Living in a cold climate can bring with it lots of seasonal challenges — particularly when it comes to snow removal! Trying to shovel heavy, wet snow seems like an exercise in futility at times. You lift and dump the shovel only for the sticky snow to cling fast, leaving you exasperatedly trying to pry chunks out stuffed between blades as they slowly build up.
But don’t give up hope just yet; there are several proactive steps that you can take to help prevent excessive amounts of snow from sticking your shovel so you can breeze through those winter days with ease. Let’s dive into what we need to know about how to prevent snow from sticking to shovel!
Does Silicone Spray Work on Snow Shovels?
Silicone spray is sometimes touted as a way to prevent snow from sticking to shovels. While silicone spray can indeed repel moisture, the amount of usage required for it to be effective may make this an impractical solution for keeping snow off your shovels.
To test whether or not silicone spray works on snow shovels, you should spray a thin layer onto the blade of the shovel. Let it dry completely before putting it to use. If you start shoveling and find that the snow is still sticking, apply another layer of silicone spray and let it dry. You may need to repeat this process several times throughout the season to keep snow from sticking.
When applying silicone spray, make sure that your work area is well-ventilated. The fumes arising from spraying the silicone can be harmful if not dispersed in an open space.
Ultimately, it is unclear whether or not silicone spray will prevent snow from sticking to shovels because there are many variables at play, including the type of shovel and climate conditions. However, if you are willing to put in the time and effort to apply multiple layers of silicone spray, it may be worth a try.
It is important to note that even if the silicone spray does not work, there are other ways to prevent snow from sticking. Toothpaste and baby powder can act as lubricants on the blade of your shovel and make it easier to remove the snow.
Additionally, shovels with non-stick coatings or rubber blades can help prevent snow from clinging in the first place. If all else fails, you can always scrape the hard layer of ice off by hand before attempting to use your shovel.
10 Methods on How to Prevent Snow from Sticking to Shovel
1. Use a Plastic Shovel
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, it’s a good idea to invest in a plastic shovel. Plastic shovels are less likely to stick to the snow than their metal counterparts, making them ideal for clearing driveways and sidewalks.
If you’re in the market for a new shovel, opt for one that is made of plastic. Although they may cost more, they will save you time and frustration in the long run. Make sure to read the packaging closely to ensure you are getting a shovel made of plastic.
2. Apply Wax to the Shovel Blade
Another way to prevent snow from sticking to your shovel is to apply wax to the blade. This will create a barrier between the snow and the shovel, making it easier to scoop up and remove. You can find wax specifically designed for this purpose at most hardware stores. Make sure to apply the wax evenly to get the best results.
If you have an older shovel with a wooden handle, you may want to consider adding a coat of wax to the handle as well to help protect it from moisture and wear. After each use, remove any excess snow and wipe down the shovel with a dry cloth to keep it in tip-top shape.
3. Use Hot Water
If you find yourself in a bind and don’t have any wax on hand, you can try using hot water instead. Simply pour some hot water over the blade of your shovel and then proceed to scoop up the snow as usual. The heat from the water will help to melt the snow, making it easier to remove.
Make sure the water is not too hot, as it could damage the metal on your shovel. Additionally, this method should only be used for light snow, as it may not be effective for heavier accumulations. You can also use boiling water if you need to quickly remove a large amount of snow.
4. Sprinkle Some Sand on the Snow
If you’re having trouble getting your shovel to glide through the snow, try sprinkling some sand on top of it. The sand will provide traction and make it easier for your shovel to slice through the snow. Be sure to use sand and not salt, as the latter can damage your shovel over time. Additionally, sand is less likely to slip off of the snow and make a mess.
Make sure to cover the entire area you plan on shoveling with a thin layer of sand for maximum efficiency. For best results, try to do this before the snow starts to stick or accumulate. It may also be a good idea to keep some sand on hand in case you find yourself shoveling through thick, icy snow.
5. Use a Broom Instead
In a pinch, you can also use a broom to sweep away light snowfall instead of using a shovel. This is especially effective if there’s only a thin layer of snow on the ground. Brooms can be used to sweep away the snow in small patches or along a path. To make this technique easier, try standing on the edge of the path you are clearing and brush the snow toward the center.
This will ensure that all the snow is swept away in a single direction. Make sure to wear gloves when using a broom to prevent your hands from becoming cold and wet. This technique is not as efficient as shoveling, but it can be used as an alternative in light snowfalls.
You Can Also Check It Out Edge with a Shovel
6. Pre-Treat Your Driveway or Sidewalk
One way to make clearing snow easier is to pre-treat your driveway or sidewalk before a storm hits. There are many commercial products available for this purpose, or you can make your own by mixing salt and water together.
Spraying this mixture on the pavement prior to a snowstorm will help prevent the snow from sticking, allowing you to easily remove it with your shovel. Additionally, if you live in an area that experiences extremely cold temperatures, it is important to pre-treat your driveway or sidewalk with a deicer to prevent the snow from freezing to your shovel.
7. Shovel Regularly Throughout the Storm
If possible, try to shovel regularly throughout the duration of a storm instead of waiting until it’s over. This will help prevent the snow from compacting and turning into ice, which can be much more difficult to remove. It’s also a good idea to clear a path that’s wide enough for two people so that you have room to maneuver if needed.
Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of the amount of snow that you’re shoveling. If it’s too much, take a break and wait a few minutes before continuing. This will help reduce the risk of overexertion and potential injury. Finally, when shoveling, be sure to lift with your legs and not your back. This will help reduce the strain on your body and prevent potential injury.
8 . Use Warm Water When Clearing Ice
If you find yourself dealing with ice instead of fresh snow, try using warm water instead of cold water or hot water. The warmth from the water will help break up the ice so that it’s easier to remove with your shovel. Just be careful not to use boiling water, as this could damage your pavement or concrete surfaces.
9. Apply Silicone Spray to the Shovel Blade
If you’re having trouble getting the snow to come off your shovel, try applying a few layers of silicone spray. The silicone will create a barrier between the shovel and the snow, making it easier to remove. However, this method should be used as a last resort, as silicone can be toxic when inhaled or ingested.
10. Scrape Ice by Hand
Finally, if all else fails, you can always use your hands to scrape away any hard layer of ice that’s left on your driveway or sidewalk before attempting to use your shovel. This may take some time and effort, but it’ll help ensure that the snow doesn’t stick and make clearing much easier. Although it’s not recommended for large areas, this method can be used in small patches here and there.
Conclusion
You can prevent snow from sticking to your shovel by spraying the shovel with cooking spray, wiping it down with a dryer sheet, or rubbing it with Vaseline.
By taking these steps on how to prevent snow from sticking to shovel, you’ll make shoveling snow much easier and less time-consuming. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your shovel clean and prevent snow from sticking to it.
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