How Often Should My Parking Lot Be Plowed During a Storm?

Winter storms are more than a nuisance, they can disrupt operations, create liability risks, and impact customer confidence. For commercial properties, keeping your parking lot safe and accessible is critical. Supreme Lawn & Landscaping provides professional snow and ice management that keeps businesses operating no matter the conditions.

Key Takeaways

• Assess your parking lot and identify hazards before winter to prevent damage and streamline plowing.
• Plow proactively during storms to maintain accessibility and reduce buildup.
• Move snow strategically to protect infrastructure and maintain visibility.
• Keep ADA areas, pedestrian zones, and high-traffic routes clear at all times.
• Use proper deicing before and after plowing to reduce slip hazards and maintain safe surfaces.

Understanding The Importance Of St. Cloud Snow Removal

When winter weather hits Central Minnesota, commercial properties must maintain clear, safe access for employees, tenants, and customers. A snow-covered parking lot puts your business at risk, both operationally and legally. Supreme Lawn & Landscaping focuses on proactive snow removal that protects your property, reduces liability, and ensures uninterrupted business continuity. Protect your property with a dedicated snow management partner, contact Supreme Lawn & Landscaping for a custom plan.

Ensuring Business Continuity During Winter Storms

When accumulation begins, commercial properties can face immediate operational challenges. Clear access signals reliability to your clients and ensures uninterrupted workflow for your team. Supreme Lawn & Landscaping establishes service triggers, priority routes, and response protocols so your business remains open and accessible throughout every storm. Request a commercial snow plan review to eliminate downtime this winter.

Protecting Your Property From Snow And Ice Damage

Snow and ice can degrade asphalt, damage curbs, and create long-term structural issues if not managed correctly. Supreme Lawn & Landscaping prevents these risks through timely removal, proper blade height calibration, and careful monitoring of high-risk areas such as loading docks and drainage points.

Maintaining Accessibility For Customers And Employees

Think about it: if your parking lot looks like a winter obstacle course, people are going to think twice before stopping. Slips, trips, and falls are a real concern when ice and snow make surfaces slick. Keeping pathways clear and parking spots visible isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety. It ensures that everyone, from your most regular customer to a first-time visitor, can get to your building without incident. This includes making sure that:

• Parking spaces are clearly defined and accessible.
• Walkways leading from the lot to the building entrances are clear.
• Loading docks and employee entrances are prioritized for access.

Proper snow removal isn’t just a service; it’s an investment in your business’s reputation and the safety of everyone who visits your property. It shows you care about your customers and employees, and that you’re prepared for whatever winter throws your way.

Strategic Planning For Effective Parking Lot Plowing

Pre-Season Site Inspections And Lot Familiarization

Effective snow management starts long before the first snowfall. Supreme Lawn & Landscaping conducts pre-season site inspections to document hazards, identify traffic flow, map snow storage locations, and ensure equipment compatibility. This proactive approach minimizes disruptions and protects your infrastructure. Book your pre-season site inspection before peak storm activity begins.

Identifying And Marking Potential Hazards

During those pre-season walks, we’re also on the lookout for anything that could cause trouble. Think curbs that are a bit worn, landscaping features that might be hard to see once covered in snow, or even uneven pavement. We’ll mark these areas, either with temporary stakes or by making notes on our maps. This way, our drivers know exactly where to be careful. It’s all about preventing damage to your property and keeping everyone safe. We want to make sure that when we’re clearing snow, we’re not creating new problems.

Establishing Clear Service Triggers And Scope

Nobody wants to be left guessing when the plows will show up. That’s why we work with you to set clear expectations right from the start. What amount of snow triggers a service call? What areas of the lot are prioritized? What’s the plan for ongoing clearing during a long storm? Having these details ironed out in a commercial snow removal contract means everyone is on the same page. It helps us provide consistent service and helps you know what to expect, no matter the weather. It’s about having a plan that works for your business throughout the winter months.

The Art Of Efficient Parking Lot Plowing Techniques

When the snow starts falling, it’s not just about driving a truck around. Effective parking lot plowing is a skill, a mix of strategy and precision. We’re talking about getting the job done right, fast, and without causing more problems. It’s about making sure your business stays open and accessible, no matter what winter throws at you.

Back Dragging Snow Away From Structures

First things first, we need to clear snow away from buildings and any other structures. This is called “back dragging.” It means using the truck’s reverse to pull snow away from doors, loading docks, and garage entrances. This is super important because pushing snow against a building can cause damage later, especially when it melts and can seep into foundations. It also makes sure people can get in and out without tripping over snow piles right at the entrance. We always start here to create a safe zone around your property.

Mastering The Windrowing Method For Snow Movement

Once the areas near buildings are clear, we move to the main part of the lot. This is where “windrowing” comes in. Think of it like making long, neat rows of snow. We usually start in the middle of the lot and push the snow outwards, creating these continuous rows that we can then move to designated piling spots. For bigger lots, using an angle plow with wings is a real game-changer. It lets us take wider passes, moving more snow with each trip. This method is all about efficiency, making sure we cover the whole area without leaving much behind. It’s a systematic approach that helps us manage even heavy snowfalls effectively.

Utilizing Specialized Equipment For Maximum Efficiency

Using the right tools makes a huge difference. We’re not just using any old plow. For large parking areas, an angle plow with wings can seriously speed things up, sometimes by as much as 50% compared to a standard plow. This means we can clear your lot faster and more thoroughly. We also pay attention to things like wind direction when we’re piling snow, trying to place it where it’s less likely to blow back onto cleared areas. It’s all about smart planning and using equipment that’s up to the task. If you’re looking for reliable commercial snow plowing, having the right gear is key.

Proper preparation before the snow even starts is half the battle. Knowing the layout of your lot, where obstacles are, and where snow should be piled makes the actual plowing process much smoother and faster. It’s like having a map before you start a journey.

Here’s a quick rundown of our plowing approach:

• Back Dragging: Clearing snow away from building entrances and structures first.
• Windrowing: Pushing snow into organized rows for efficient removal.
• Strategic Piling: Placing snow in designated areas to avoid re-clearing.
• Equipment Choice: Using specialized plows for speed and effectiveness.

We also try to do most of our plowing during times when there are fewer cars and people around, like overnight or early in the morning. This makes it safer for our crew and allows us to work more quickly without interruptions. It’s all part of making sure your parking lot is safe and accessible for everyone, keeping your business running smoothly.

Timing Is Everything: When To Plow During A Storm

When a big snowstorm hits St. Cloud, you’ve got to think about when to get the plows out there. It’s not just about waiting for the snow to stop. Sometimes, you need to get out there while it’s still coming down.

Plowing With The Storm For Optimal Results

Waiting until the storm is completely over can sometimes be a mistake. If you get a foot of snow overnight and wait until morning, you’ve got a huge mess to deal with. Plus, cars might have already parked, making it harder to plow effectively. Getting out there periodically during the storm is often the best approach. It breaks up the accumulation, making it easier to manage and preventing deep drifts from forming. Think of it like shoveling your driveway – doing a little bit every few hours is way easier than tackling a mountain of snow all at once.

Leveraging Low-Traffic Hours For Safer Operations

When do you actually send the crews out? Well, it depends. During a storm, you want to get the snow moved, but you also don’t want to cause accidents. That’s why plowing during low-traffic hours is a smart move. Early mornings, late nights, or even during the heart of a blizzard when most people are staying put can be ideal. This gives the plow operators more space to work and reduces the risk of them hitting a car or, worse, a person. It’s all about finding that balance between clearing the snow and keeping everyone safe.

The Benefits Of Continuous Clearing

Continuous clearing is the name of the game for many businesses, especially those that can’t afford to shut down. Imagine a grocery store or a hospital – they need access no matter what. For these places, having a snow removal plan that involves frequent plowing, even multiple times during a single storm, is key. It keeps the parking lot usable and safe for customers and employees throughout the event. It might cost a bit more upfront, but it can save a lot in lost business and potential accidents.

Here’s a general idea of how often plowing might happen:

The goal is to keep the lot as clear as possible, preventing large accumulations that become difficult and dangerous to move. It’s about proactive management, not just reactive cleanup.

Critical Considerations For Snow Pile Placement

Maintaining Visibility For Traffic Flow

When we’re moving snow, one of the biggest things we think about is making sure nobody’s view gets blocked. Piling snow too high or too close to corners can make it really hard for drivers to see other cars, pedestrians, or even just the road itself when they’re pulling out or coming into your lot. We try to keep piles low and out of the way, especially near entrances, exits, and busy intersections. It’s all about keeping things safe for everyone.

Avoiding Drains, Catch Basins, And Fire Hydrants

This is a big one. You don’t want to pile snow right on top of drains or catch basins. When that snow melts, all that water has nowhere to go, and you can end up with puddles or even ice patches right where people walk or drive. Plus, nobody wants a blocked fire hydrant. Emergency services need clear access, so we always make sure those are kept completely clear. It’s just common sense, really.

Preventing Damage To Buildings And Landscaping

Nobody wants snow piled up against the side of their building. For starters, it can trap moisture, which isn’t great for the foundation or walls. It can also lead to ice dams forming on the roof. And let’s not forget about the plants and landscaping around your property. We aim to keep snow piles a good distance away from buildings and any nice landscaping you have, so nothing gets crushed or damaged when the snow eventually melts or when we’re moving it around.

Here’s a quick rundown of where we try to keep snow piles:

• Away from building foundations and walls.
• Clear of all storm drains and catch basins.
• Well away from fire hydrants and other utility access points.
• Not blocking any sidewalks, walkways, or emergency exits.
• In areas that won’t impede traffic flow or parking availability.

The goal with snow pile placement isn’t just to get the snow out of the way. It’s about smart planning to prevent future problems. Think about where the meltwater will go, how it might affect your property, and what potential hazards could pop up if snow is just dumped anywhere. A little thought upfront saves a lot of headaches later on.

The Role Of Deicing In Snow Removal Strategies

Plowing gets rid of the bulk of the snow, sure, but it often leaves behind a sneaky problem: ice. That slick stuff is what really causes most of the slips and falls. This is where deicing comes in. It works hand-in-hand with plowing to keep things safe.

Pre-Treating Surfaces To Prevent Ice Bonding

Think of pre-treating like putting on a protective shield before the storm even hits. We apply a liquid deicer or a brine solution to your pavement before the snow or ice starts falling. This creates a barrier, stopping the snow and ice from sticking too tightly to the surface. It makes the plowing process much easier later on and is great at preventing new ice from forming, especially during those tricky freezing rain events. It’s a proactive step that really helps.

Post-Treatment For Melting Lingering Ice

After the plowing is done and the snow is cleared, we often come back for a post-treatment. This usually involves applying granular deicers, like rock salt or calcium chloride. These products work to melt any ice that’s still there and stop surfaces from refreezing. Calcium chloride, for instance, is really effective even when it gets super cold outside, often outperforming regular salt. This step breaks that stubborn ice bond, making your parking lots and walkways safe for everyone. We are careful to choose products that are gentler on your concrete and landscaping, keeping your property’s specific needs in mind. For more details on how we handle winter conditions, check out our Snow Management page.

Choosing The Right Deicing Agents For Your Property

Not all deicers are created equal, and we pay close attention to what we use. While standard rock salt is common, we can select products that are less harsh on your concrete, asphalt, and surrounding landscaping. We also consider the environmental impact. The goal is always to make sure your parking lot and walkways are safe and easy to navigate, no matter what winter throws at us.

Here’s a quick look at common deicing agents:

• Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride): Most common and cost-effective. Works down to about 15°F (-9°C).
• Calcium Chloride: Works at much lower temperatures, down to -25°F (-32°C). Melts ice faster but can be more corrosive.
• Magnesium Chloride: Effective down to about 5°F (-15°C). Generally less corrosive than calcium chloride.
• Potassium Chloride: Works down to about 15°F (-9°C). Often used on airport runways.
• Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): Less corrosive and better for the environment, but more expensive. Works down to about 20°F (-7°C).

Selecting the right deicer involves balancing effectiveness in cold temperatures with potential damage to surfaces and the environment. It’s a decision we make based on the specific conditions and your property’s needs.

We always aim for a solution that provides maximum safety with minimal negative impact. It’s about keeping your business accessible and your visitors safe throughout the winter months.

Final Touches For A Pristine And Safe Parking Lot

After the main snow clearing is done, it’s time to really make sure everything is perfect. This is where we focus on the details that make a big difference in how safe and usable your parking lot is.

Clearing Curbs And Edges Meticulously

We don’t just push snow around; we make sure it’s moved completely away from where it shouldn’t be. This means plowing right up to the curbs so that every parking spot is fully accessible. We also square off the corners and edges of the lot. This gets rid of any messy snow trails left behind by the bigger plows. Sometimes, we need to use smaller equipment or even shovels for those tight spots, like around light poles or walkways, to make sure no snow is left where it could cause problems.

Ensuring ADA Compliance For Handicapped Areas

Accessibility is super important, especially for those who need it most. We pay special attention to handicapped parking spaces and the pathways leading to them. The goal is to make sure these areas are completely clear and safe, meeting all the requirements so that everyone can get in and out of your facility without any issues. This isn’t just about following rules; it’s about making sure everyone feels welcome and can access your business easily.

Addressing Any Remaining Snow Drifts Or Patches

Sometimes, even after the main plowing, you might have small snow drifts or patches left, especially in corners or areas where the wind piles up snow. Our final pass is all about getting rid of these. We want a smooth, even surface across the entire lot. This attention to detail helps prevent ice from forming in these leftover patches and makes the lot look much better too. It’s the little things that really make a parking lot safe and professional.

Leaving snow piled up or in uneven patches can create hidden hazards. When this snow melts, it can refreeze into slick ice, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Proper final clearing removes these potential dangers, making the lot safe for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Addressing Common Concerns In Parking Lot Snow Removal

We get it. Winter storms bring a whole host of worries for business owners, and keeping your parking lot clear is a big one. You’re probably wondering about a few things, and that’s totally normal. Let’s break down some of the most frequent questions we hear.

Preventing Damage To Curbs And Landscaping

It’s a real concern: how do you get the snow out without wrecking the edges of your property? The key is careful plowing and knowing your lot. Our crews are trained to recognize where curbs and landscaping are, and they adjust their plowing accordingly. We use plows that are set to the right height, and we avoid aggressive pushing right up against delicate areas. It’s about being smart with the equipment, not just brute force.

Managing Snow Removal In Large Parking Areas

Big lots can seem like a mountain of snow, right? For these, efficiency is everything. We often start by clearing the perimeter and access points first, getting people in and out safely. Then, we use a method called windrowing, pushing the snow into long piles that are easier to manage and move to designated spots. Specialized equipment, like plows with wings, can really speed things up, clearing more snow with each pass. We also try to work during off-peak hours, like overnight, when there are fewer cars and people around. This lets us work faster and safer.

The Importance Of Experienced Snow Removal Crews

Honestly, you can’t just hand the keys to anyone with a truck and a plow. Experience matters a lot. Our teams know the tricks of the trade – how to read the weather, how to handle different types of snow, and most importantly, how to operate safely around your property and people. They understand the nuances of plowing, like back-dragging snow away from buildings to prevent damage and ice buildup. Plus, they know where to put the snow so it doesn’t cause new problems down the line.

When snow piles up, it can hide all sorts of things. We’ve seen everything from branches and debris to forgotten equipment. Clearing the snow not only makes the lot usable but also helps uncover and remove these hidden hazards. It’s a step that often gets overlooked but is pretty important for overall safety and tidiness.

Here’s a quick look at what goes into managing snow on a large lot:

• Initial Access: Clearing main entrances and exits first.
• Systematic Clearing: Using techniques like windrowing to move snow efficiently.
• Strategic Piling: Moving snow to pre-determined, out-of-the-way locations.
• Final Touches: Cleaning up edges and ensuring all areas are accessible.

Beyond Plowing: Comprehensive Winter Lot Maintenance

Okay, so the big plows have done their thing, and the main parking lot looks pretty decent. But we’re not quite done yet. Think of it like cleaning your house – you don’t just shove everything into a corner, right? We need to do a proper job to make sure everything is safe and tidy.

Clearing Sidewalks and Walkways

This is a big one. People need to get from their cars to your building without breaking their necks. We pay close attention to all the walkways, entryways, and any public paths around your property. It’s not just about pushing snow around; it’s about making sure those areas are clear and safe for foot traffic. We use smaller equipment, like snow blowers and shovels, for these tighter spots. Keeping these areas clear is just as important as the main lot.

Removing Debris Hidden by Snowfall

Winter storms can really stir things up. Sometimes, trash, leaves, or other bits of debris get buried under the snow. Once the snow starts melting or we’re doing our final cleanup, these things can pop up. We make an effort to clear away any of this hidden junk. It just makes the place look a lot better and prevents potential hazards or clogs later on.

Reducing Moisture Intrusion Into Facilities

This might sound a bit technical, but it’s really about preventing water damage. When snow piles up against the foundation of your building, it can melt and seep into the structure. This can lead to all sorts of problems, like mold or damage to the interior. We make sure that snow piles are placed a good distance away from your building’s foundation. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of headaches and repair costs down the road. We also check that drainage areas aren’t blocked by snow or ice, so meltwater can go where it’s supposed to.

Here’s a quick look at what we focus on:

• Sidewalks & Entryways: Clear and safe for pedestrians.
• Hidden Debris: Removed for a cleaner appearance and to prevent issues.
• Foundation Protection: Snow piles kept away from buildings to stop water damage.
• Drainage: Ensuring meltwater can flow freely.

It’s the little details that really make a difference in winter maintenance. We aim to go beyond just moving snow; we want to make sure your property is safe, accessible, and protected from the elements all season long.

Winter is more than just snow removal. Our complete lot maintenance services go beyond simple plowing to keep your property safe and accessible all season long. We handle everything from de-icing to clearing walkways, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone. Ready to see how we can help? Visit our website today to learn more about our year-round solutions!

Staying Ahead of the Snow

After primary clearing, we focus on curbs, walkways, ADA spaces, and tight areas to ensure full compliance and reduce liability. A detailed finish ensures your property looks professional and stays safe. Ensure full-property detailing with every snow event, contact us today.