Get matched with top snow removal pros in Tulare, CA

The best way to save money on snow removal is to sign up for a seasonal contract that guarantees service throughout the entire winter. Most companies charge between $200 and $600 for this service, and they’ll often give you a break on the price if you extend annually. Of course, savings will depend on your area. If you live in a moderate climate where snowfall may or may not occur, you could pay more than you need during a light snow year. Still, it’s usually a safe bet to sign a seasonal contract.

Snowblowers come in three different sizes: first-, second-, and third-stage blowers. Each additional stage is larger with higher intakes, more powerful, and has more gear options.

A first-stage blower, also called a snow thrower, is usually best for snow 6 to 8 inches or below. Electric snow blowers are usually only available in this size. If you regularly get snow that’s well above six inches, consider a second-stage snow blower. If snowstorms dump 2 to 3 feet of snow repeatedly during winter, you need a third-stage snow blower to tackle it.

Whether salt melts ice overnight will depend on how low the temperature drops. If temperatures stay around 30 degrees Fahrenheit, you can count on salt melting ice overnight. Otherwise, the lower temperatures get, the less effective the salt is in melting ice, and the more likely you’ll wake up with a slippery driveway the next day. 

You should check with your insurance provider, but generally, ice dam removal is not covered by insurance, as it’s considered a preventable issue. However, damage from ice dams may be covered by your policy, including roof collapses. In the case of leaks, your belongings may or may not be covered. If you can’t find specific information on ice dam removal in your policy, give the insurance company a call and find out.