Snowshovel my own driveway? Do I really want to do this? The thought of going out in the cold wet snow doesn't excite most of us. On the other hand, some look at it as yet another task that is necessary as a homeowner living in a snow belt area.
There are many reasons that you would choose to shovel rather than use a snow blower. Several of the reasons are outlined below.
They are good for small areas. Perfect for smaller single car driveways/walkways and tighter areas.
They are easier to maneuver.
They are inexpensive when you need to repair or replace them.
It is manual labor and if you practice organic lawn care, you can keep with the theme. No pollution or emissions.
Requires a smaller storage space than a snow blower.
It is lightweight and portable.
Choosing the right snowshovel design for you is important. You should base your decision on the blade, handles and material the snow shovel is made from. Just because a snow shovel is right for me, doesn't mean it is right for everyone. Below I have outlined the differences for you.
The two basic types of blades to choose from are flat blades and rounded blades.
The handles should be the focus of your decision.
The material the snowshovel blade and handle is made from is very important.
An electric snow shovel is also known as a power shovel, electric snow thrower and an electric shovel.
It is the shape of a shovel and has a long handle. It runs on electricity. The chord attached to the shovel is typically short so you will most likely need a long outdoor extension chord. Since the chord will be in water be sure it is meant to be used outside.
It works best on fresh new snow. It pulls the snow off of the ground and throws the snow in front creating a clear path.
It is faster than a manual snowshovel and easier on the back.
Best to use an electric snow shovel on a flat surface such as a paved driveway or walkway.
An ergonomic snow shovel helps to reduce the weight you are carrying because it is a lightweight shovel. The bent shaft helps to keep your back straight while you are shoveling. It is easier to get a good grip without having to reach all the way down the shaft of the shovel.
Be sure to try out the shovel in the store before you purchase it. You want to make sure you are comfortable with it and that it is the right length for you.
Go from the snowshoveling page to the snow blowing page.
Consider having the kids help out. Kids like to mimic what their parents are doing and when they are younger they like to help with chores. A kids snow shovel is pretty inexpensive. Besides, being out in the fresh air along with the exercise will wear them down and they may even take a nap.
Snowshoveling can be a daunting task. Why not make it as easy as possible on yourself.
If you don't have any health conditions, shoveling snow is good exercise. A 155 lb person can burn a little over 400 calories per hour.
Snow sticking to the shovels blade? Before you begin shoveling put a little wax on the blade of the shovel. You can use anything you have handy: car wax, floor wax, candle wax. Have a can of PAM, that will work too.
Just got another 4 or so inches of snow today. A friend of mine is testing out her new toy, a brand new electric snow shovel/power snow shovel. She said "it's just like vacuuming".