Anyone who lives in the coldest parts of America knows about the hassle of shoveling snow. It is a major chore that can take forever and cause major stress and back pain.
However, it is important to know that you don't have to break your back to clean off your driveway or sidewalk. You just need a few tips. Below we will talk about some inexpensive tools and techniques to remove snow without a shovel.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Be Proactive Before the Storm
If you live in a snowy climate, you likely always have your ear on the Weather Channel, so you know when a chance of snow is likely. By being proactive and taking a second to try these steps, you can make the snow go away very quickly or not have to shovel at all!
Rock Salt
The easiest way to melt snow before it accumulates is by putting rock salt on your driveway the night before a big storm. When you spread this around, the snow doesn't stick, and even if it does buildup, it can be easily cleaned.
Tarp
Another great idea before a big snowfall is to put a tarp on your driveway or sidewalk. This the best approach when you are expecting several inches.
The snow will build up on the tarp, and then you can just pull it off of your driveway.
Heated Mat
If you like the idea of the tarp but don't want to lug around the snow, then buy some heated mats.
You can place one on the sidewalk or several on the driveway, and they will melt 2 inches of snow per hour. When you wake up in the morning, you can walk or drive away without fear of slipping or shoveling.
2. Leaf Blower
A leaf blower can make cleaning snow off of your driveway a breeze without you having to bend down.
Leaf blowers are especially great if you have 3 inches or less of snow. However, the best thing is that you can go out and blow off the snow as it comes down so you can ensure that you can exit your driveway in the morning.
The best thing about leaf blowers is that they are relatively inexpensive. Below are two models that will make your life easier for under $100.
3. If Shoveling Is The Only Answer, Make It Easier!
If these ideas aren't doing anything for you or you just know that shoveling is the only way to get rid of that pesky snow, then you can at least make the job easier.
Spray The Shovel With Crooking Spray
With a coat of cooking spray, your shovel will glide through the snow. Then, when you get to the end of a row, the snow you have collected won't stick. It will slide right off!
With a bit of this spray, you will cut your shoveling time in half.
Try An Ergonomic Shovel and Protect Your Back
While cleaning snow is a chore, the worst part is how your back can start to hurt after only a few minutes. There is just too much bending over!
You can fix this with an ergonomic shovel that provides an extra handle and protects your body.
The modified shovels above are both great options.
If you have a shovel that you use often, you can also add a handle to the perfect place so that you are not hurting your back.
We have probably just reached the tip of the iceberg when it comes to snow cleaning hacks during those long winter months. What ideas do you recommend? Help your fellow readers in the comments!