Snow Removal Tips for Macomb County Homeowners

Michigan Winters and Your Property

Macomb County averages 30–40 inches of snow per year. That's a lot of weight, a lot of ice, and a lot of potential damage to your driveway, landscaping, and walkways if not handled correctly.

Protecting Your Driveway

Use the right de-icer. Rock salt (sodium chloride) is the cheapest option but is hard on concrete, asphalt, and landscaping plants nearby. Consider calcium chloride or magnesium chloride — they work at lower temperatures and are less damaging to surfaces and vegetation.

Don't let ice sit. Ice that freezes and thaws repeatedly causes more driveway damage than the snow itself. Address it early.

Shovel with the storm, not after. Removing snow in stages during a heavy storm is much easier than waiting for 12 inches to accumulate. It also reduces the risk of ice bonding to the surface.

Protecting Your Landscaping

Avoid piling salt-treated snow on beds. Salt buildup in soil damages plant roots and kills grass. When plowing or shoveling, direct snow away from garden beds and lawn areas when possible.

Watch for snow load on shrubs. Heavy wet snow can break branches on arborvitae, boxwood, and other evergreen shrubs. Gently brush snow off with a broom — don't shake or beat the branches.

Mark your bed edges before first snow. Putting down stakes or markers lets your plow operator know where the beds are and prevents them from being driven over.

The Case for a Seasonal Contract

If you're managing your own snow removal, you already know how unpredictable Michigan winters are. A seasonal contract with a professional crew means:

Tri-Point Landscaping offers snow removal contracts throughout Washington Township, Shelby Township, Macomb Township, and surrounding areas. Get a free estimate or call (586) 327-8080.