Winter might be beautiful, but snow removal? Not so much. Whether you’re dealing with a few inches or a full-blown blizzard, clearing your driveway and sidewalks can be exhausting—and expensive if you’re not strategic.
So as you wait for proper equipment and help to arrive, there are ways to keep costs under control.
Shovel Smart—And Do It Early
One of the easiest ways to cut down on snow removal costs is to stay ahead of the snowfall. It might not be the most fun activity, but grabbing a shovel early can save you both time and money. So:
- Instead of waiting for the snow to pile up, head outside when there’s just a couple of inches. Lighter snow is way easier to move, meaning you won’t have to break your back
- A high-quality, ergonomic shovel can make clearing snow much easier
- A little kitchen hack—spray the shovel with cooking spray before you start. It helps keep the snow from sticking, making the job quicker and reducing the strain on your arms.
Use Low-Cost Alternatives to Salt and Deicers
Rock salt and commercial deicers work well, but they can be pricey—especially if you have a big driveway or frequent snowfalls. Instead, try these cheaper alternatives:
- Sand or kitty litter: These don’t melt snow, but they add traction, reducing the risk of slipping without the high cost of salt.
- Homemade deicer: Mix water, rubbing alcohol, and a few drops of dish soap to create a DIY deicing spray. This can help melt stubborn ice patches without needing expensive store-bought products.
- Ashes from a fireplace: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, sprinkle cooled ashes on icy areas. They provide traction and even help the ice melt faster under the sun.
Not only do these alternatives save money, but they’re also better for the environment than excessive salt use, which can damage driveways, sidewalks, and nearby plants.
Team Up with Neighbors for Discounts or Help
If you live in a neighborhood where snow removal services are a must, consider teaming up with your neighbors to negotiate a better deal. Many companies offer discounts for multiple homes in the same area since it saves them travel time and effort.
- Ask for a group rate. If several neighbors sign up for the same service, you can often get a better price than hiring someone individually.
- Share equipment. If someone in your area owns the right equipment, see if they’re willing to rent or share it instead of everyone buying their own.
- Swap services. If you have a neighbor who’s handy with a snow blower and you’re good at something else (like fixing things or baking awesome cookies), consider a trade!
Snow removal doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Really, a little planning and creativity can go a long way toward keeping your driveway clear—and your wallet full—all winter long!
Veeramachineni Lalitha
I am Finance Content Writer. I write Personal Finance, banking, investment, and insurance related content for top clients including Kotak Mahindra Bank, Edelweiss, ICICI BANK and IDFC FIRST Bank. My experience details : Linkedin