What Are Common Snow Removal Mistakes to Avoid? | Neighbourhood Heroes Lawn Care

Snow removal is an essential part of winter life in Edmonton. Whether you handle it yourself or rely on a professional service, the way snow is cleared makes a big difference for safety, property protection, and compliance with city bylaws. Unfortunately, many homeowners make mistakes that can lead to damage, inefficiency, or even fines. By knowing what to avoid, you can keep your property safe and winter-ready.

1. Waiting Too Long to Clear Snow

One of the most common mistakes is waiting until the snow piles up before tackling it. Edmonton bylaws require sidewalks to be cleared within 48 hours of snowfall, but waiting even that long can allow snow to compact into ice. The result? More difficult removal, increased slip hazards, and potential damage to surfaces. See our blog post, How Often Should I Clear Snow From My Sidewalks?

At Neighbourhood Heroes, our snow removal packages include unlimited visits, ensuring your property is cleared within 24 hours for every 2 cm of snowfall—sometimes multiple times in one day if necessary.

2. Using the Wrong Tools or Products

Not all shovels, snow blowers, or ice melts are created equal. Common mistakes include:

• Using metal shovels that scratch concrete or paving stones.
• Relying on rock salt, which can damage driveways, landscaping, and nearby vegetation.
• Ignoring equipment maintenance, leading to breakdowns mid-season.

Instead, use plastic or rubber-edged shovels and surface-safe ice melts like calcium chloride or magnesium-based products.

3. Piling Snow in the Wrong Places

Many homeowners push snow onto lawns, near foundations, or across sidewalks. While it may seem convenient, this practice can cause serious problems:

• Flooding during spring melt.
• Damage to grass and garden beds.
• Blocked visibility at driveways and intersections.

Snow should be directed toward safe, low-impact areas—or managed by a professional who knows where to place it without risk.

4. Forgetting About Safety and Accessibility

It’s not enough to clear only the main walkway or driveway. Commonly forgotten areas include:

• Steps and entryways.
• Sidewalks are required by city bylaws.
• Paths to garbage bins, mailboxes, or secondary entrances.

Clearing these areas consistently helps prevent accidents and keeps your property functional all winter.

5. Ignoring Preventive Measures

Snow removal isn’t just about reacting after a storm—it’s about preparation. Skipping simple preventative steps is another mistake to avoid:

• Failing to mark driveways and walkways with reflective stakes.
• Not sealing cracks in concrete before winter. How Do I Prevent Ice Damage to My Driveway This Winter?
• Overlooking drainage issues that create ice patches.

For more on preparation, read our guide: When Should I Start Preparing for Snow Removal in Edmonton?

Final Thoughts

Snow removal may seem straightforward, but small mistakes can have big consequences—ranging from damaged property to dangerous ice buildup. By staying proactive, using the right tools, and clearing snow consistently, you’ll avoid the most common pitfalls.

For Edmonton homeowners looking for peace of mind, Neighbourhood Heroes’ snow removal packages offer unlimited visits, surface-safe practices, and reliable clearing all season long.