Calgary winters are long and the snow comes fast. Whether you clear it yourself or hire a pro, here are the practical tips every homeowner should know.
Clear early and often. Fresh snow is far easier to move than snow that's been walked and driven on — packed snow turns to ice fast. Clearing within a few hours of a storm saves you effort and prevents ice buildup.
Know the bylaw. Calgary requires property owners to clear adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall. Failing to do so can result in a fine — and more importantly, a slip-and-fall liability. If you're clearing yourself, set a reminder; if you've hired a service, the trigger handles it for you.
Use the right de-icer. Rock salt (sodium chloride) works but damages concrete and landscaping at high rates. Calcium chloride and eco ice melt products work at lower temperatures and are gentler on surfaces. At Jayz Landscaping & Snow Removal, we use environmentally responsible de-icers safe for landscaping and pets.
Don't forget the windrow. The plow ridge at the end of your driveway is the most frustrating part of DIY clearing. If you're doing it yourself, clear the windrow last so you're not re-clearing it. If you hire us, windrow management is included.
Watch for ice dams. Refreeze is the real danger. Meltwater runs during the day and freezes overnight into black ice. Treat high-risk zones — slopes, shade, and drainage paths — proactively before they refreeze.
Know when to hire a pro. If you're traveling, have mobility issues, or just value your winter weekends, a monthly snow plan pays for itself in peace of mind. Our plans start at $120/month and trigger automatically after 2 inches of snow — no calling required.