Plowing Snow: Techniques, Equipment, and Tips for Efficient Snow Removal

[MikePhua]

Snow removal is an essential task for many regions around the world, especially in areas that experience harsh winter conditions. Whether it’s clearing driveways, streets, or parking lots, proper snow plowing can make the difference between efficient service and expensive delays. This guide offers insight into the various techniques, tools, and considerations for effective snow plowing, based on professional experiences and advice.
Types of Snow Plowing Equipment
There is a wide variety of snow plowing equipment used, ranging from small snowblowers to large-scale plows used by municipalities. The type of equipment chosen often depends on the area to be plowed and the severity of the snowstorm.
1. Snow Plows
Snow plows are large, heavy-duty machines commonly mounted on trucks or tractors. These are the most frequently used snow removal equipment, especially for larger areas like streets, highways, and parking lots. Snow plows come in several different types:

• Straight Blade Plows: These are the most common plows, featuring a simple straight blade that pushes snow forward. They are ideal for open roads and highways.
  
• V-Plows: V-shaped plows are versatile and excellent for handling deep snow and creating a wider path. Their ability to plow in multiple directions makes them suitable for areas with heavy snow accumulation.
  
• Wing Plows: Wing plows are used alongside straight blade plows to increase the width of the plowing path. They are helpful in widening already cleared roads or paths, especially in narrow spaces like residential streets.
  

2. Snow Blowers
Snow blowers are smaller machines that use a spinning auger to gather and throw snow out of the way. They are ideal for smaller, more confined spaces, such as driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots.

• Single-Stage Snow Blowers: These are compact and ideal for lighter snow. They collect snow and expel it through a chute.
  
• Two-Stage Snow Blowers: More powerful than single-stage models, these blowers feature both an auger and an impeller, making them perfect for deep snow and larger areas.
  

3. Skid Steer Loaders and Tractors
Skid steer loaders and compact tractors are also commonly used for snow removal. They are incredibly versatile, offering various attachments like snow blades, buckets, and even snow blowers for handling different snow conditions. These machines are often used in residential areas or tight spaces where larger plows can’t operate.
4. Snowplow Trucks
Specialized snowplow trucks, often mounted on four-wheel-drive or heavy-duty trucks, are equipped with a blade or multiple blades to clear large areas. These trucks are equipped with both snow plowing and salting capabilities, allowing operators to manage not only snow but also icy conditions. They are often seen on highways and city streets during major snowstorms.
Plowing Techniques
Once the right equipment is chosen, it’s important to adopt effective plowing techniques to maximize efficiency and minimize damage to both the equipment and the surface being cleared. Here are some key strategies for successful snow removal.
1. Plowing Strategy
The way you approach snow plowing can make a huge difference in both the speed and effectiveness of the process. Here are some common strategies:

• Windrow Plowing: This technique involves pushing the snow to the side, creating long ridges or windrows along the edge of the cleared path. This is typically used on roads and highways. However, windrow plowing can sometimes result in piles of snow that become difficult to manage later on.
  
• Cutting the Path: Another technique is cutting a path down the center of the area to be plowed and then moving outward, similar to cutting through a forest. This method is often used when plowing parking lots or driveways, where you need to ensure access to all areas.
  
• V-Shaped Plowing: As mentioned earlier, V-plows can be used to clear snow in a triangular shape. This technique is ideal for heavy snow or large piles where a direct, straight push is difficult. V-shaped plowing moves snow to the side more efficiently, creating a wider opening for further plowing.
  

2. Time and Weather Considerations
The timing of snow removal plays an important role in both its effectiveness and cost-efficiency. Here are some considerations:

• Plow Early and Often: It’s important to begin plowing early in a snowstorm and to plow frequently if possible. Continuous snow accumulation can make plowing more difficult later, especially if the snow turns into slush or ice.
  
• Avoid Plowing During the Storm: Sometimes, it’s better to wait until the snow has stopped falling to plow, particularly in extreme conditions. Plowing during heavy snowfall can result in snow being pushed back into already cleared areas, creating more work in the long run.
  

3. Managing Ice and Slush
Once snow has been cleared, icy or slushy conditions may remain, making surfaces slippery and hazardous. To combat this, salt or sand can be spread on the cleared areas. Salt works well in melting ice and snow but is most effective when temperatures are above 20°F (-6°C). Sand provides better traction but doesn’t melt snow.
Safety Considerations
Plowing snow, while necessary, can be dangerous due to visibility issues, cold temperatures, and slippery surfaces. Both operators and pedestrians should take precautions to prevent accidents.
1. Operator Safety

• Visibility: Snowplow operators should ensure they have clear visibility from their cabs, which might involve maintaining clean windows and ensuring that mirrors and lights are functioning properly.
  
• Heated Equipment: Cold weather can make working conditions uncomfortable and even dangerous. It’s advisable to use equipment that has heating systems to keep the operator warm during extended hours outside.
  
• Avoiding Overloading: Overloading a plow truck or machine can affect performance and lead to costly breakdowns. Operators should adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal weight and load management.
  

2. Safety Around the Equipment

• Barricades and Cones: When plowing in public spaces like parking lots or streets, it’s important to mark off the work area with cones or other barriers to keep pedestrians or vehicles away from the machine.
  
• Slow and Steady: Speeding while plowing may result in accidents or poorly cleared areas. Operating the machinery at a moderate pace ensures the safety of both the operator and anyone nearby.
  

Additional Tips for Effective Snow Removal

• Routine Equipment Maintenance: Keeping your equipment in top shape is essential for reliability during snowstorms. Ensure that all components, such as hydraulics, tires, and electrical systems, are regularly inspected and maintained.
  
• Proper Blade Angle: Adjusting the angle of the snowplow blade based on snow conditions will improve the quality of your plowing. For deep snow, use a steeper angle to push the snow further to the side.
  
• Adjusting to Surface Type: When plowing surfaces like gravel, concrete, or asphalt, make sure to adjust the height of the blade to avoid damage to the surface while ensuring effective snow removal.
  

Conclusion
Snow plowing is an essential task for ensuring safety and accessibility during winter months. With the right equipment, techniques, and safety measures in place, snow removal can be efficient and effective. Whether you are operating a small snowblower or a large truck-mounted plow, understanding the basics of snow plowing, choosing the right equipment, and utilizing best practices will help you get the job done safely and effectively.
Snow removal may seem like a simple task, but as with any type of machinery operation, proper training and knowledge of the equipment and environmental conditions are key to success. Whether plowing residential streets or industrial sites, a well-planned approach and proper equipment maintenance can make all the difference.