KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – SAFE SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL
KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – SAFE SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL
Chicago had more than 24 inches of snow this year before last weekends’ 10+ inches. That’s a lot of snow! In the city there has been much controversy on the plowing of the side streets. Thankfully Mayor Daley came to his senses and that seems to be getting better.
Warning!! Extreme cold weather is definitely coming this week. If you don’t have your areas cleared it will be virtually impossible after the deep freeze.
Use a melting agent on the sidewalks and driveways. Rock salt is inexpensive and can be used in temperatures as low as 15 degrees. Beware it may damage asphalt and concrete.
Calcium chloride is more expensive especially this year but can be used down to 20 degrees below zero. It will not damage concrete and asphalt. Those of us concerned about pets and landscaping can find products at hardware and pet stores to address this problem.
It’s important that your shovel is at least part metal. You’ll need to scrape up freezing slush and snow and plastic just won’t cut it.
There are many ergonomically designed shovels on the market. Find one that fits you best. Know your limits. Take frequent breaks. There is a reason that heavy wet stuff is called heart attack snow!
Keep an ice chipper on hand. It works great for patches of ice that are too tough to shovel. Crack the ice. This will expose it to more air and hasten melting.
Your best bet is to purchase a small snow blower. Toro and Ariens are two brands I am familiar with.
The small Toro powerlight models are relatively inexpensive although after all this snow I hope they will still be available. They usually come with electric starts and are easy for almost anyone to handle. Speaking from experience I have little trouble handling them.
Good luck and stay warm this week.
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO
