If you live north of Kentucky, ice and snow removal is probably a significant part of your winter routine. You may need to clear a driveway, path and/or sidewalk. This can be difficult to perform manually, especially if you receive wet snow or have a long driveway. You can buy your own removal equipment, but it's usually expensive to purchase and maintain. A simpler alternative is to pay a contractor to clear surfaces and treat them when necessary. You may choose to sign a contract or only request service during larger storms.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove Snow?
The expense of this service is primarily linked to labor and equipment maintenance. You may spend around $50 per hour when the contractor needs to use a snowblower or manually remove snow with a shovel. If all of the work can be performed with a truck-mounted plow, you can plan on spending an average of $40 after each storm. Supplies make up a relatively minor portion of the expense. They include things like sand, salt and other ice-melting substances.
Snow removal can be a tedious job in the winter months. Hiring a snow removal contractor can save you a lot of time and effort. Before you hire anyone, we recommend you compare at least 3 estimates from contractors in your city. This way you get the best value for your money.
When Do Removal Services Charge Extra?
The following factors all play a major role in the final cost to remove snow:
- accumulation
- driveway design
- any sidewalks
- salt or sand
The cost to remove snow may rise if weather conditions or the design of your driveway make it more labor-intensive. Contractors usually want more money if a storm produces over a half foot of snow. You can plan on paying an extra $25 to clear up to one foot. One and a half feet may add around $50 to the regular bill. Your driveway material, length and pitch are important as well. This service becomes more expensive if you have a steep driveway, gravel surface or sidewalks to clear.
Snow Removal Cost Breakdown
The cost to remove snow differ slightly the least being $100 per year. The average expense is $200. This would cover frequent removal, sanding and salting at a home with a sidewalk and a fairly long driveway. A few homeowners pay amounts as high as $500. This is possible if you live in a region with numerous snow and ice storms. It's enough money to regularly clear heavy accumulations on a lengthy driveway.
The exact cost of snow removal can vary considerably depending on the state or city in which you reside. Relevant factors include the difficulty of reaching your home, commercial vehicle tax and maintenance expenditures and local gasoline or diesel pricing. Your region's climate has a big impact as well. You'll probably spend more if you live in a mountainous area or a town near the Great Lakes.
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