Snow Removal Season is Coming – Get Ready Now

Preparing Your Property for Snow Removal Season

Heavy snowfall and icy conditions are a normal part of winter in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Proper preparation helps ensure safety, preserves property surfaces, and allows for efficient snow removal once winter begins.

Unlike general seasonal cleanup — such as preparing your yard for winter growth — planning for snow removal focuses on equipment readiness and thoughtful property setup before snow arrives.

Why Ready-Made Snow Removal Matters

Getting ready before the snow flies offers several benefits:

• Reduces risk of slips and falls
• Prevents damage to driveways, lawns, and landscaping
• Helps equipment work better when you need it
• Cuts down on time spent during snow events
• Makes heavy snow easier to clear

Winter weather in central Minnesota can be intense, so preparation is a key part of year-round property care.

Inspecting and Preparing Snow Removal Tools

Snow Blower Maintenance

Snow blowers are reliable tools when cared for properly. Before the first significant snowfall:

• Check belts, controls, and cables for loose or worn parts
• Test the starter and ensure fuel is fresh
• Verify augers, paddles, and shear pins are in good condition
• Change oil and check tire pressure

Running your snow blower ahead of winter helps avoid breakdowns when snow arrives.

Organizing Shovels and Hand Tools

Even with a snow blower or plow, shovels are essential on steps, porches, and narrow pathways. Prepare by:

• Inspecting handles and blades for damage
• Having different shovel styles available (push shovel, scoop shovel)
• Storing tools where they’re easy to grab before snow begins

Having tools ready reduces the physical strain of snow removal.

Preparing Your Property Layout

Marking Driveways and Walkways

When snow covers the ground, it can be hard to see edges. Mark the boundaries of:

• Driveways
• Sidewalks
• Garden edges
• Curbs and paved surfaces

Flexible reflective stakes help snow crews or homeowners avoid accidentally plowing into lawns or landscaped areas.

Clearing Outdoor Obstacles

Before snowfall:

• Remove hoses, planters, and outdoor furniture
• Secure garden décor or outdoor lighting
• Store loose items that could be buried by snow

Clearing these items makes snow removal safer and prevents hidden damage under the snow.

Planning Snow Storage Zones

Snow has to go somewhere. Choose storage locations that:

• Don’t block doors or walkways
• Avoid piling against buildings or drainage areas
• Leave sightlines clear for vehicle access

Thoughtful planning helps with deeper snow events.

Walkways and Surface Prep

Walkways and steps are high-priority snow removal areas. Before winter:

• Repair uneven concrete or pavers that might ice over
• Fix drainage issues that contribute to refreezing
• Identify areas prone to drifting

Smooth, safe walkways improve winter access and reduce liability.

Stocking Ice Control Materials

Snow removal is incomplete without ice management. Before winter begins:

• Stock ice melt products designed for low temperatures
• Keep sand or traction materials nearby
• Store all materials in moisture-protected containers

Quick access to traction materials helps maintain safer surfaces during icy spells.

Common Snow Removal Prep Mistakes

Common oversights include:

• Waiting too long to test snow removal equipment
• Leaving yard obstacles unchecked
• Failing to mark boundaries
• Underestimating ice buildup challenges

Addressing these now supports clearer, safer property conditions all winter.

Contact Us

For questions about seasonal property maintenance or preparing your property for snow removal in the Brainerd Lakes Area, please reach out to RJ3 Property Maintenance:

RJ3 Property Maintenance
11189 Sleepy Hollow Drive
Brainerd, MN 56401
Phone: 218-576-4992
Email: info@rj3pm.com

We proudly serve Brainerd, Baxter, Pillager, Nisswa, Lake Shore, Merrifield, Ironton, Crosslake, Garrison, Crosby, Pequot Lakes, Deerwood, and Little Falls.