Edmonton winters can be relentless, with heavy snowfalls piling up quickly and creating challenges for homeowners. Your driveway, being one of the most heavily used and exposed areas of your property, needs special attention before the snow hits. Preparing ahead of time can help prevent damage, improve safety, and make snow removal much easier.
In this guide, we’ll share practical steps to prepare your driveway for heavy snowfall and ensure it survives the season in great shape.
Small cracks may not seem like a big issue, but they become much worse during freeze-thaw cycles. Water seeps in, freezes, and expands, leading to larger cracks or crumbling surfaces. Before the first snowfall, patch cracks and apply a quality sealant. This protects the surface from moisture and helps extend the life of your driveway.
👉 Related reading: How Do I Prevent Ice Damage to My Driveway This Winter?
Heavy snow can obscure the boundaries of your driveway, making it easy for shovels, blowers, or plows to damage landscaping or curbs. Install reflective driveway markers before the ground freezes. This is especially useful if you’ve booked a snow removal service, as it guides crews and prevents accidental damage.
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Standing water can quickly turn into ice patches, making your driveway unsafe. Check that your driveway slopes properly for drainage and clear leaves or debris from gutters and downspouts. Direct water away from the surface to prevent icy buildup when temperatures drop.
Not all de-icing products are safe for driveways. Rock salt can be damaging to concrete and asphalt, leading to surface flaking. Opt for calcium chloride or magnesium-based ice melts instead—they work in colder temperatures and are gentler on surfaces.
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Heavy snow often requires more than a shovel. By booking a professional snow removal service before the season begins, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and ensure your driveway is consistently cleared.
With Neighbourhood Heroes, our Essential Removal’s Package keeps your driveway and main entrances clear with unlimited visits after every 2 cm snowfall, while the Pristine Removal’s Package covers all functional areas, including walkways, decks, and patios. We even offer Priority Removal and Sand/Ice Melt applications as add-ons for extra protection.
👉 Related reading: When Should I Start Preparing for Snow Removal in Edmonton?
Preparing your driveway for heavy snowfall is about being proactive—repairing cracks, marking boundaries, improving drainage, using the right ice melt, and securing professional snow removal support. These steps not only protect your driveway but also keep your property safe, accessible, and compliant with Edmonton’s snow-clearing bylaws.
Neighbourhood Heroes is here to handle the hard work for you. Contact us today.