Types of Snow Removal Tools at Do it Best
Do it Best offers a variety of snow shovels, pushers, roof rakes, ice melt, and other snow and ice removal. The best option for your project depends on the size of the area, whether you’re removing snow or ice, and the surfaces you need to clear. Use this comparison to as a starting point:
Subcategory | Best For | Key Features | Common Uses |
Clearing walkways, driveways, porches, and steps | Scoop or pusher designs, ergonomic handles, durable blades, multiple widths | Lifting heavy buildup snow, pushing light snow, clearing narrow paths | |
Treating slippery outdoor surfaces | Rock salt, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, blended, and specialty formulas | Melting ice and helping prevent refreezing on surfaces | |
Handling detailed winter cleanup | Ice scrapers and related accessories | Breaking up ice | |
Removing reachable snow from roofs on the ground | Long or telescoping handles, wide rake heads | Clearing snow buildup along roof edges, overhangs, garages, and sheds |
Choosing the Right Snow Removal Tools
Start by thinking about where snow and ice create the biggest problems around your home. Many homeowners like to have more than one type of snow removal tool on hand because a driveway, set of steps, icy walkway, and snow-covered roof each need different tools. The snow or ice removal tool you should choose based on your project is outlined below:
- Choose snow shovels and pushers for clearing collected snow.Wide pushers work well for moving light or powdery snow across larger driveways and walkways, and scoop-style shovels are better for lifting heavier snow from steps, corners, and smaller spaces. Consider shovel width and material along with handle length, weight, and ergonomic features that can make shoveling more comfortable.
- Choose snow and ice melt when slippery surfaces are the problem. Rock salt is an economical option for moderate winter temperatures, and calcium chloride or magnesium chloride perform better in extreme temperatures. Specialty and blended formulas may prioritize concrete, pet, or landscaping. Always compare the product's effective temperature range and surface-use instructions before applying.
- Choose snow tools for ice removal and detailed cleanup. Ice scrapers help break up packed or refrozen ice that a shovel cannot easily remove. Steel scrapers help these tools chip up ice with ease to clear walkways, driveways, and other areas where ice has accumulated.
- Choose snow and roof rakes for roof snow collection. Long or telescoping snow roof rakes let homeowners remove reachable snow from roof edges, garages, sheds, and overhangs from the ground. These are most useful in areas that get consistent or heavy snowfall where buildup on the roof can be a concern.
Build a Complete Snow and Ice Removal Setup
A complete winter setup may include more than one type of snow removal tool. Consider the areas that need to be cleared after every storm, including entryways, walkways, mailboxes, driveways, and pet areas.
You may want to include a combination of the following for a complete snow removal setup:
- A snow pusher for moving light snow across open surfaces.
- A scoop shovel for steps, corners, and heavier snow buildup.
- An ice scraper for loosening compacted ice.
- A roof rake for reachable buildup on roof edges.
- Ice melt matched to your climate and surfaces.
- A salt spreader or scoop for applying ice melt on surfaces.
For more information on using your snow removal equipment, see our guide on snow removal safety.
Shop Snow Removal Tools at Do it Best
Get ready for winter with snow shovels, pushers, ice melt, roof rakes, scrapers, and other essential snow and ice removal equipment. Compare products online to find options that fit your property, snowfall, and budget.
Shop snow removal tools at Do it Best today. Order online for home delivery or get same-day pickup at a Do it Best store near you.
Snow Removal Tools FAQs
Clean off dirt and ice melt residue, let each tool dry completely, and store it in a sheltered location. Hang shovels and roof rakes when possible to protect their blades and handles.
Replace a shovel when its blade is deeply cracked, its handle is loose or damaged, or its wear strip has deteriorated enough to affect performance. Checking equipment before winter can help prevent worn tools in the middle of winter.
For lengthy storms or heavy buildup, clearing snow in stages can reduce the amount moved at one time. Wait until conditions are safe, and avoid working outdoors during severe wind or dangerous temperatures.
Many homes benefit from at least one primary shovel and a backup. Homes with both wide driveways and narrow steps may be easier to maintain with a pusher for open areas and a scoop shovel for smaller areas.