Residential snow removal is all about having a plan in place. If the snow plow contractor scouts his properties, stakes them and is well prepared, then the snow plowing season will be a breeze. Here are 5 things every plow driver should consider when dealing with residential driveways.

1. Know your plow equipment! Read the manual, do a few test runs, go over any questions you have with the dealer. This is critical in operating your gear optimally and getting the job done right.
2. Get to know your properties by scouting them. You should have pictures of the driveways and areas that you are contracted to service. Also, taking notes on the property will go a long way when you are in the middle of a blizzard at midnight trying to clear out a property.
3. Stake the area. Doing the little things, like using driveway markers, will show you or your drivers where the road ends and the landscape begins. Keep it simple.
4. Where will the snow piles go? Good question, this goes back to #2, get to know your properties and have a plan for where you are going to stack the snow. What if we get 2-3 heavier storms than anticipated? Snow storage becomes critical.
5. Where will the snow melt to? So, you have a plan for where you want the snow piles to go, but where will they drain out once the warmer months come around? Make sure there is sufficient drainage wherever you are planning on piling up all that powder!

Overall, residential snow removal isn’t rocket science, but without a good solid professional plan in place, you’ll be considering a career change after one bad season. Get prepared by giving your properties the proper inspection and staking around all of the areas that need to be plowed. Stick with our 5 tips and your snow plow season will be worry free.