Did you know that each winter in the US, around 100 people die while shoveling snow? In fact, doctors advise that people over 55, who are overweight, have coronary diseases, are smokers, or aren’t in the habit of exercising avoid shoveling snow.
Why? Probably because the strenuous exertion of lifting snow causes the blood pressure and heart rate to jump, and the cold, winter air causes a person’s arteries to constrict. In other words, you get the ideal conditions for a heart attack. And, even if you are physically able to shovel, the amount of snow and the time it takes to clear it may make it impractical for you to do it yourself.
If it’s unsafe or unwise for you shovel your snow, it’s time you learn more about snow removal rates in Milwaukee.
What Affects Local Snow Removal Costs?
Snow Removal vs. Snow Plowing
Though these two terms are often used interchangeably, there is a difference. If you hire someone for snow services, they’ll typically offer two slightly different services:
- Snow plowing, which refers to clearing your driveway and stacking the snow on your lawn.
- Snow removal, which refers to clearing your driveway and also taking the snow away with them in a truck to some pre-approved drop site.
Obviously, having snow removed from your property is more expensive. Yet, if you don’t want a 5-foot mound of snow blocking your windows, you may prefer snow removal.
When you request services, make sure you understand which service they are offering.
Equipment Used
The price you pay has a lot to do with the type of equipment your snow removal company will be using.
The less time they need to spend clearing your property, the less cost to you. For instance, using snowblowers makes removing snow a lot quicker than using shovels. Yet, some surfaces or tight areas make using a snowblower impossible.
Discuss your surface and space with the companies you contact to ensure you get an accurate quote.
Driveway Size and Design
As we mentioned, the size and surface of your driveway will play a role in the price you pay for snow removal or clearing. For instance:
- Long, steep or curved driveways will cost more.
- Dirt and gravel driveways typically cost more as well.
- Paved, straight driveways are the least expensive to clear.
Response Time
How quickly do you want the snow cleared? If you need to be in your car and on your way to work by 6 in the morning, you will likely be paying a premium to get you to the top of the list for clearing your driveway.
If you’re more concerned with getting the best snow removal rates you can, be prepared to wait for awhile after any big snowfall before you get plowed out.
Per-Service or Flat Rate
Many residential snow removal companies will charge you a flat rate for each time they come to clear your property. Other times, companies will give you a monthly rate. This means that whether it snows 40 times or once, you pay the same price.
Here are a few other important things you should know:
- Most companies have a set amount of snowfall that they will let sit before they come. Usually, you’ll need around 2 inches of snow accumulation before they will come to clear it away.
- During blizzards or snow storms that last for days, snow removal services will typically return periodically to clear your property, providing continuous service throughout the extended period of snowfall.
- The average yearly snowfall in Milwaukee is 50 inches. Keep that in mind when you choose per-service or flat rates.
The Extras
When you shop around for snow removal prices, make sure to ask about the extras, such as your porch, paths, steps and so on. Some companies include these extras in their snow removal rates and some don’t.
Confirm with the business what is included and what is not.
Get the Best Snow Removal Rates in Your Area
Before you hire anyone, your best bet to find the best services and the best prices in Milwaukee is to do your research. Our suggestions:
- Read each company’s reviews online and ask your friends for referrals.
- Make sure you know the size of your driveway, so you can get accurate snow removal rates without later getting additional costs added.
- Look for a company that is accredited with the Better Business Bureau and has a good rating.
- Don’t forget about quality of service! There’s little point in getting a great rate but poor service.
For great service at fair rates, contact us for a quote today. Our professional team provides around-the-clock snow removal services in Milwaukee and Waukesha.
