Removing Snow From Your Driveway

Living in Highlands Ranch, CO, you’re no stranger to snowy winters. With an average snowfall of around 70 inches each year, keeping your driveway clear can feel like a daunting task. But with the right tools and techniques, you can make snow removal much easier and more efficient. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you effectively remove snow from your driveway while preserving your back and your driveway’s surface.

1. Start Early and Often

Colorado's winter storms can be relentless, typically seeing significant snowfall between November and March. With storms often dropping several inches or more in a short time, don’t wait until the snow piles up, which can make snow removal much harder. Start clearing your driveway early, especially if heavy snow is forecasted. Highlands Ranch often sees snowfalls overnight, so aim to shovel early in the morning before the snow compacts and becomes ice. Shoveling smaller amounts multiple times is easier than tackling several inches at once.

2. Choose the Right Tools for the Job

The right tools can make all the difference:

• Snow Shovel: A sturdy, ergonomic shovel is essential for Highlands Ranch homeowners. Choose a lightweight, curved-handle shovel to reduce strain on your back. You might also want a metal-edged shovel to better handle hard-packed snow.
• Snowblower: If you have a larger driveway or simply want to make life easier, consider investing in a snowblower. A two-stage snowblower is ideal for heavier snowfalls like those common in Highlands Ranch. 
• Ice Melt: Not all ice melt is created equal. In Highlands Ranch, the cold temperatures and frequent storms make it necessary to use products that work effectively below freezing. Look for pet-friendly or environmentally safe options that can handle temperatures down to -10°F.

3. Shovel in the Right Pattern

The way you shovel can save you time and effort. Here’s how:

• Shovel with the Wind: Snowstorms in Highlands Ranch tend to blow in from the north or west. To avoid snow blowing back into your face, shovel with the wind at your back.
• Create a Path: Start by clearing a narrow path down the middle of your driveway. This gives you a place to push snow from the sides rather than lifting heavy piles. From there, work your way outwards, pushing the snow to the edges of your driveway.
• Don’t Block the Street*: It’s tempting to push all the snow into the street, but this can cause dangerous ice patches. Plus, snowplows will likely push it right back into your driveway. Instead, pile snow to the sides or corners of your driveway.

Take Local Regulations Into Consideration

*Highlands Ranch is governed by Douglas County regulations when it comes to snow removal. Homeowners are generally responsible for clearing snow from sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours after snowfall. It’s not just about safety but also ensuring that public walkways are accessible for neighbors, especially those who rely on clear paths for mobility.

Additionally, it’s important to note that shoveling snow into the street is against county rules. Keep the snow on your property to avoid fines and maintain clear roads for everyone.

4. Protect Your Landscaping

The beauty of Highlands Ranch often extends beyond the driveway to well-manicured lawns and gardens. When removing snow, be mindful of where you pile it. Avoid dumping large amounts of snow on delicate shrubs or garden beds, as the weight and moisture can damage plants. Consider marking areas of your yard with stakes to avoid unintentional damage to landscaping hidden beneath the snow.

5. De-Icing Techniques

Due to Highlands Ranch's elevation (around 5,920 feet), temperatures can fluctuate rapidly. You might experience a freeze-thaw cycle, where daytime melt refreezes at night. To prevent dangerous ice buildup on your driveway, apply a de-icer immediately after clearing snow. Traditional rock salt works well, but be mindful of where you place it—too much salt can damage concrete and harm your landscaping. 

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Ice Melt Salt

• Sand: Provides traction on icy surfaces without chemicals. However, it doesn't melt ice, so it should be used alongside other methods.
• Kitty Litter: Adds traction on icy areas and absorbs moisture, but doesn't melt ice. Choose natural, biodegradable varieties.
• Coffee Grounds: Reused coffee grounds provide traction and contain small amounts of natural chemicals that help with melting.
• Beet Juice: Mixed with brine, beet juice lowers the freezing point of water and is less harmful to plants and pets.
• Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): A biodegradable, salt-free alternative that effectively melts ice without damaging concrete, plants, or pets.
• Alfalfa Meal: A natural fertilizer that also helps with traction on ice. It’s environmentally friendly and safe for plants and pets.
• Sugar Beet Molasses: Often combined with brine or sand, it lowers the freezing point of water and reduces environmental impact.
• Wood Ash: Adds traction and slightly melts ice due to its potassium content. It’s a natural, compostable option.
• Heated Driveways: A long-term solution that uses radiant heat to keep surfaces ice-free without chemicals.

These eco-friendly alternatives help prevent environmental damage and protect pets, plants, and surfaces while still providing effective snow and ice management.

6. Plan for Drainage

With Colorado’s infamous sunshine, your driveway will often melt quickly after a snowstorm. However, it’s important to plan for where that meltwater will go. Ensuring that your driveway has proper drainage will help prevent icy conditions later.

7. Break Up Ice with a Scraper

If you miss a snowstorm or if your driveway ices over during the night, you may need to break up the ice before it causes problems. Use a metal ice scraper to break up thick layers of ice, especially in shaded areas where ice can linger. Highlands Ranch can have sunny days following a snowstorm, but shaded spots might stay icy without extra effort.

8. Prevent Snow from Re-Freezing

In Highlands Ranch, temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. After you’ve shoveled, there’s a good chance that snow melt will occur, especially during sunny winter days. To prevent melted snow from refreezing overnight, focus on clearing the entire driveway, down to the pavement, and consider applying a layer of salt or sand in high-traffic areas like your driveway apron.

9. Don’t Forget the Driveway Edges

Often, homeowners neglect the edges of their driveways. This can lead to snow and ice buildup over time, which makes future shoveling harder. Take a few minutes to shovel or snow blow the edges and sides of the driveway to keep the snow from creeping inward.

10. Prepare for the Next Snowfall

Highlands Ranch often sees back-to-back snowstorms, so it’s wise to be prepared for the next round of snow. After clearing your driveway, store your snow shovels and equipment in an easily accessible location. You may also want to keep a supply of ice melt handy, as the weather in Highlands Ranch can change quickly. Reapplying salt or sand before the next snowstorm can help prevent ice buildup and make future snow removal easier.

11. Long-Term Solutions: Snow Melting Systems

If you want a permanent solution, consider investing in a snow-melting system. While this option requires an upfront investment, it can save you from costly driveway repairs caused by freeze-thaw cycles. Electric and hydronic systems heat the driveway surface to prevent snow accumulation, allowing you to enjoy a clear driveway with minimal effort.

Local Tip: Dealing with Heavy, Wet Snow

Highlands Ranch sometimes gets hit with heavy, wet snow, especially during early spring storms. This type of snow is much heavier to shovel and can cause strain on your back. When you’re dealing with wet snow:

• Push, Don’t Lift: Whenever possible, push the snow to the sides rather than lifting it. If you do need to lift, take smaller loads to avoid overstraining yourself.
• Work in Layers: Instead of shoveling all the way down to the pavement in one scoop, work in layers by removing the top layer first and working your way down.
• Don’t Overdue It: Take frequent breaks, especially if the snow is wet and heavy, which can put added strain on your back and heart.
• Wear Socks Over Your Shoes: For a low-cost safety measure, try wearing socks over your shoes while clearing the driveway. This can give you extra traction and reduce the risk of slipping on icy surfaces.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe!

Snow removal is a necessary part of winter living in Highlands Ranch, but it’s important to do it safely. Dress in layers to stay warm, wear sturdy, non-slip boots to avoid falls, and take breaks to avoid overexertion. Clearing your driveway properly not only makes getting in and out of your home easier, but it also helps prevent accidents and prolongs the life of your driveway.

If your driveway is too large or the snow is too heavy, our professional snow removal service in Highlands Ranch is just a call away. Metropolitan Total Property, Inc. offers residential snow removal tailored to the needs of our region. Our services can save you time and reduce the risk of injury, especially during Colorado’s heavier snowfalls. Contact our team today!