How To Choose The Right Snow Shovel

Winter is approaching quickly. The shoveling season will soon arrive for those of us who live in snowy areas. Now is the time to buy a good snow shovel, but first consider what kind of snow shoveling you’ll be doing, what size blade you’ll need, as the more significant the edge, the heavier the shoveling. Whether you prefer a straight handle or one with a swooshed, ergonomic design to reduce back strain.

Snow shovels are as diverse as the climates in which they are used. The options range from a primary metal blade with a wooden handle to state-of-the-art fiberglass and even shovels on wheels. When it comes to choosing a snow shovel, the consensus is to find one that feels balanced to remove deicers like calcium chloride, Sodium chloride, potassium chloride deicer, etc. Snow shovels come in various basic designs, but the blade and handle are the two most essential components to consider.

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Materials For Snow Shovels

Metal or plastic snow shovel blades are available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some people recommend having two shovels, one metal and one plastic, to accommodate different needs depending on where you’re shoveling and how much snow you’ll be removing. Before you go out and buy a shovel, try to figure out what you need. Will you need to quickly shovel out the sidewalk in front of the house as deicer like potassium chloride deicer damage the surface, kids can walk to school, or will you need to push snow piled up on a deck or down the driveway. 

Examine The Specifications

A shovelful of snow, measuring 1 to 12 cubic feet, can weigh anywhere from 7 to 30 pounds depending on the temperature and amount of moisture in the snow. Because that’s a lot of torque on your back, choosing a curved model or one with the right handle length for your height can make a big difference.

The Size Of The Blade 

is best done with narrower 18-inch shovels. When fully loaded, wider shovels are better for pushing snow down the driveway, but they’re more challenging to lift. Snow shovels with a steel or aluminum blade are suitable for scraping crusty ice off the driveway, but a plain plastic blade won’t scratch wooden steps or decking the way an edged snow shovel would. When digging out drifted-in vehicles, a blade with a flatter design might fit under tires or the undercarriage of your car more quickly.

Effective Snow Shoveling Techniques and Maintenance Advice for a Safer Winter

When winter hits, snow shoveling techniques can make all the difference between a quick, injury-free task and a strenuous experience. By adopting the right techniques, using ergonomic snow shovels, and following simple maintenance steps, you can make snow removal safer and easier.

1. Essential Snow Shoveling Techniques

Mastering the right techniques is key for efficient snow removal and protecting your body from unnecessary strain:

• Push, Don’t Lift: Whenever possible, push the snow instead of lifting it. This technique reduces back strain and saves energy, making the task faster and easier.
• Bend Your Knees, Not Your Back: If you do need to lift snow, use your legs, not your back, to do the heavy work. Bending your knees keeps your spine aligned and reduces the risk of back injuries.
• Take Smaller Scoops: Snow can be heavy, especially when wet. Instead of trying to clear large areas all at once, scoop small amounts to reduce the strain on your muscles and joints.
• Switch Sides Regularly: Alternate between your dominant and non-dominant hand every few minutes. This balances the workload across both sides of your body and prevents muscle fatigue.

2. Choosing Ergonomic Snow Shovels

Investing in an ergonomic snow shovel can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency. These shovels are designed to reduce strain on your back and shoulders, making snow removal much safer and more manageable.

• Curved or Adjustable Handles: Ergonomic shovels often feature curved or adjustable handles that allow you to maintain a more upright posture, reducing the risk of back injuries.
• Lightweight Materials: Opt for a shovel made from lightweight materials, such as plastic or aluminum. Heavier shovels can add unnecessary weight, making the job harder on your body.
• Comfortable Grip: Look for a snow shovel with a comfortable, non-slip grip. A good grip reduces hand strain and helps you keep control even with gloves on.

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3. Maintenance Tips for Your Snow Shovel

Keeping your shovel in top shape is just as important as your snow shoveling techniques. A well-maintained shovel can help you work faster and safer:

• Inspect for Cracks and Damage: Before the snow season starts, inspect your shovel for any cracks in the blade or handle. If it’s damaged, replace it, as weakened parts can break under pressure.
• Sharpen the Blade: A sharp blade can slice through snow more easily. You can sharpen a metal shovel blade with a file or grinder, but plastic blades can be trickier; inspect and replace them if they’re overly worn.
• Lubricate the Blade: Spray the blade with a silicon or Teflon-based lubricant before you start shoveling. This prevents snow from sticking to the surface, making it easier to push and lift.
• Store Properly: Store your shovel in a dry place, away from the elements, to prevent rust and other damage.

4. Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

Snow shoveling can be strenuous, so staying mindful of your physical limits is key:

• Dress in Layers: Wear breathable, layered clothing to stay warm without overheating. You’ll also need a good pair of gloves to keep your hands warm and avoid slipping.
• Take Breaks: Shoveling can be hard work! Take frequent breaks to catch your breath and prevent exhaustion, especially if you’re working with heavy snow.
• Stay Hydrated: Even in cold weather, you can get dehydrated while shoveling. Keep a water bottle nearby to stay hydrated as you work.

With the right snow shoveling techniques, ergonomic snow shovels, and some maintenance know-how, snow removal can be a safer, more manageable part of your winter routine.

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Alternative Tip:

Use An Ice Melter To Treat The Surface.

Preventative maintenance with an ice melter prepares the driveway surface for snowfall. Safe Paw is an ice melter that is non-toxic, pet-friendly, and environmentally friendly. It can go a long way toward preventing ice accumulation. It’s designed to melt ice and make it easier to get through the winter months without having to shovel your driveway. If you are thinking about where to buy safe paw? It’s easy to find online, and you can also pick it up in person from the store.

Wrapping Up!

A plastic blade can make quick work of lighter snow without tiring you out, but having a sturdy metal snow shovel on hand can give you the extra leverage you need to move thick, wet snow and scrape through tough ice. Having one of each can help you tackle snow shoveling more efficiently.

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