Top 8 Snow Removal Tools for Minnesota Homeowners

In Minnesota, snow removal isn't just a chore; it's a winter survival skill. Whether you're managing a residential driveway in Eagan or a commercial lot in St. Paul, the difference between a back-breaking morning and a quick cleanup often comes down to the tools in your arsenal. While a standard shovel is a staple, technology and design have given us a new generation of devices to make snow management safer and more efficient.

Here are the 8 best snow removal tools to keep your property accessible this winter.

1. Shovels with Wheels

The traditional snow shovel can be tough on the lower back, especially with wet, heavy snow. Shovels equipped with wheels act more like a plow, allowing you to push the snow rather than lift it. The leverage provided by the wheel fulcrum reduces strain significantly, making it an excellent choice for clearing long driveways or walkways without the physical toll of constant lifting.

2. Roof Rakes

Ice dams can cause severe damage to your home’s roof and gutters. A roof rake is an essential tool for Minnesota homeowners, allowing you to safely pull snow off the edge of your roof from the ground. Look for models with extendable handles and rollers or bumpers that protect your shingles while you clear the overhangs.

3. Leaf Blowers

Don't pack away your leaf blower when the leaves fall! For light, fluffy powder—often called "champagne powder"—a high-powered leaf blower is surprisingly effective. It can clear walkways, porches, and vehicles in seconds without the scraping sound of a shovel. It’s a favorite trick for quick touch-ups before the snow gets packed down.

4. Heated Mats

For high-traffic areas like front steps or wheelchair ramps, heated snow melting mats are a game-changer. These heavy-duty rubber mats plug into a standard outlet and generate enough heat to melt snow on contact, preventing ice accumulation entirely. They offer a "set it and forget it" solution that keeps entryways safe 24/7.

5. Snow Brushes with Telescoping Handles

We’ve all seen the driver peering through a tiny porthole in their windshield. A quality snow brush with a telescoping handle is vital for clearing off your entire vehicle, including the roof (which is required by law in many places to prevent flying snow hazards). Look for one with a pivoting head and a sturdy ice scraper on the opposite end.

6. Electric Power Shovels

Bridging the gap between a manual shovel and a full-sized snow blower, electric power shovels are lightweight throwers perfect for decks, patios, and sidewalks. They are easy to maneuver and can toss snow up to 20 feet away, saving you the effort of throwing it yourself.

7. Rolling Salt Spreaders

Salting by hand often leads to uneven coverage and wasted product. A rolling spreader (similar to what you use for fertilizer) ensures an even distribution of de-icing salt or sand. This consistency helps prevent slip-and-fall accidents on your driveway and protects your lawn from salt burn caused by over-application in one spot.

8. Heavy-Duty Ice Choppers

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, hard-pack snow turns into ice. A heavy-duty steel ice chopper (or scraper) is indispensable for breaking up stubborn ice patches that a shovel simply bounces off. Its concentrated weight allows you to chip away dangerous buildup on sidewalks and driveways efficiently.

Need Help with Snow Removal? Let's Talk.

While having the right tools is helpful, sometimes the best tool for the job is a professional team. Whether you are a homeowner or a commercial property manager, Monson Lawn & Landscape offers Snow and Ice Management services to keep your property safe and accessible. Contact us today for a free quote on service.