By Rich Blankenship
As the fall season winds down and holiday plantings and decorations are installed, it is important to not overlook home maintenance needs as the winter season approaches. After an extremely mild winter and an unseasonably hot summer, it is easy to assume that this is in fact a trend and there is really no need to have a plan in place for winter snow and ice removal. This often is a big mistake and we find ourselves hurried at the last minute to get prepared for winter weather, or have a contractor in place to handle our needs.
Having equipment serviced and ready to perform is a must. Snow blowers should be serviced and ready to go long before winter weather arrives. Snow shovels should be checked for loose handles and blades should be sharpened. It is also a good idea to have some ice melt material at your fingertips so you don’t have to fight the mad rush to the hardware store after the first snowfall.
Make sure you have snow and ice melt materials on hand. There are many different ice melt materials on the market today and they all work at different temperatures and on different surfaces. As a general rule a sodium, potassium, and magnesium mixture will work for temperatures below zero. It leaves no residue and is safe on concrete over two years old. It should not be used on brick, natural stone surfaces, or on surfaces with mortar joints. These sulphate mixtures are typically more expensive, but require less product for surface coverage than other products. 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 snow and ice removal on your own it is time to line up a contractor so a plan can be discussed. Every property is different and every client has different needs. It is important for the contractor to visually see the site before the first snow falls so important details can be noted. Most contractors work on snow fall minimums and hourly rates. This is important to discuss as well.
Mark M. Holeman Inc. has been in the snow removal business for fifteen years and can provide all plowing and ice melting services you may require. We pride ourselves on fast, reliable, and detailed service. 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.