Preparing Your Driveway for Snow Season in Cabot
Key Takeaways: Preparing Your Driveway for Snow Season
Inspect & Repair: Fix cracks, holes, and drainage issues before winter.
Clear Debris: Leaves and branches can hinder snow removal and damage equipment.
Pre-Treat Surfaces: Sand and ice-melt reduce ice buildup.
Designate Snow Storage: Prevents driveway or sidewalk blockage.
DIY vs. Professional: Small driveways may be manageable manually, but professional crews handle heavy snow, large properties, and emergencies.
Safety & Efficiency: Preparation reduces risk of accidents, improves accessibility, and protects property.
Winter in Cabot, Arkansas brings snow, ice, and hazardous weather, which can make driveways dangerous and inaccessible. Proper preparation for the snow season ensures your driveway remains safe, functional, and easy to clear, whether you choose DIY snow removal or professional services.
At Cabot Landscaping, we provide residential and commercial snow removal services to keep driveways, sidewalks, and parking areas safe and accessible. In this guide, we’ll explore preparation tips, safety strategies, and best practices for managing snow on your driveway, while also comparing DIY techniques with professional snow plowing services.
Why Driveway Preparation Matters
Proper preparation for snow season helps:
Prevent Accidents: Ice and snow buildup increases slip-and-fall risks.
Maintain Accessibility: Keep your property accessible for residents, guests, and emergency vehicles.
Protect Property: Prevent cracks, potholes, and damage to your driveway surface.
Reduce Stress: Avoid last-minute snow clearing during heavy storms.
Steps to Prepare Your Driveway
1. Inspect and Repair Driveway Surfaces
Before winter, check for:
Cracks, holes, or uneven areas
Loose asphalt or concrete sections
Water drainage issues
Repairing minor damage prevents ice formation and worsening damage during winter storms.
2. Clear Debris
Remove leaves, branches, and rocks that may interfere with snow removal or damage equipment. Debris-free driveways allow for smooth plowing and reduce the risk of damage to landscaping and hardscapes.
3. Apply Pre-Treatment
Pre-treat your driveway with:
Sand or grit: Improves traction on ice
Ice-melt products: Prevents ice formation during early snowfalls
Pre-treatment reduces ice buildup and slip hazards, making snow clearing faster and safer.
4. Designate Snow Storage Areas
Plan where snow will be piled or relocated during plowing. Proper snow storage prevents blockage of driveways, sidewalks, and curb access.
5. Ensure Accessibility
Mark areas for plowing, especially:
Driveway edges
Sidewalks and ramps
Parking areas
Utility access points
This ensures contractors or DIY efforts do not miss critical areas.
6. Consider Driveway Coatings
Applying a protective sealant before winter can prevent water from seeping into cracks, which could freeze and expand, causing damage.
DIY Driveway Snow Removal Tips
Shoveling Techniques
Use ergonomic shovels
Lift with your legs, not your back
Clear snow in layers rather than all at once
Snow Blowers
Ideal for long driveways or heavy snowfalls
Ensure proper maintenance before winter
De-Icing Materials
Apply salt or eco-friendly ice melt products
Avoid excessive amounts that can damage landscaping
Routine Maintenance
Remove snow after each snowfall to prevent compacted ice
Check low spots for water accumulation
Professional Snow Removal Benefits
Hiring Cabot snow removal professionals offers:
Rapid clearing for heavy snowfall or emergencies
Specialized equipment for driveways, parking lots, and roofs
De-icing services to reduce slip hazards
Property protection by preventing damage from improper DIY methods
Seasonal contracts for consistent winter coverage
Professional crews ensure safety, efficiency, and peace of mind, especially for long driveways, commercial properties, or high-traffic areas.
Emergency Snow Considerations
Even with preparation, storms can overwhelm homeowners:
Heavy Snowfall: May block driveway access completely
Ice Storms: Can freeze pre-treated surfaces, creating hazards
Roof Snow Accumulation: Requires professional removal to prevent leaks or collapse
Having a reliable snow removal contractor on call ensures emergencies are addressed quickly, keeping driveways clear and accessible.
Cost Considerations
DIY preparation includes:
Shovels: $20–$60
Snow blowers: $250–$600
Ice-melt or sand: $10–$50
Professional snow removal depends on:
Property size
Snowfall intensity
Frequency of services
Emergency response requirements
Investing in professional services often prevents costly repairs and injuries, making it a practical choice for many Cabot property owners.