It’s about that time of year to start buying your snow stakes for winter. When looking at the variety of options, you might be wondering why there are so many different driveway markers to choose from. One of the questions we get asked is “Should my driveway markers have a cap?” The short answer is, it doesn’t. However, there are some benefits for using one.

Here are some things to consider when deciding if your driveway markers should have cap:

1. Durability. Having a cap on the snow stake helps to protect the top of the cap while installing it. Without a cap, the installation process can cause damage to the stake. Caps can also protect the top of the marker from damage or wear, such as from snowplows, vehicles, or exposure to the elements.
2. Cost Efficiency. Because the caps help to protect the driveway markers, liked we just talked about, this means the stakes will be more resilient, and you’ll be able to use them again next year. By not having to re-order all of your snow stakes again year after year, you’ll save money in the long-term.
3. Depth Indication. Caps on the stakes also help determine how much snow has fallen since they were installed. Since the driveway markers are put in before the snow falls, the cap can be used as a way to determine how high the snow has piled up. This can helpful for both snow removal estimates, as well as for determining weather patterns.

In many cases, the use of caps is optional, and whether you need them or not depends on your specific needs and preferences. Also, caps can help your driveway markers look a little nicer. They provide a more finished and uniform appearance.

In the end, the decision to use caps on driveway markers should be based on your individual circumstances.