Winter in Ludington, MI, brings heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and the challenge of keeping driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots safe. While many homeowners and businesses take steps to clear snow and apply salt, common mistakes can reduce effectiveness, increase costs, and even pose safety hazards. Avoiding these mistakes ensures better snow management throughout the season.
1. Over-Salting: More is Not Always Better
Many people assume that using more salt will melt ice faster. However, excessive salting can be wasteful, harm vegetation, damage concrete surfaces, and contaminate local water sources.
Solution:
- Apply salt evenly and in recommended amounts for the best results.
- Depending on the temperature conditions, use the right type of salt. For extremely cold temperatures, calcium chloride or magnesium chloride works better than traditional rock salt.
- Consider pre-treating surfaces before snowfall to prevent ice from forming in the first place.
2. Neglecting to Clear Snow Before It Compacts into Ice
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners and businesses make is allowing snow to sit for too long before removing it. When snow is left unattended, foot traffic and vehicle pressure compact it into ice, making removal more difficult and dangerous.
Solution:
- Shovel or plow as soon as possible after snowfall to prevent accumulation.
- If snow has already compacted into ice, use a combination of ice melt and mechanical removal, such as ice chippers or snow blowers.
- For large commercial properties, schedule professional driveway Ssalting in Ludington, MI with a trusted service provider.
3. Using the Wrong Type of Snow Removal Equipment
Not all snow removal tools are created equal. Using the wrong equipment, such as a metal shovel on a delicate driveway surface, can cause damage. Additionally, plowing with improper techniques can leave uneven patches of snow and ice.
Solution:
- Choose the right tools for the job: plastic shovels for delicate surfaces, snow blowers for larger areas, and properly calibrated plows for commercial properties.
- If using a plow, ensure that the blade is set at the correct height to avoid damaging pavement or landscaping.
- Hire Preferred Lawn Care for sidewalk salting in Ludington, MI to ensure safe, even application without surface damage.
4. Waiting Too Long to Salt
Many people wait until ice has already formed before applying salt, reducing its effectiveness. Once the ice has thickened, salt takes much longer to penetrate and melt it.
Solution:
- Apply salt before snow starts to accumulate to prevent ice formation. This is called "pre-treating" and is an effective way to keep walkways and driveways safer.
- Reapply salt after clearing snow to maintain traction and prevent refreezing.
5. Failing to Consider the Environmental Impact
While salt is effective in melting ice, improper application can cause harm to the environment. Runoff from salted areas can enter nearby water sources, leading to contamination. Additionally, salt can damage plants, lawns, and soil.
Solution:
- Use eco-friendly de-icing alternatives, such as sand, beet juice-based de-icers, or calcium magnesium acetate.
- Only apply salt where necessary and avoid overspreading onto grass or vegetation.
- Sweep up excess salt after ice has melted to prevent unnecessary waste and environmental damage.
6. Not Scheduling Professional Snow Removal Services
Managing snow and ice removal on your own can be time-consuming and challenging, especially during heavy storms. Without proper equipment and techniques, it’s easy to overlook essential steps, leading to unsafe conditions.
Solution:
- Contact Preferred Lawn Care, your trusted salting and snow removal service provider in Ludington, MI.
- Our team provides efficient, reliable driveway and sidewalk salting in Ludington, MI, ensuring safe and accessible pathways throughout the winter season.
- We use professional equipment and proper salting techniques to prevent ice buildup and reduce hazards.
Your Trusted Salting and Snow Removal Service Provider
Avoiding these common mistakes ensures your property remains safe and accessible all winter long. If you need professional driveway or sidewalk salting in Ludington, MI, Preferred Lawn Care is here to keep your home or business safe and accessible during the snowy months.
Call us today at 231-638-5368 or fill out our online form for a free, no-obligation quote. Let our experienced professionals provide you with peace of mind and outstanding service throughout the winter season!
