3 Secrets To Shoveling Snow

As the owner of one of Toronto’s most sought-after landscaping firms, Top Notch Services, Dave Cotterell clears thousands of driveways a year. Here are his three best tips for getting the job done efficiently, effectively and pain-free.

1. Get in Gear

Stretch, dress in warm layers, stay hydrated and use a lightweight but strong shovel. If the shovel feels heavy before there’s even snow on the blade, it’s time to go out and buy a new one.

(Photo courtesy of Thinkstock)

2. Push, Don’t Lift

Standing behind the shovel and using your body weight to push the snow prevents overexertion. When you do have to lift, make small batches. Keep your back straight, tighten your abs, bend your knees and toss the snow ahead of you.

(Photo courtesy of Thinkstock)

3. Beeline It To the End

Always move snow the shortest distance possible. In a standard rectangular driveway, that means working from the middle out to the edges. Start by clearing a line down the centre of the driveway. That will provide a reference point for where to start pushing the snow off to the sides.

(Photo courtesy of Thinkstock)