Calgary’s winter season is both beautiful and relentless, turning everything into a winter wonderland one day and an icy challenge the next. For property owners, keeping up with snow and ice can be a full-time job. As a professional at Pro Property Services, I can tell you that winter maintenance is about much more than just snow removal; it’s about making your property safe, accessible, and ready to handle whatever winter throws our way. Here’s a guide on how to stay ahead of the game this season with some tips we’ve learned from over 15 years of keeping Calgary properties winter-ready.
1. Start with a Solid Snow Removal Plan
The first step in winter maintenance is having a solid plan for snow removal. We’re not just talking about pulling out the shovel every time it snows; we mean a real, consistent approach to managing snow on your property. Heavy snow buildup can create slip hazards, block entryways, and even damage structures over time. To keep things safe and accessible, decide whether you’re going to handle snow removal yourself or work with a professional service.
If you’re considering a DIY approach, make sure you’re prepared with the right tools and protective gear to avoid injury. However, for larger properties or businesses, professional snow removal is often the best route to ensure that all areas are properly cleared. Our team at Pro Property Services monitors weather patterns and anticipates snowfall, so we’re ready to tackle the snow as soon as it hits. Having a team like ours means you can enjoy a worry-free winter without lifting a shovel.
2. Keep Pathways and Entrances Clear and Safe
Pathways and entrances are high-traffic areas, which means they’re also high-risk zones for slips and falls. Shoveling these areas frequently is key, but that’s just part of the job. We also recommend using deicing products, such as rock salt or sand, to keep these areas free from ice and provide extra traction.
One little-known trick is to focus on proactive deicing. At Pro Property Services, we often pre-treat pathways and entrances before a big storm to prevent ice from bonding to surfaces, making it easier to clear later. And remember, some products can be harsh on concrete or harmful to pets, so look for options that are both pet-friendly and designed for your specific surface type.
3. Mind the Roof and Gutters
Roofs and gutters are often overlooked during winter maintenance, but they play a big role in protecting your property. Snow buildup on the roof can lead to ice dams, which cause water to back up and potentially leak into your property. This can be especially problematic for businesses, where a small leak can quickly lead to a big headache.
Clearing the edges of your roof and ensuring that your gutters are clean before winter hits is a great preventative step. If you’re not comfortable with heights (who can blame you?), our team can handle this for you safely and efficiently. Pro Property Services offers snow removal for roofs, helping prevent ice dams and water damage so you don’t have to worry about your building’s structural integrity during the season.
4. Protect Your Landscaping
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can forget about your landscaping. Snowplows and snow shovels can sometimes damage shrubs, flower beds, and other elements around your property if they’re not carefully maneuvered. To keep your landscaping safe, consider marking the boundaries of gardens or delicate areas with stakes. This helps our team or anyone working on your property know where to avoid placing heavy snow or equipment.
Salt and other deicers can also harm grass and plants, so it’s a good idea to use them carefully. At Pro Property Services, we make sure to apply deicing agents only where necessary to protect both your walkways and your landscaping investment.
5. Maintain Your Driveways and Parking Lots
For homeowners, a clear driveway is a must. And for business owners, a safe, accessible parking lot can make all the difference for customers and employees. Frequent snow clearing is essential to prevent snow compaction, which can turn into thick layers of ice if left untreated.
Consider scheduling regular snow removal services for your driveway or parking lot. Our team ensures that your lot is clear and ice-free, making it safe for vehicles and pedestrians alike. We know the last thing anyone wants is to be slipping and sliding in the parking lot on a cold morning, so we stay on top of keeping it clear.
Winter-Ready with Pro Property Services
Calgary winters can be harsh, but they don’t have to be a burden. By following these winter maintenance tips and preparing ahead of time, you can enjoy a safer, more accessible property throughout the season. And if you’d rather spend your winter enjoying the snow from a cozy distance, Pro Property Services is here to handle it all for you.
Our team of professionals takes pride in providing top-notch service to Calgary’s homeowners and businesses, ensuring that your property is well-maintained and winter-ready. With our help, you can stay safe, protect your property, and maybe even look forward to that next snowfall!