Get matched with top snow removal pros in Welch, WV

Both rock salt and ice melt are naturally occurring salts. Rock salt is sodium chloride, which is the same as table salt. Ice melt products can be made from a combination of salts like magnesium chloride and calcium chloride or can be those salts alone.

Rock salt comes in large crystals, so it helps provide traction on icy surfaces, whereas ice melt products need to be mixed with sand to provide traction. Ice melt products work at lower temperatures than rock salt, so they might be a better choice if you have a harsh winter climate.

In most municipalities, snow removal is compulsory in public spaces, including the sidewalk in front of your house, so you need to remove snow there. You could face fines for failure to clear your sidewalk in a timely manner—usually within 24 hours of the snowfall stopping. More importantly, your sidewalk needs to be safe for pedestrians to use, and you could face legal issues if someone slips on your sidewalk because you failed to clear it. Sidewalk removal services might seem expensive, but they’re well worth it to avoid these issues.

In most cases, it’s a good idea to leave the icicles on your roof and wait for the warmer weather to melt them away naturally. You should only remove icicles if you believe they’re heavy enough to cause damage to your home or anyone who enters it.

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.