When winter hits hard, plowing efficiency is everything. But if your route includes uneven driveways, hidden obstacles, or tricky landscaping, a single missed hazard can mean damaged property and costly repairs. The solution? Smart, strategic marking before the first snowflake falls. Here’s how to make sure you’re properly marking difficult terrain for plowing so you and your plow crews can work faster, safer, and with confidence.
1. Identify the “Problem Zones” Before Snow Falls
Walk the property before winter and note areas that could be dangerous when buried under snow:
- Uneven pavement or dips in the driveway
- Retaining walls, curbs, and decorative stonework
- Garden beds, low fencing, or irrigation components
- Large rocks or hidden landscaping features
Pro tip: Take photos during the walkthrough so your team can reference them later.
2. Use High-Visibility Snow Stakes
Snow stakes are your best line of defense against hidden hazards. Choose solid fiberglass stakes that can withstand harsh weather and remain upright all season.
Placement guidelines for tough spots:
- Uneven driveways: Place stakes every 6–8 feet to clearly outline the plowing path.
- Retaining walls or edges: Position stakes 1–2 feet away from the hazard so plows don’t get too close.
- Hidden landscaping: Use stakes in contrasting colors to make them stand out from surrounding snow.
3. Consider Double-Marking for Maximum Safety
For areas with poor visibility — like driveways that curve or drop off — use two parallel rows of stakes. This creates a visual “lane” for plows to follow, reducing the risk of drifting into unsafe zones.
4. Use Reflective Tape for Night and Low-Light Work
Many plowing jobs happen before sunrise or after dark. Stakes with high-quality reflective tape ensure crews can see boundaries in headlights, even during heavy snow.
5. Train Your Crews on the Marking System
Even the best markings are useless if crews don’t know what they mean. Establish a color-coding or spacing system and make sure everyone understands it before the first storm.
Conclusion:
Marking difficult terrain for plowing isn’t just about avoiding damage — it’s about working faster, more efficiently, and keeping customers happy. By prepping early with durable, visible snow stakes, you’ll save time, reduce accidents, and protect both property and profits.
Visit: DiscountSnowStakes.com
Call us: (866) 938-0922
Email: office@discountsnowstakes.com
