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Yes, but it works best with lightweight snowblowers, the single-stage models or electric versions. Also, you need to have a rubberized intake edge on the ground and preferably rubberized auger paddles, not a metal version. Otherwise you may chip or damage the surface as you work. When it doubt, let the snow lie.

You can also use a snow blower on leveled gravel, but only if you carefully adjust the intake height so it doesn’t kick up the gravel and turn it into flying missiles.

Snow can be too heavy for a snow blower and cause clogs in the chute. However, having the correct type of blower for the snow conditions can reduce the chances of it being too heavy for it to handle. Another trick for preventing clogs is to make multiple passes while it snows rather than waiting for it to finish snowing.

Magnesium chloride is a relatively gentle ice melt product and, if used correctly, should not cause much damage to your property. The most important thing is to be sure you apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and don’t use too much.

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.