Snow Removal Cost

• Also called snow throwers, snow blowers start about $100 -$500 for electric snow shovels or snow throwers for light snow removal (generally less than 4 inches deep). For up to 7 inches deep or heavier snow, single-stage gas snow blowers are good for moderately difficult conditions and cost about $350 -$800. For tough jobs -- a large area, steep slope, heavy snow -- a two-stage gas snow thrower that can clear a path 28-30 inches wide may cost $1,000 -$3,500 or more.
• Charges for one worker using a shovel, snow blower or a mower with snow blade attachment can run $25 -$75 an hour, and the time required will depend entirely on conditions and the size and type of area to be cleared. Clearing sidewalks and walkways is more time-consuming than plowing driveways, and will generally cost more.
• Contracting with a company to plow a standard driveway (of average length and with a two-car garage) varies considerably depending on location, but can run about $30 -$45 per storm; longer, steep or gravel driveways can be $50 -$65 or more depending on the length, slope and condition of the driveway. A Conneticut homeowner paid about $45 per storm of 3 inches or more for a 25x40 driveway and 130 feet of sidewalk. Hiring per storm or on an emergency basis could cost more.

• Electric snow throwers are less powerful than gas models, but easier to store; they're good in areas that don't receive a lot of snow, or for clearing extremely small areas. Single-stage gas snow blowers don't work well on slopes. Two-stage gas throwers first break up the snow then blow it out through a chute in two separate actions, and are generally considered the best buy if you tend to have snow more than 6 inches deep or snow that is heavy, wet or icy, or on a steep slope or rough gravel surface
• Equipment used for snow plowing can range from a truck with a plow attachment, a tractor-mounted snow blower or a large front-loader (a tractor with a front blade). Ask which types of equipment a company uses, and exactly how the snow will be removed on your property. Some homes are laid so that the driveway is parallel to the garage door and plowing the driveway can leave a snow bank in front of the garage door. It's important that the plowing contract specifically include removing such a snow bank. A plowing contractor should view your property before the snow starts to determine what sort of plowing challenges exist.

• Some plowing contracts set a limit on the number of plows per season, then charge a higher price for additional visits. Some companies include sanding and salting as part of the plowing contract rate and others bill it as an extra charge.

• You can often get a better deal if you sign a plowing contract before the snow season begins. Owners of vacation homes may get a better contract plowing rate if they agree their property can be plowed last, after occupied residences.
• Some public works departments will plow selected private driveways for a minimal fee of $25 -$50, but do the work on a time-available basis and may skip doing private driveways in order to clear more roads.

• CNN provides brief tips for buying the right snow thrower; a snow blower collector shares his detailed shopping suggestions; and Consumer Reports offers a buying guide.
• Ask neighbors, family and friends for recommendations for snow plowing services operating in your immediate area. Estimates are subject to change, so request bids or quotes. Be sure you understand exactly what's included (plowing, spreading sand or salt, who provides materials), when additional charges may apply and, if it becomes necessary, what it will take to end the contract. Request and check references. Make sure the company/contractor is properly licensed, bonded and insured, and check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

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