Hours: Monday - Friday: 9am-5pm | Weekends: By Appointment

Omni Pools and Scapes | Sophisticated Outdoor Living
1-800-237-6664

The Best Ways to Remove Ice and Snow This Winter

Jason Craycraft • May 12, 2023
The Best Ways to Remove Ice and Snow This Winter

Old Man Winter has arrived in Ohio. While we provide snow and ice removal services to our commercial clients, most homeowners choose to manage their own wintry weather effects. While our winters can be beautiful, they can also be inconvenient and, in some cases, dangerous. Read on to learn about how you can most effectively remove snow and ice accumulation from your patio, deck, driveway, stairs, and more.

Removing Snow and Ice From Your Pavers

If you have a paver patio, driveway, walkway, or another outdoor area, you might be concerned about how you can keep it free of snow and ice. The basic rules here are that you don’t want to do anything that will chip the pavers or cause cracking.

Shoveling is fine, but a plastic shovel is recommended. A heavy metal shovel can cause small chips on the edges of the pavers. The same theory goes for a snow plow. Make sure that you have a rubber blade on your plow. Also, if it’s been a while since your pavers were installed, make sure they are still level. If they aren’t, a snowplow can cause some damage.

It is fine to use a snowblower on your pavers. If the end of yours is metal, consider putting a plastic cover on it for the same reasons listed above.

Finally, you need to be careful with de-icing salts. You can use them, but it’s important to wash them away once the freeze is over. Salt is corrosive and can cause pitting or even cracking over time. Calcium magnesium acetate is an alternative to salt that you might consider. It is less corrosive and it won’t kill your plants in the spring. It’s also safe if your pet walks on it, which is not necessarily true for rock salt.

Removing Snow and Ice From Your Wooden Deck

If you have a wooden deck, you’ll want to try to keep it free from ice and snow to minimize slipperiness and, if it is unsealed, to protect it from water damage.

You can shovel your deck. Use a plastic shovel (because a metal shovel can damage the boards) and shovel in the same direction that the planks are laid. You don’t want to shovel “across the grain,” because you can easily nick a board if it is not perfectly level or if your shovel slips in between the grooves. If the snow is light, you can also use a broom to simply sweep it away. This is probably the least labor-intense option.

If you need to use something to melt ice, be aware that salt can erode your deck. You can still use it if you have to, but you should rinse it away as soon as feasible. Sand is less corrosive, but it can still be abrasive because of its rough texture, so that isn’t recommended.

Removing Snow and Ice From Your Concrete Driveway

If you are not lucky enough to have a radiant heat driveway, you will need to get outside and remove the snow and ice yourself. As with the other ground materials discussed so far, it’s best to use a plastic shovel if you are planning on shoveling it yourself. While a concrete driveway seems tough, a metal shovel can damage it.

You can use a snowblower to make quick work of your driveway, or you can plow it with your own plow or hire someone to remove the snow for you. The other alternative is to use salt or another chemical de-icer. The same caveats apply: Be sure to rinse it off of the surface of the driveway to prevent corrosion.

Tips To Prevent Snow and Ice Buildup

The best way to reduce the amount of time you spend wrestling with the elements is to prevent a lot of snow and ice from accumulating in the first place. Here are some tips for preventing a lot of slippery buildup:

Shovel often and early. During a storm, as long as it is safe to do so, go out every couple of hours to remove the snow from your outdoor surfaces. You can use a broom if the snow is light. Otherwise, use a plastic shovel.

Use de-icer. Sprinkling or spraying de-icer on your stairs can help keep them safe to step on. Go out and break up any ice that freezes frequently.

Sprinkle sand on non-wood surfaces. You can use sand to improve traction. Note that sand will not melt ice. It will only make it less slippery.

Don’t use kitty litter. You might read or hear the tip to sprinkle kitty litter on ice to increase traction. It’s best not to do this, because it will be messy once the snow melts later. Sand will sweep away easily, but kitty litter will not.

Wait it out. If it is very icy out to the point that it is unsafe, you might simply need to wait it out for a while. Don’t put yourself at risk if you don’t have to.

If you want to talk about landscaping or hardscaping services in Ohio, contact Omni Pools & Scapes. We can help you assess your needs and come up with a plan that will help you achieve the outdoor living space of your dreams.

RECENT POSTS

Winterizing Your Pool: A Comprehensive Guide by Omni Pools & Scapes

By JASON CRAYCRAFT • December 4, 2024
As the leaves fall and temperatures drop, December marks the time to think about closing your pool for the winter season. Here at Omni Pools & Scapes, we understand that proper winterization is crucial for protecting your pool and ensuring it's ready for use come spring. Here's your step-by-step guide to shutting down your pool the right way: Why Winterize Your Pool? Winterizing your pool isn't just a tradition; it's essential for: Preventing Damage : Ice can expand and crack your pool's structure or equipment. Avoiding Algae and Bacteria : Cold weather doesn't kill all microorganisms, so proper chemical treatment is necessary. Maintaining Water Quality : Ensuring your pool water remains balanced during winter minimizes the effort needed to reopen it. Step-by-Step Winterization Process: Balance the Water Chemistry: Test for pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine levels. Adjust as necessary to keep your water in balance, which helps in preventing algae and scale during the off-season. Clean the Pool Thoroughly: Remove leaves, debris, and vacuum the pool to leave it clean. Brush the walls to dislodge any dirt or algae. Clean or backwash your filter to ensure it's not clogged with debris from the season. Lower the Water Level: For pools in colder climates like Ohio, lower the water level below the skimmer and return lines to prevent ice damage. However, for pools with an auto-cover, maintain a level that doesn't interfere with the cover's ability to seal. Drain and Store Equipment: Drain the pump, filter, heater, and any other equipment to protect from freezing temperatures. Follow manufacturer guidelines for storage. Remove and store ladders, diving boards, and other accessories in a dry place to prevent rust or damage. Add Winterizing Chemicals: Use a winterizing kit or add chemicals separately to prevent algae growth and maintain water clarity. This typically includes: Shock treatment to kill off any remaining algae and bacteria. Algaecide to prevent growth during winter. Sequestering agents to prevent staining from metals in the water. Install the Pool Cover: For above-ground pools, a solid cover is essential. For in-ground pools, mesh or solid covers can be used, depending on your preference for water management during winter. Ensure the cover is secure and tight to keep out debris and to minimize water accumulation on top. Circulate Water One Last Time: Run your pump with the winterizing chemicals to distribute them evenly. Then, shut down your system. Protect Against Freeze: Use pool antifreeze in skimmer and return lines to prevent freezing and damage. Consider a pool heater or invest in a freeze protection system if you live in an area with extreme cold snaps. 

Elevating Your Outdoor Space with Hardscapes

By JASON CRAYCRAFT • November 17, 2024
At Omni Pools & Scapes, we believe that the beauty of a well-designed pool area extends beyond the water itself. Hardscaping plays a pivotal role in defining the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor living space. Let's explore how to integrate hardscapes to elevate your backyard into a true outdoor masterpiece. What is Hardscaping? Hardscaping refers to the non-living features of your landscape, like pathways, patios , retaining walls , and outdoor kitchens . These elements provide structure, facilitate movement, and create focal points or areas for leisure and entertainment. The Role of Hardscaping in Pool Design Functional Aesthetics : Patios : A well-designed patio around your pool can serve as a deck for sunbathing , a dance floor for parties, or a dining area for al fresco meals. Choose materials that complement your pool's style, whether it's natural stone for a rustic feel or sleek concrete for modern elegance. Walkways : These guide guests around your pool safely while adding to the overall design. They can be made of pavers, gravel, or even wood, depending on the ambiance you wish to create. Defining Spaces : Outdoor Kitchens : Imagine walking from your pool to a fully functional kitchen area. Hardscaping here includes countertops, grills, and seating, turning your backyard into an entertainment zone. Fire Features : From fire pits to outdoor fireplaces , these elements not only extend your pool season into cooler months but also serve as a gathering spot for nighttime enjoyment. Water Management : Retaining Walls : Useful for managing water flow, preventing erosion, and creating multi-level landscapes that add depth and interest. Drainage Systems : Properly designed hardscapes can incorporate elegant solutions for water drainage, ensuring your pool area remains pristine and functional.

Understanding Pool Water Chemistry

By JASON CRAYCRAFT • October 14, 2024
As you dive into the joy of pool ownership, maintaining the right water chemistry is crucial for ensuring your swimming experience is both safe and enjoyable. At Omni Pools & Scapes, we believe that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to the health of your pool. Here's an in-depth look at pool water chemistry to help you keep your pool in pristine condition. The Basics of Pool Chemistry pH Levels : The pH scale measures how acidic or basic your pool water is, with a range of 7.2 to 7.8 being ideal for human comfort and effective sanitation. Too low, and you risk corrosion and skin irritation; too high, and you might face issues with scale formation and reduced chlorine efficiency. Chlorine : This is your primary sanitizer, killing off bacteria, algae, and other pathogens. The recommended free chlorine level is between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm (parts per million). Chlorine levels need regular testing, especially after heavy use or weather events like rain. Additional Chemical Balancers Alkalinity : Total alkalinity acts as a buffer for pH, helping to keep it stable. Aim for 80-120 ppm. If alkalinity is off, pH swings can become frequent, making maintenance a challenge. Calcium Hardness : This affects the clarity of the water and the longevity of your pool's surfaces. The ideal range is 200 to 400 ppm. Too low, and water could become corrosive; too high, and you'll see scale buildup. Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer) : This protects chlorine from being broken down by UV rays. Levels should be between 30 and 50 ppm. Without enough stabilizer, your chlorine will dissipate too quickly, especially in sunny areas like Columbus. Why Balancing is Essential  Balanced water chemistry: Protects Your Investment : Prevents damage to pool walls, equipment, and surfaces. Ensures Swimmer Comfort : Reduces the risk of eye irritation, skin rash, and other discomforts. Keeps the Pool Clear : Balanced water results in a clearer, more inviting pool, free from cloudy water or algae blooms. Common Problems and Solutions Cloudy Water : Could be due to imbalanced pH, low sanitizer levels, or high calcium hardness. Test and adjust chemical levels accordingly. Green Water : Indicates algae growth, often resulting from low chlorine levels or inadequate circulation. Shock the pool with chlorine, clean filters, and possibly use an algaecide. Scale Formation : Occurs when calcium hardness and pH are too high. Use a scale inhibitor and adjust these levels. Testing and Maintenance Regular Testing : Use test strips or a liquid reagent test kit weekly, or after heavy use. Consider investing in a digital tester for more accurate readings over time. Chemical Adjustments : Adjust chemicals gradually; sudden changes can shock the system, leading to further imbalance. Circulation : Ensure your pool's filtration system runs enough to circulate all the water through the filter at least once per day. Professional Insight While DIY testing and maintenance are part of pool ownership, professional help can be invaluable: Seasonal Openings and Closings : Have Omni Pools & Scapes handle these critical times to ensure your pool starts and ends the season correctly. Regular Check-Ups : We can provide periodic professional analysis and maintenance, ensuring your pool chemistry remains balanced year-round. Conclusion Understanding and managing your pool's water chemistry is like being the conductor of an orchestra, where each element must harmonize for the perfect performance. It involves vigilance, knowledge, and sometimes professional assistance. At Omni Pools & Scapes, we're here to guide you through this process, ensuring your pool remains a clear, safe, and inviting oasis for all your summer activities. For more information or to schedule a professional pool service , visit us at www.omnipoolsandscapes.com . Keep the chemistry right, and your pool will be the gem of your backyard for years to come.
Share by: