Poor planning, unexpected snowfall, and various misunderstandings often surround winter maintenance. However, winter services are essential to every business plan and can be invaluable even when major snowstorms aren’t on the horizon. Let’s tackle some common winter service myths to help you better prepare for the upcoming season: 

Snow removal can wait until after the storm

Sure, waiting for the storm to pass before tackling snow sounds tempting, but it’s a slippery slope! Letting snow accumulate can lead to dangerous buildups and compacted ice. Instead, continuous snow removal during the storm keeps your property safe and simplifies cleanup. 

I can shovel myself or have my employees do it–professional services aren’t necessary.

Let’s be real: snow removal can be inefficient, risky, and a serious time drain. Professionals are armed with specialized equipment and experienced crews can ensure thorough and timely clearing—without turning your property into an obstacle course. Plus, relying on your own methods could lead to injuries or lost work time, creating more headaches than it’s worth. Why not leave the shoveling and plowing to the pros and focus on keeping your business running smoothly?

Anti-icing is only necessary before big snowstorms

Many people think anti-icing is only effective before major snow events, but that’s not the case! Anti-icing is useful even before freezing temperatures and light snow forecasts. By taking proactive measures, you can prevent hazardous conditions before they form, no matter the size of the storm. It’s a smart way to stay safe and keep your property clear throughout the winter season. 

Once snow is cleared, the job is done.

Clearing snow is just the beginning. Ongoing monitoring is crucial to tackle refreezing, melting runoff, and those unpredictable temperature changes that can turn a clear path into a hazard zone. Plus, don’t forget about post-storm cleanup to fix any landscape damage. Staying vigilant after the storm is just as important as the removal itself.

Snow removal is the same for every property.

Every property has its own unique personality, with specific needs based on layout, storage availability, traffic flow, and usage. That’s why custom snow removal plans are essential—they ensure that high-priority areas like walkways, parking lots, ADA spots, and loading docks get the attention they deserve. 

Anti-icing and snow removal are too expensive and not worth the costs. 

Investing in these services pays off in the long run—after all, the risks and costs of slip-and-fall liability can really add up. Snow professionals can provide you with valuable documentation to avoid negligence claims. Additionally, A solid snow strategy and a professional team not only minimize the need for extensive de-icing but also help prevent costly property damage. Plus, with MSNW’s flat-rate anti-icing, budgeting for winter services becomes a breeze, eliminating any unwelcome surprises. So, why risk it?

I’ll just close my business for a couple of days if it snows too much.

Shutting down can lead to lost revenue and operational disruptions that can linger long after the snow melts. Proactive snow removal keeps your doors open and ensures you’re accessible to customers, even when the weather takes a turn. For essential service providers, having a solid snow plan is key to maintaining smooth operations and year-round accessibility. 

I don’t need to consider winter services until the season starts.

Winter services should be planned well in advance, ideally starting as early as July. Late planning can result in delayed or unavailable services during peak demand, causing unnecessary stress for you and your business.

It won’t snow this year. I don’t need to think about winter services. 

Winter weather in the Pacific Northwest is notoriously unpredictable. Even during mild winters in Washington, sudden ice storms can strike unexpectedly. It’s always better to be prepared than caught off guard, potentially scrambling to manage the situation—or worse, having to shut down business. 

In conclusion, grasping the realities of winter maintenance is essential for keeping your business safe and operational throughout the colder months. Planning ahead not only ensures your property remains accessible but is also a smart business strategy. As winter approaches, what proactive steps will you take to safeguard your operations?