What Is DIY Snow Removal?

DIY snow removal involves manually removing now using tools like a snow blower, shovels, or roof rakes. It is economically viable, provided that you are equipped with the necessary tools and put in the effort. It is an old-time winter exercise, and it is not for everyone.

Pros of DIY Snow Removal

1. Cost-Effective – If you have a snow blower or shovel, you can clear snow at a low or no cost. You are not paying a service fee on a snowfall-by-snowfall basis.
2. On Your Schedule– You are not obliged to wait until a contractor arrives; choose when you want to start.
3. Satisfying Work– Some homeowners like the immediate consequence of clearing their own driveways and sidewalks.
4. Flexibility – You have the option to clear anywhere and in any way, including tight spots that machines might not reach.

Cons of DIY Snow Removal

1. Time-Consuming– Snow may take hours to be cleared, particularly where minimum equipment is involved.
2. Physical Strain – Shoveling can lead to back pain, muscle strain, or even more severe issues like injuries or heart problems, especially during severe storms.
3. Tool Maintenance – Snow blowers require fuel, storage, and regular maintenance, whereas shovels have a limited lifespan.
4. Safety Issues– DIY snow removal is dangerous unless done with the appropriate technique or treatment of the ice.

What Are Snow Removal Services?

When you hire snow removal services, the professionals will arrive at your place and clear the snow either by plowing or shoveling, and also de-ice walkways and make everything safe. These services include single-visit service and even full-season contracts.

Pros of Hiring Snow Removal Services

• Comfort– Wake up to a cleared-up driveway following a storm without raising a finger.
• Speed & Efficiency– Pros operate machinery such as plows and blowers, which are much faster at clearing snow.
• Safety First– Professionals receive training, insurance, and necessary equipment to work safely.
• Regular Results – You receive consistent snow removal on the walkways and corners.

Cons of Hiring Snow Removal Services

• Increased Cost– Emergency call-outs or normal services can be costly.
• Less Flexibility– When it snows heavily, you can take your turn in their path.
• Contract Terms– Some companies require seasonal contracts or charge extra fees during major snowfalls.
• Unnoticed costs, such as sidewalk sweeping or steep driveway charges, can add to the bill.

Cost of DIY vs Professional Snow Removal

This is in the real numbers of identifying the real cost of DIY vs professional snow removal.

DIY Cost

• Basic Tools (shovel, salt): $50–$100 (one-time)
• Snow Blower: $75 for rental
• Per Storm (time/labor value): 2–3 hours
• Seasonal Cost: De-icing product salts

Professional Snow Removal Cost

Cost depends on several factors, including location, frequency of service, types of service, size and depth of snow, driveway or removal place’s size, labor rate, type of equipment used, and type of emergency.

• Normal range (Residential): $30 – $203
• Driveway, sidewalk:$30 –$100+ per visit 
• Seasonal contract: $200-$700 

Snow removal may be low-cost on paper; however, in practice, the time, effort, and risk involved make snow removal more expensive than it initially appears. If you frequently experience snowfall or have a long driveway, hiring someone might be a wiser investment.

Get your full cost guide from Angi: Snow Removal Cost: Contracts and Single-Time [2025 Data]

Snow Shoveling vs Snow Plowing

Your strategy also includes the snow shoveling vs. snow plowing choice.

Snow Shoveling

• Ideal for: Small spaces, narrow places, staircases, porches.
• Equipment: Shovel or mini snow blower.
• Pros: Accurate, compact tools.
• Cons: More physically demanding, slower for large areas.
  

Snow Plowing

• Ideal for: Long driveways, commercial lots, and areas with large amounts of snow.
• Equipment: Truck plow or big blower.
• Pros: Fast and effective.
• Cons: Expensive tools (self-made) or more expensive services (professional).

When you are working at this yourself, shoveling is fine for smaller jobs. Snow plowing usually comes with hiring professionals, and it is faster, safer, and easier on you.

DIY snow removal tips, 

DIY works best if. 

• You are physically healthy and not hurt.
• You have good equipment (or don’t mind buying it).
• You get only occasional snow.
• You are free to have the time and effort to handle it.

Safely remove clear snow in these DIY snow removal tips:

• It is important to start early to prevent the snow from accumulating. 
• Have a strong snow shovel with a comfortable handle. 
• Where possible, push snow rather than picking it. 
• Spray the shovel with cooking oil to prevent it from clogging with snow. 
• Scatter sand or kitty litter in icy areas. 
• Clean off the snow on the roof using a roof rake. 
• You must remember to wear layers and to take a break to prevent overwork. 
• Never use hot water, as it will refreeze to ice. 
• Last but not least, maintaining clear sidewalks and driveways will make shoveling easier and reduce the risk of slipping.
• Try pre-treating walkways with salt before a snowfall and shoveling in layers of heavy snowfall.

When You Should Hire Snow Removal Services

Unless you employ snow removal services.

• You possess a big property or driveway.
• You have a lot of frequent snow.
• You are in a hurry or are afraid of being hurt.
• You desire tranquility and sound clearing.

Until they have fallen out of joint or gone on ice, homeowners tend to underestimate the physical challenges of snow removal. Professional services eliminate this risk.

Snow Removal Service Benefits That DIY Can’t Match

These are some of the key advantages of hiring snow removal services, which offer significant benefits to the investment.

• Emergency Availability– Surprise snow last night? Professionals do not need to scramble, fumbling with a shovel, in the dark.
• De-icing Services– Many companies will apply salt or brine on your behalf to keep you safe against slips and falls.
• Roof & Gutter Clearing – Certain services remove snow from the roof or ice dams, which is hazardous territory for most DIYers.
• Insurance Coverage– Pro crews are typically insured in case something goes wrong, and you are not liable.

Mixed Approach: The Best of Both Worlds?

Many homeowners use a hybrid model. You can handle light snowfall and pathway maintenance on your own using smart DIY snow removal tips, and then bring in the experts when a big storm hits. It is cheap and it minimizes physical exhaustion.

In Summary

To conclude the discussion on DIY vs hiring snow removal services, we shall briefly compare the two. 

If you love the challenge of snowblowing yourself and are ready, DIY snow removal may be the right choice. Nevertheless, to be consistent, safe, and efficient, it makes sense to pay for snow removal services.

With Amherst Landscaping, you can get every landscaping service, in addition to the benefits of our snow removal service. Try our friendly blog for more valuable insights: Why Hire a Professional Landscaper in Amherst, NY

Call to Action

Snow should not interfere with your plans in the winter. When you need a full-service snow removal company, Amherst Landscaping is there to the rescue, and when there is a major storm, we can offer you a hand. Maintain the premises in good and clean condition.

Call us at +1 716-235-1333 or visit Amherst Landscaping to schedule your service today.