How to Prepare Your Property for Professional Snow Removal?

Living in Fredericton means dealing with significant snowfall each winter. Whether you own a cozy home or manage commercial property, preparing for professional snow removal is crucial for maintaining safety and accessibility. With average winter snowfall exceeding 250 centimeters, having a reliable snow removal plan isn’t just convenient – it’s essential. By taking the right steps to prepare your property, you can ensure efficient service and prevent potential damage during the clearing process.

Assess your property needs

To determine your property’s snow removal needs, consider factors such as the size and layout of your property, the slope of your driveway or walkways, and the presence of obstacles like trees, fences, or landscaping features. These elements can impact the time and effort required for snow removal and may require specialized equipment or techniques.

Also identify the areas of your residential and commercial property that are most critical for safe access. These typically include driveways, parking lots, walkways, and steps leading to entrances. Prioritize these areas for snow removal to ensure that you, your family, or your tenants can safely enter and exit the property.

Get help from a Pro

If your property has a complex layout or unique challenges, consider consulting with a professional snow removal company in Fredericton to assess your needs. They can provide expert advice on the best approach to snow removal, recommend appropriate equipment or products, and help you develop a customized plan for your property.

Winterizing your property for snow removal

Clear area

Before the snow starts falling, take some time to prepare your property for snow removal. Start by removing any obstacles from your driveway and sidewalks. This will ensure that snow removal equipment can access these areas easily and safely.

Secure outdoor features

To protect your landscaping and outdoor features during snow removal, cover delicate plants with burlap or plastic sheeting, and store outdoor furniture or decorations in a safe place. Make sure to clear areas around sprinkler heads, as these can be easily damaged by snow removal equipment.

Mark boundaries

Mark the boundaries of your driveway and walkway with stakes or flags to help snow removal teams identify the areas that need to be cleared. If there are any hidden hazards on your property, such as speed bumps, drainage grates, or low-hanging branches, make sure to point these out to your snow removal provider so they can take appropriate precautions.

Select a trusted snow and ice removal service

When choosing a residential and commercial snow removal service, consider the following:

Look for local Fredericton snow removal companies with proper insurance, verifiable references, and strong customer reviews. Prioritize services that maintain dedicated snow removal equipment and offer proof of liability coverage.
Verify their business licenses and ask about their crew training procedures. Companies with established roots in Fredericton typically offer more reliable service during peak winter months.
Ask about their response time after snowfall, equipment backup plans, and communication protocols. Discuss their approach to property damage prevention and their policy for marking obstacles.
Inquire about their ice management strategies and the specific products they use. Request details about their storm monitoring process and how they handle service scheduling during major weather events.

Maintain communication with snow removal team

Effective communication is key to a successful snow removal partnership. Establish clear communication channels with your service provider, whether it’s through phone calls, emails, or text messages. Make sure you have their contact information readily available and that they have yours in case of any updates or emergencies.
Keep your snow removal team informed about any changes in your schedule, accessibility needs, or specific preferences. For example, if you plan on having guests over or if there are any areas of your property that require extra attention, let your provider know in advance so they can adjust their service accordingly.
In the event of any disputes or issues with your snow removal service, first try to communicate your concerns directly with the provider. Review your contract and discuss any discrepancies or misunderstandings. If the issue cannot be resolved through direct communication, consider involving a mediator or exploring other options outlined in your contract.

Post snow removal property care

Inspection

Conduct thorough property inspections after each snow removal service. Focus on checking your landscaping and hardscaping features for any signs of damage. Look for marks on lawn edges, scrapes on concrete, displaced decorative elements, or damaged sprinkler heads. Pay special attention to areas where heavy equipment operated and spots where snow was piled.

Act quickly on discovered damage

Take immediate action if you discover damage from snow removal operations. Document everything with clear photos, showing the extent of damage from multiple angles. Contact your snow removal contractor promptly to report issues, and maintain written records of all communications. Review your service agreement for damage coverage terms and consider filing an insurance claim if necessary.

Perform regular maintenance

Maintain regular property checks between professional snow and ice removal visits. Apply ice melt products sparingly and according to manufacturer guidelines to prevent surface damage. Keep drainage areas clear of snow and ice accumulation to prevent water damage. Address any winter-related issues quickly to prevent escalation of problems.

Summary

Preparing your Fredericton property for professional snow and ice removal is essential to ensure a safe and accessible environment throughout the winter season.

Assess your property’s unique needs and challenges
Choose a reputable and experienced snow removal company
Prepare your property by clearing obstacles and protecting landscaping
Communicate effectively with your snow removal provider
Inspect your property after snow removal and address any issues promptly

Fredericton’s Snow Removal Experts - Atlantic Hardscape

When winter hits Fredericton, Atlantic Hardscape and Concrete delivers reliable snow removal services for both residential and commercial properties, backed by 15+ years of expertise. Our crew understanding of proper hardscape protection ensures your driveways, parking lots, walkways, and decorative features remain undamaged throughout the snow removal process.

Using advanced equipment and proven techniques, we clear snow thoroughly while protecting your investment. Our comprehensive service includes pre-season property assessment, regular monitoring, and prompt response to snowfall events.

FAQs about preparing property for professional snow removal service

What should you not do when clearing snow?

Do not use hot water to melt snow, as it can refreeze and create a slippery surface. Avoid overexerting yourself when shoveling, and take frequent breaks. Do not pile snow near building foundations or on top of drainage systems.

Should salt be applied before snow falls or after?

Applying salt before snow starts is generally better, as it prevents snow and ice from bonding to surfaces, making removal easier. However, for light snowfalls or extremely cold conditions, salting after may be more effective.

What is the best way to clear snow?

The best way to clear snow depends on the amount of snowfall and the size of the area to be cleared. For small areas, such as walkways and steps, shoveling is often the most effective method. For larger areas, like parking lots and driveways, hiring a professional snow plowing service is recommended. Regardless of the method used, it’s essential to clear snow promptly to prevent ice formation and ensure safe access to your property.