Difference Between Snow Removal and Snow Plowing

When the cold winter season rolls in, it’s important to clean your sidewalks and driveways. Removing snow can be done through professional methods or by plowing. Many people use snow removal and snow plowing interchangeably. However, they are not exactly the same thing. Each has its pros and cons, which is why knowing the difference is important. 

Let’s discuss the difference between snow plowing and snow removal to help you choose the suitable method for you:

What Is Snow Plowing?

This refers to the process of removing ice and snow by pushing it away from the sidewalks, driveways, and roads. A snowplow can be attached to a vehicle like an ATV, pickup truck, and SUV. When the plow is attached to the front of the vehicle, this can be used to push the snow out of the way of cars and pedestrians. 

You may purchase a snowplow yourself and clear snow that accumulates on your property. If large amounts of snow need to be removed, hire snow plowing services to handle everything for you.

Pros of Snow Plowing

  • Moves a large volume of snow quickly
  • Prevents slip and fall injuries related to snow and ice
  • Cheaper than other snow removal services
  • Suitable for properties with long driveways and large yards

Cons of Snow Plowing

  • Creates messy snow piles on the side of the road or parking lots
  • Not ideal for properties with narrow areas like a sidewalk or deck
  • Additional services like shoveling may be required to clear snow on pavements
  • Large, powerful machinery used in snow plowing might damage your property

What Is Snow Removal?

Professional snow removal is like snow plowing but with additional steps. A snow removal contractor will not just clear the snow. They will remove all the snow and haul them off-site. As a proactive measure, they will apply ice repellents and deicers to prevent ice from accumulating. Doing this will make travel easier and safer after a snowfall.

Compared to snow polling, professional snow removal requires large loaders and heavy machinery to take the snow off the property. The process can be challenging and dangerous as it requires the skills and experience of professionals. Here are the pros and cons of removing snow from your property:

Pros of Snow Removal

  • Much safer and more effective than snow plowing
  • Icy patches will be removed 
  • No big snow piles will obstruct the vision of drivers or motorists
  • Ideal for tight spaces since all snow piles are removed completely

Cons of Snow Removal

  • More expensive than basic snow plowing
  • Might damage landscaping when done incorrectly
  • Some deicing products are harmful to plants

How To Decide Between Snow Removal and Snow Plowing

Budget

Rates depend on several factors, but homeowners pay an average of $50 to $140 per hour for snow removal services. Other companies charge per hour, per visit, and per season. The snow removal prices will depend on the contract you’ve got in place. During extreme snowfall events, expect to pay up to $1,010. On the other hand, a single plow job ranges from $30 to $50 per hour. This cost may or may not include sidewalks or pavements.

When it comes to comparing prices, snow plowing is cheaper than professional snow removal. It will cost you more to hire a professional contractor, but you can think of it as an investment. By working with a snow removal company, you can expect top-notch results and rapid work.

Property Size

Another factor is the size of your landscape. Companies charge according to the width and length of your driveway or sidewalk. For narrow areas, snow plowing is not recommended because the vehicle won’t fit in tight spaces. On the other hand, professional snow removal can be done in both small and large spaces.

Conclusion

Both snow plowing and snow removal are effective ways of clearing snow and ice. To keep your property safe and clean even during the winter season, call Midstate Landscaping. We offer snow plow services, driveway shoveling, roof snow removal, and so much more. No matter how heavy the snowfall is, we will get the job done. Our team is committed to top-notch services and rapid response times.

Our trusted local landscapers also provide lawn care, mulching, and hardscaping services to our residential and commercial clients in Carlisle. Schedule an appointment today!