Best snow removal pros near Sterling, VA

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.

Some commercial services use sand when clearing ice, but that’s to add instant traction, not to melt the ice. While you can scatter kitty litter, sand, or similar substances on steps, paths, or porches to improve safety during icy conditions, they won’t help melt hardened ice. Rely on salt or other de-icing methods to fully melt away stubborn ice.

In most cases, it is best to leave icicles on your roof and allow them to melt naturally. You should only remove them if they are heavy enough to cause damage to your home or pose a safety risk to people below. Attempting to remove icicles yourself can be dangerous, so if you are concerned about immediate damage, it is recommended to hire a professional. To prevent icicles from recurring, you should address the underlying cause, which is often poor insulation. Long-term solutions include improving your home's insulation or installing roof heating coils.

The cost to purchase a snow blower ranges from $100 to $2,300 on average, depending on the make, model, type, and age of the machine. More advanced two-stage and three-stage models, which are often self-propelled and include features like power steering and heated hand grips, can cost between $950 and $1,500 or more. If you only need a snow blower temporarily, you can rent one for an average of $75 per day from a local hardware store or rental facility.