5 Unknown Tips For Using Snow Blowers On Gravel Driveways

Until you recall that your car, so snugly tucked in your gravel driveway, is also swathed under this chilly embrace. If you’ve ever wondered, “can you use snow blower on gravel driveway” – well, I’m here to spill the beans.

Why Use a Snow Blower on Gravel?

Gravel driveways are tricky when it comes to snow removal. Unlike smooth surfaces, gravel can easily be thrown around by the wrong type of snow blower. Using a single-stage blower is a no-go—it tends to scoop up the gravel, which can damage windows, cars, and even hurt someone. This is why many people recommend a two-stage snow blower for gravel or even a three-stage snow blower for gravel.

However, let’s be real—snow blowers can be a hefty investment, and they require regular maintenance to perform efficiently. That’s why it’s crucial to consider if this solution is genuinely worth the cost and the trouble, or if there’s a better alternative for your needs.

1. The Lift And Skid Shoes Strategy

The first order of business? Adjusting the skid shoes. I bet not many people told you about the magic of lifting the blower just high enough. Maybe you’re still wondering- can you use snow blower on gravel driveway. You don’t want to suck up gravel, but also, don’t leave it so high that it doesn’t serve its purpose. A slight height adjustment might seem insignificant, but believe me, it’s the unsung hero in this snowy opera.

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2. Know Thy Blower!

Snow blowers aren’t all built equal. If your machine is a single-stage blower, tread with caution. Their rubber-tipped augers are in direct contact with the ground. While that’s splendid for pavements, on gravel? Well, you might end up launching more than just snow. Double-stage blowers? Those are your gravel driveway’s best friends. They give you more control and, if used right, won’t spit out your driveway stones.

The Two-Stage Snow Blower for Gravel: An Okay Option

A two-stage snow blower for gravel works by using both an auger and an impeller to move snow without directly scraping the ground. The adjustable skid shoes lift the auger, ensuring that the gravel remains untouched, which means fewer flying stones. While this is helpful, these machines are still bulky, require fuel, and demand quite a bit of upkeep. Plus, they only deal with snow—they won’t prevent ice from forming afterward.

This is where Safe Paw comes in as a strong complementary solution. Unlike rock salt or other harmful chemicals that might damage your driveway or harm pets, Safe Paw is non-toxic and eco-friendly. It’s an ideal way to keep your driveway ice-free after clearing the snow, without the environmental and health risks of traditional methods.

Three-Stage Snow Blower: Extra Power, Extra Problems?

Now, if you’re dealing with heavy snow or a large area, you might be tempted to consider a three-stage snow blower for gravel. These machines add an accelerator to the mix, making them faster at clearing thick, compacted snow. Sounds perfect, right? Well, not quite. They’re even more expensive, require more maintenance, and consume a lot of fuel—raising questions about their cost-effectiveness and environmental impact.

Instead of investing thousands of dollars into a massive machine, you could pair a reasonably priced two-stage blower with Safe Paw. Safe Paw ensures your driveway remains free of dangerous ice without harming your property. Unlike aggressive salts that corrode and degrade surfaces, Safe Paw preserves the integrity of your driveway, saving you from long-term repair costs.

3. Pre-Winter Gravel Prep

Ah, the classic “a stitch in time saves nine.” Before winter makes its grand entrance, take time to level out your driveway. Those little gravel mounds and dips? They’re a snow blower’s worst nightmare. Also, maybe throw in some markers on the driveway’s edges. When everything’s under the snow, these will be your guiding stars.

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4. The Gravel Dust Situation

After we’ve tackled your query- can you use snow blower on gravel driveway”, let’s talk about your next query, “gravel road dust control near me,” sneaks in. The frosty months may freeze everything, but when that snow melts? Hello, muddy mayhem! And the dust that follows once the waters recede is nobody’s dream. Managing this, especially if you have a long gravel stretch, might have you rummaging through local listings for solutions. And while we’re in problem-solving mode, remember the aftermath of clearing the snow? The icy residue that lingers menacingly?

Introducing Safe Paw

You might be wondering why I’m plugging in an ice melt recommendation amidst a snow blower how-to. Bear with me. Safe Paw, a chemical and toxin-free ice melt, is a game-changer. Picture this: post snow blowing, your driveway has patches of ice – the kind that makes you do an unintentional moonwalk. With Safe Paw, not only do you protect your driveway from corrosive chemicals, but it also guarantees safety for your pets. And here’s the icing on the cake – or should I say, the melt on the ice? It works splendidly even at -2°F! And with an impressive spread rate, a little goes a long way.

Gaia Enterprises Inc. delivers 100% pet-safe and environmentally friendly winter products. Safe Paw, our flagship product, is the #1 selling pet-safe ice melt that does not harm pets, safe if ingested, and safe on all types of concrete.

5. Post-Snow Blowing Maintenance

After the snow, comes the slush. And with it? Potholes and depressions. Ensure you do a quick survey after each snow blower session. Early detection of any issues saves you a whole lot of time and money come spring.

Wrapping It Up

So, gravel driveways and snow blowers – it’s not the impossible love story it seems. Like any gadget, it’s all about knowing how to use it best. And while you’re at it, ensuring you’re equipped to deal with the after-effects is just as essential. Whether it’s ensuring the safety of the icy aftermath with Safe Paw or keeping that gravel dust in check – a little foresight goes a long, long way.

Drive safe, or should I say, snow blow safe! And when in doubt, sprinkle a little Safe Paw magic. Winter’s got nothing on you.

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