Winter snow and ice have fallen upon us now and as the fall season winds down and everyone is concentrating on the holidays it is important to consider your home maintenance needs as the winter season approaches.
After an extremely mild winter and an unseasonably hot summer we have experienced recently it is easy to assume that this is in fact a trend and there is really no need to have much of a plan in place for snow and ice removal. This often is ones first mistake and we find ourselves hurried at the last minute to get prepared or have a contractor in place to handle our needs.
Having equipment checked and ready, and ice melt materials on hand, is a great step for being prepared for the first winter weather event. If you have a snow blower it should be started, the oil checked and changed, and a new spark plug installed. Make sure that all moving parts are functioning properly. Snow shovels should be checked for loose handles and blades. The blade should be sharpened as well. It is also a good idea to have some ice melt material at your finger tips so you don’t have to fight the mad rush after the first snowflakes fall.
There are many different ice melt materials on the market today and they all work at different temperatures and on different surfaces. In general, a sodium, potassium, and magnesium mixture will work for temperatures below zero. They leave no residue and are safe on concrete over two years old, but, should not be used on brick or natural stone surfaces or on surfaces with mortar joints. Rock salt products are cheaper in price and will work at temperatures 5 degrees or above. They should not be used on concrete surfaces less than a year old or on any brick or natural stone surfaces. As always it is best to read the label before you apply.
If you are not one who has the time to cope with removal on your own it is time to line up your contractor. Make a plan with all the appropriate parameters considered. Every property is different and every client has different needs. It is important that the contractor visually sees the site before the first snow falls so important details can be discussed and duly noted. Most contractors work on snow fall minimums and hourly rates, so, this is important to discuss as well.
We have been in the snow removal business for fifteen years and can provide all plowing and ice melting needs you may have. We pride ourselves on fast, reliable, and detailed service to meet your needs. We also offer an ice melt product that is safe for use on natural stone, brick, concrete pavers and mortared surfaces. It is also safe for use around children and pets. Our personnel and equipment are ready now for the first sign of snow. If we can be of service to you please give us a call.
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