Every winter, homeowners try to outsmart the snow with shortcuts or old tricks they’ve heard over the years. The problem? Many of these so-called “snow hacks” are myths—and they can actually make the job harder, damage your property, or even risk your safety.
Let’s bust the most common snow removal myths and set the record straight.
Myth 1: Hot Water Is the Fastest Way to Melt Ice
It seems logical—pour hot water on ice, and it melts. The problem is that in freezing temperatures, the water just refreezes into a slicker, more dangerous layer of black ice. This makes your driveway and walkways even more hazardous.
The Better Way: Use salt, calcium chloride, or sand for traction. If you want to speed up melting, apply de-icer before a storm so snow and ice don’t bond to the surface.
Myth 2: All Shovels Work the Same
A shovel is a shovel, right? Not quite. Using a flat metal shovel for deep snow or heavy wet snow will slow you down and put strain on your back.
The Better Way: Invest in an ergonomic, lightweight shovel with a curved handle. For larger driveways, consider a push-style shovel that moves more snow with less lifting.
Myth 3: Snow Removal Can Wait Until Morning
It’s tempting to stay warm and wait until the storm passes, but leaving snow overnight almost always makes things worse. Snow compacts, turns to ice, and bonds to surfaces, doubling the work in the morning.
The Better Way: Clear in stages. Even 10–15 minutes of shoveling during a storm can cut your work time in half compared to waiting.
Myth 4: Salt Alone Is Enough to Prevent Ice
Salt is helpful, but it doesn’t work below certain temperatures (traditional rock salt loses effectiveness around -7°C). Many homeowners over-salt, wasting money and still ending up with slippery spots.
The Better Way: Use salt blends with calcium chloride for colder temps. Pair with sand or gravel to add traction. Remember: less is more—apply a thin, even layer instead of dumping piles.
Myth 5: Professional Snow Removal Is Too Expensive
Many homeowners assume hiring a snow removal company is a luxury. But when you factor in the hours spent shoveling, the risk of injury, and the cost of equipment, professional service often makes more sense—especially in areas with heavy snowfall.
The Better Way: Compare seasonal contracts. Most residential plans in Ontario range from $700 to $1,200 per season—a predictable cost for peace of mind all winter.
Final Word
Don’t fall for common snow removal myths. Pouring hot water, waiting too long to shovel, or over-salting may seem like quick fixes, but they usually make things worse.
The smartest approach is to clear snow early, use the right tools, and rely on proven methods—not shortcuts. And if you want guaranteed results without the work, a professional snow removal service will save you both time and hassle.