Get matched with top snow removal pros in Martinez, CA

If a big freeze catches you by surprise and you don’t have any deicer to hand, you can reduce the chance of taking a tumble by laying gritty, anti-slip materials. Some natural, readily-available options that don’t melt ice but offer traction underfoot include sand, wood shavings, kitty litter, and fireplace ash.

When temperatures drop far enough, even rock salt can’t melt the ice. The briny solution freezes before it develops, and the salt doesn’t work, which happens around 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep in mind that wind chill and other factors impact ice-melting progress. Some ice melters, like magnesium chloride, work at colder temperatures and work better for deep winter freezes.

The average cost of a snow removal service is around $85, but this depends heavily on the amount of snow, your location, and the seasonal demand. An annual snow removal contract will typically cost between $200 and $600 for the season. Keep in mind that single services are usually based on the amount of snow, with every six inches adding to your total. You can expect to pay between $40 and $200 in most cases or as high as $500 or more for excessive snowfall. In many cases, it’s more affordable to enter into an annual contract.

Removing snow from your roof can help prevent ice dams, but the best thing to do is address insulation issues in your attic. If you do decide to remove the snow manually, you should always use a roof rake rather than a shovel. You shouldn’t climb your snowy roof in any circumstance, and roof rake allows you to remove the snow from the ground or a ladder. For the best results, remove snow as soon as possible after it falls.