Best Practices for Snow Removal and Driveway Safety in Southwest Michigan

Winter in Southwest Michigan is beautiful — but it also brings heavy snow, icy driveways, freezing temperatures, and plenty of safety challenges for homeowners. Whether you live in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Schoolcraft, or any of the surrounding communities, keeping your driveway clear and safe isn’t just about convenience — it’s about preventing accidents, protecting your property, and reducing liability.

Here are the best snow removal and driveway safety practices every Southwest Michigan homeowner should follow.

❄️ 1. Shovel Early and Often

Snow in Michigan can pile up quickly, so it’s important to stay ahead of it.

Why it helps:

• Light, fresh snow is easier to remove than packed snow

• Prevents ice layers from forming underneath

• Reduces strain on your back and joints

Pro tip: Use an ergonomic shovel with a curved handle to reduce back strain. Push the snow rather than lifting when possible.

❄️ 2. Use the Right Ice Melt for Michigan Winters

Not all ice melts are created equal — and using the wrong one can damage your driveway, landscaping, or even harm pets.

Best options for Southwest Michigan homes:

• Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA): Gentle on concrete and safer for pets

• Calcium chloride: Works quickly in extremely cold temperatures

• Pet-safe blends: Good for homes with dogs or wildlife nearby

Avoid: Rock salt alone, especially on newer concrete — it can cause cracking and surface spalling.

❄️ 3. Clear a Path to Drains and Downspouts

When snow starts melting and refreezing, water needs somewhere to go.

Keep these clear:

• Street drains

• Driveway drains

• Gutter downspout areas

Blocked drainage can lead to dangerous black ice or water pooling near your foundation.

❄️ 4. Apply Sand or Grit for Extra Traction

Even after salting, Michigan driveways often stay slick.

Use traction materials like:

• Sand

• Pea gravel

• Kitty litter (non-clumping)

This is especially helpful on sloped driveways or shaded areas where sunlight can’t melt ice.

❄️ 5. Invest in a Quality Snowblower

If you have a long driveway or frequent snow accumulation (hello, lake-effect snow!), a snowblower is worth the investment.

Features ideal for Michigan winters:

• Two-stage blower for heavy or wet snow

• Heated handle grips

• Electric start

• LED headlights for early morning clearing

Routine maintenance — especially before the first snowfall — ensures it’s ready when you need it.

❄️ 6. Avoid Damaging Your Concrete or Asphalt

Snow removal tools can unintentionally scrape or crack your driveway.

Protect your surfaces by:

• Using a plastic shovel instead of metal

• Setting your snowblower’s skid shoes correctly

• Avoiding sharp tools that chip at the pavement

• Not using ice melt products known to damage concrete

If your driveway is newer, be especially cautious the first winter.

❄️ 7. Mark Your Driveway Before the First Snowfall

Southwest Michigan storms can hide your driveway edges under several inches of snow.

Use reflective driveway markers to:

• Outline the edges

• Protect landscaping

• Guide snowplows or contractors

• Prevent your snowblower from hitting grass or gravel

Markers should be placed every 6–8 feet for best visibility.

❄️ 8. Hire a Snow Removal Service (If Needed)

If you travel often, have limited mobility, or simply don’t want to deal with heavy winter cleanup, hiring a professional is a very Southwest Michigan–normal and smart option.

When choosing a contractor, look for:

• Reliable storm response times

• Seasonal or per-push pricing

• Positive local reviews

• Licensed and insured providers

Many services fill up before winter starts, so booking early is key.

❄️ 9. Use Proper Winter Footwear

Slip-and-falls are one of the most common winter injuries — and driveways are prime locations.

Look for boots with:

• Non-slip rubber soles

• Good traction

• Insulation for warmth

• Waterproof materials

Traction cleats you can attach to your boots are also great for icy days.

❄️ 10. Keep a Snow Safety Kit Handy

Michigan storms can change quickly — and being prepared makes a big difference.

Create a driveway safety kit with:

• Ice melt

• Sand or kitty litter

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Extra gloves

• Small shovel

• First-aid basics

Keep it in your garage or mudroom for easy access.

❄️ Stay Safe All Winter in Southwest Michigan

Maintaining your driveway and staying on top of snow removal helps protect your family, guests, and your property. With the right tools and a bit of preparation, even the harshest Michigan winter becomes a lot more manageable.

If you're preparing your home to sell this winter — or thinking about buying — the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team is here to help you navigate the Southwest Michigan market with confidence.

Need more homeowner tips or market insights?We’re just a call, text, or DM away!