If you live in the right part of the country, snow shoveling is a major part of winter. Here in the Midwest, we spend the months of November through February watching the weather channel and waiting for the next blizzard. However, Mother Nature is full of surprises and sometimes she decides to send a winter storm to an unexpected location like Florida or Texas. Typically there is not much need for a snow shovel in these warm states. So what do you do when your driveway is unexpectedly full of snow? This article will show you how to clear your driveway without a snow shovel.
Tip #1 Lay Down a Tarp
If you know that snow is coming, there is a simple way to prepare, lay a tarp over your driveway. This strange but effective method might get a few strange looks from the neighbors, but once it does snow, all of it will collect on the tarp. Once it stops snowing, all you need to do is remove the tarp to reveal a clean driveway.
Tip #2 Use a Leaf Blower
Leaf blowers aren’t just for fall. If the snow is light and powdery, it can be easily blown away using a leaf blower. This option is convenient, but should only be used for fresh, light snow. If you experience heavy or wet snow, you will have to resort to other methods.
If you live in an area that regularly experiences heavy snow, a snow blower or snow pusher is a solid alternative to the old snow shovel and is easier on your body.
Tip #3 Rock Salt
If the temperatures are right, salt can also be a powerful and inexpensive preventative measure. Rock salt is very different from table salt. When applied before the snow falls, rock salt lowers the freezing point from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 15 degrees. This causes the snow to melt away. For a 20’ driveway, 12 ounces is all you need. However, there is a catch. Rock salt needs to be applied before it starts snowing. Plus, if the temperature drops below 5 degrees Fahrenheit, ice will not melt and will keep forming. Adding sand or ash from your fire pit to your salt can add some much needed traction.
Tip #4 DIY Snow Melt Mixture
Mixing together this concoction is easy and can help melt away the snow. Combine a half gallon of water with a few drops of dish soap and a quarter cup of rubbing alcohol. Because the alcohol has a lower freezing temperature than ice or snow it is able to melt away ice and snow. Once you’ve poured the solution, be sure to sweep away the remaining water with a broom to avoid it melting and new ice from forming. This is also why you shouldn’t use hot water to melt away snow.
Tip #5 Have Fun with It
Many of us have fond memories of snow days in our childhood. There’s no reason why the fun has to end, especially when those activities can serve dual purposes. Gather the kids together and use the snow in your driveway to build snow forts, snowmen and snowballs. All of these activities use up a surprising amount of snow, and even better they will move the snow from your driveway to your yard.
If the weather decides to throw you a curveball and you don’t have the necessary snow removal tools, don’t panic. There are plenty of low-cost, simple methods that you can use to clear your driveway and keep everyone safe from slipping. Still, it doesn’t hurt to invest in a snow pusher or an ice breaker just to be prepared.
For more articles about winterizing your home or garden, check out our Outdoor Living blogs.
