spot on the snow removal schedule.
One of the biggest mistakes business owners and property managers make is waiting until the snow starts falling to seek out snow removal services. This often leads to inflated prices, long wait times for service, and limited options for pre-treatments (such as salting or deicing).
The sooner you can clear your property of snow, the less disruption it will cause. This is particularly important when it comes to parking lots and sidewalks, where snow accumulations can pose a risk to pedestrians and vehicles. By utilizing efficient shoveling techniques and having the proper tools (like Gemplers’ ergonomic snow shovels), you can save time and energy while reducing the risk of injury and fatigue.
In addition to clearing snow and ice, many commercial property owners and managers also use the service to salt and/or sand surfaces in their areas. This reduces the risk of slips, falls, and injuries while also improving the appearance of your business or property.
When selecting a snow removal service, it is important to consider whether to opt for pay-per-event or sign up for a seasonal contract. Depending on your location and typical weather patterns, either option may be beneficial for you and your business.
