Winter is here in Scarborough, Maine, and the prospect of snow is a matter of fact. 

Clearing snow from your driveway and sidewalks safely and efficiently can be daunting. Fortunately, there are some tried-and-true tips you can use to make the job easier and less time-consuming.

Let’s take a look at what you need to know about residential snow removal in Southern Maine.

1. Equipment & Supplies 

The right equipment makes all the difference when removing snow from your property.

For starters, a shovel is essential — the more lightweight it is, the better. Additionally, if you have a more extensive driveway or sidewalk area, investing in a snow blower can save you time and energy. 

Make sure you have enough rock salt on hand as well; this will help melt away any ice patches that form on your driveway or sidewalks during freezing spells.

2. Timing Matters

It’s best to start clearing snow off your property immediately after it has fallen. This will prevent ice from forming underneath the pile of snow, making removing it easier without damaging your pavement or grass below. 

If you wait too long, the weight of the snow combined with the freezing temperatures can cause damage when you try to move it.

3. Safety First 

When dealing with heavy equipment, like a snow blower, safety should always be your top priority. Wear protective clothing such as gloves, boots, and warm layers while shoveling or blowing; this will keep you safe and comfortable working outside in cold weather conditions. 

Also, be sure to clear away any debris before using any tool; this could prevent injury or damage during the operation. Finally, remember that ice melts faster than snow, so don’t forget about rock salt! 

Man shoveling walkway with high visibility clothing.
Greencare always makes sure our workers are visible when shoveling!

4. Be Careful Not To Pile Snow Close To Your House

One of the best tips you can follow when it comes to snow removal and preventing damage to your home is to avoid putting snow anywhere near your home’s foundation. Piling up large amounts of snow around the base of your home can have disastrous consequences. 

Frozen pipes are just one issue that you can encounter as a result. Additionally, too much weight and pressure from the accumulating snow can actually cause cracks in your foundation walls and potentially destabilize them. Ultimately, too much snow around your home’s foundation leads to much more costly repair bills than you would have experienced by taking a proactive approach!

5. Rake Sloped Roofs

Winter can be a difficult and dangerous season, particularly when it comes to residential snow removal on sloped roofs. While enlisting the help of professionals is always recommended in these cases, homeowners can take some precautionary steps to clear snow by themselves with a roof rake. 

This type of tool is just the thing for safely – and quickly – removing snow from sloped roofs, as its long handle allows users to reach areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. 

Not only does it make removal more accessible and more efficient, but also it helps prevent potential damage caused by excessive build-up of ice and snow on your roof. 

6. Sometimes A Snow Blower is The Way to Go

Investing in a snow blower can be of great benefit when it comes to residential snow removal. Not only does it save time and energy, but it also offers the opportunity to quickly remove large amounts of snow from driveways and walkways. 

Snow blowers are typically easy to use and are powered by electricity or gasoline, depending on your personal preference. Additionally, they are relatively affordable and can often be purchased as used or secondhand items. Ultimately, investing in a snowblower is an effective way to simplify the process of removing large amounts of snow during winter months.

7. Call For Help

Snow removal can be a difficult and dangerous process, often better left to the professionals. Greencare Landscape Management is available in the Scarborough area, specializing in snow removal, that can provide fast and efficient services, regardless of how much is on the ground. 

Prices for snow removal in Maine vary widely depending on the size of the property and its location, but overall it’s quite affordable. Some companies even offer discounts for recurring customers, making it cost-effective in the longer term. Whether you’re a resident or a business owner, snow removal in Maine is simple when you enlist the help of professionals.

Southern Maine snow removal doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these tips for residential snow removal in Scarborough, Maine – equipping yourself with the right tools for the job, timing your work correctly, prioritizing safety, and more – you’ll be able to tackle any winter storm easily! 

If you’ve gotten in too deep, call our snow removal specialists at Greencare Landscape Management to come bail you out. Contact us today for a free estimate.

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