Commercial Snow Removal Equipment: What You Need to Know

As winter approaches, businesses and property managers in snow-prone regions gear up to tackle one common challenge—keeping their properties safe and accessible in snowy conditions. Commercial snow removal equipment plays a crucial role in efficiently clearing snow and ice from parking lots, walkways, and driveways. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential snow removal equipment you need to know about to ensure a smooth and effective snow management process.

Snow Plows

1. Truck-Mounted Plows: These are among the most common snow removal tools for commercial use. They are attached to the front of trucks and are equipped with adjustable blades that can clear large areas quickly. Truck-mounted plows are versatile and suitable for various snow depths.
2. Skid-Steer Loaders with Plow Attachments: Skid-steer loaders equipped with plow attachments are nimble and versatile machines for snow removal. They are ideal for clearing smaller areas, such as sidewalks and tight spaces.
3. Front-End Loaders: These heavy-duty machines are often used for large-scale commercial snow removal operations. Front-end loaders can handle substantial snow accumulation and are commonly used in parking lots and large driveways.

Snow Blowers

1. Walk-Behind Snow Blowers: These smaller, portable machines are suitable for clearing snow from sidewalks and smaller areas. They are operated by a person walking behind the blower and directing the discharge chute.
2. Snow Throwers: Snow throwers, or snow thrower attachments for tractors, are designed to clear snow from driveways and parking lots. They are effective for moderate snowfall but may struggle with heavy accumulations.

Salt Spreaders

Salt spreaders are essential for preventing ice formation on surfaces. There are two primary types:

1. Tailgate Spreaders: These are mounted on the back of trucks and are suitable for treating larger areas like parking lots. They can distribute salt or other de-icing materials evenly.
2. Walk-Behind Spreaders: Smaller properties or areas with limited access may benefit from walk-behind spreaders. They are manually pushed and are ideal for sidewalks and walkways.
3. Snow Pushers and Shovels: While not machinery in the traditional sense, snow pushers and shovels are vital tools for precise snow removal. They are used for detailed cleanup and clearing snow from tight spots that machines can’t reach.

Snow Melting Systems

For some commercial properties, especially those with heavy foot traffic, snow melting systems may be installed beneath surfaces like driveways and walkways. These systems use radiant heat to melt snow and ice, keeping surfaces clear and safe.

ATV/UTV Plows

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) can be equipped with plow attachments for smaller-scale snow removal. They are versatile and maneuverable, making them suitable for clearing snow from sidewalks and smaller parking lots.

Selecting the right commercial snow removal equipment depends on the size and specific needs of your property, as well as the typical snowfall in your region. It’s crucial to invest in reliable and well-maintained equipment to ensure efficient snow management. Additionally, having a clear snow removal plan and, when necessary, enlisting the services of professional snow removal companies like Dubs Property Maintenance, can help ensure your property remains safe and accessible during the winter months. Remember, timely and effective snow removal is not just a matter of convenience but also a matter of safety for employees, customers, and visitors.