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What Homeowners Get Wrong About Snow Removal
In the heart of a snowy Durham Region winter, staying ahead of snow and ice takes more than a quick shovel or a dash of salt. At T.A.P Landscaping, we’ve seen the same challenges come up time and time again.
Homeowners with the best of intentions often make simple mistakes that lead to extra work, slippery driveways, or even damage over time. In this post, we’ll explore the most common missteps and offer practical ways to avoid them.
The joys of DYI shoveling in a Durham Region winter.
1. Waiting Too Long to Act
1. Waiting Too Long to Act
One of the biggest mistakes is waiting until the snow has fully stopped before starting removal. A foot of snow is much harder to handle than a few smaller passes during a snowfall.
When snow sits too long, it compacts and freezes to the surface below. This makes shoveling tougher, encourages icy patches, and increases the amount of salt you’ll need later. Clearing early and often keeps surfaces manageable and reduces buildup.
2. Over-Salting or Under-Salting
2. Over-Salting or Under-Salting
Salt is useful, but only when it’s used properly. Many homeowners throw down far too much rock salt or apply it at the wrong time. This not only wastes money but can damage concrete and nearby plants.
Others wait until ice has already formed and try to fix the problem with a heavy coat, which is often less effective. T.A.P uses magnesium-treated salt, which activates quickly, sticks better, and works in colder temperatures. It's pre-measured in sealed buckets, making it easier to use correctly.
You can order your own salt here, and we'll deliver it to your door!
3. Relying on On-Demand Plowing
3. Relying on On-Demand Plowing
Some people wait until after a storm to call a snow removal company, hoping for a same-day visit. During peak snowfall, this strategy rarely works.
Route-based service providers like T.A.P prioritize clients who sign up in advance. That means guaranteed attention during and after snow events, while one-time requests may be delayed or declined altogether. Planning ahead ensures consistent access and avoids the frustration of long waits.
4. Forgetting About Drainage and Pile Placement
4. Forgetting About Drainage and Pile Placement
Where you move your snow matters. Piling it in front of downspouts or over foundation edges can lead to water damage during thaw cycles. Blocking sightlines or mailbox access creates hazards or headaches for others.
T.A.P’s crews are trained to move snow strategically, keeping safety, drainage, and visibility in mind. We help protect your property from both immediate and long-term issues.
5. Not Thinking Ahead to Refreeze
5. Not Thinking Ahead to Refreeze
Clearing snow is just the first step. As temperatures shift, meltwater can refreeze into black ice, especially overnight. Homeowners often overlook this risk or fail to apply follow-up salt in time.
Using a treated salt product that continues working after application, even in subzero conditions, adds a layer of protection when the sun goes down.
Avoiding Mistakes Starts with the Right Partner
Avoiding Mistakes Starts with the Right Partner
Winter maintenance does not need to be overwhelming. With the right timing, materials, and experience, your driveway can stay safer all season long.
T.A.P Landscaping provides reliable snow removal and magnesium-treated salt across Durham Region. We offer seasonal contracts, refill options, and sealed bucket delivery to make winter easier.
Need reliable help this winter?
Need reliable help this winter?
Contact T.A.P Landscaping for residential snow removal or salt bucket delivery today.
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