Must Have Winter Tools

Essential Outdoor Tools for Winter Preparedness: Pros, Cons, and Why You Need Them

As winter approaches, being prepared for harsh weather conditions is essential. Whether you’re managing a driveway buried in snow or ensuring safety during icy conditions, having the right outdoor tools can make all the difference. Here’s a list of must-have winter tools, along with their pros, cons, and why they’re essential.

Snow Shovel

A good snow shovel is the cornerstone of winter preparedness. It’s perfect for clearing pathways, driveways, and sidewalks.

• Why You Need It: A snow shovel is crucial for quick, manual snow removal, especially after overnight snowfalls. It helps keep your property accessible and safe.

• Pros:

• Affordable and widely available

• Great for smaller areas and light to moderate snow

• No fuel or electricity required

• Cons:

• Physically demanding, which can be tough on the back and arms

• Less effective for heavy, wet snow or large areas

Tip: check out this ergonomic shovel with a curved handle to reduce strain.

Ergonomic Shovel

Snow Blower

A snow blower is a powerful tool that can clear large areas quickly, making it ideal for heavy snowfalls.

• Why You Need It: Perfect for large driveways or areas where manual shoveling would be time-consuming and exhausting.

• Pros:

• Saves time and physical effort

• Can handle deep and heavy snow

• Available in electric, battery-powered, or gas models

• Cons:

• Expensive upfront cost

• Requires regular maintenance and storage space

• Noisy, and gas-powered models emit fumes

Tip: Choose a two-stage snow blower if you live in an area with heavy snowfall, as it can handle compacted snow more efficiently. Contact your nearest dealer to find the one that will be best suited to your needs. On the other hand, if you only have a small area to remove snow, an electric snow thrower may be the right choice for you.

Electric Snow Thrower

3. Ice Melt or Rock Salt

Ice melt and rock salt prevent ice formation and make walkways safer by increasing traction.

• Why You Need It: Icy conditions can be dangerous, causing slips and falls. Ice melt is essential for safety on walkways, driveways, and steps.

• Pros:

• Easy to apply and effective at preventing ice buildup

• Works quickly, reducing the need for constant shoveling

• Affordable and widely available

• Cons:

• Some products can damage concrete, plants, or be harmful to pets

• Needs frequent reapplication in heavy snow or ice storms

Tip: Opt for pet-safe or eco-friendly ice melt to avoid harming your landscaping or animals. The best place to pickup ice melt or rock salt is at your local home improvement store. These are relatively heavy items and shipping through mail will increase the costs.

Roof Rake

A roof rake helps remove snow from rooftops, preventing ice dams and potential damage to your home.

• Why You Need It: Heavy snow on roofs can lead to ice dams, leaks, or even roof collapse in extreme cases. A roof rake prevents these issues.

• Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to use

• Prevents costly roof repairs

• No need to climb on the roof, ensuring safety

• Cons:

• Limited reach for tall buildings or large roofs

• Requires some physical effort and can be time-consuming

Tip: The SNOWPEELER Roof Rake is one of the best on the market. A higher price point but it cuts down the required effort dramatically, especially on lower sloped roofs.

SNOWPEELER Roof Rake

5. Car Emergency Kit

A winter car emergency kit ensures you’re prepared for breakdowns or getting stuck in snow.

• Why You Need It: Getting stranded in winter can be dangerous, so having a kit with essentials like a shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, and blanket is crucial. For a full list of what to have in your car this winter check out our blog on Winter Car Safety Kits.

• Pros:

• Compact and easy to store in the trunk

• Provides peace of mind during winter travel

• Can be lifesaving in emergencies

• Cons:

• Needs periodic checking to replace expired items

• May require customization for different climates

Tip: Include items like hand warmers, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks for added safety.

Ergonomic Shovel

6. Snow Traction Aids (for Shoes and Vehicles)

Traction aids improve grip on icy surfaces for both people and vehicles.

• Why You Need It: Essential for preventing slips while walking or ensuring your vehicle doesn’t get stuck in icy conditions.

• Pros:

• Lightweight and portable for personal traction aids

• Affordable and easy to use

• Vehicle traction aids can be a lifesaver on icy roads

• Cons:

• Personal traction aids can be uncomfortable for extended use

• Vehicle traction aids need careful installation

Vehicle Traction Aid

Tip: Yaktrax or similar slip-on traction devices work well for shoes, while sandbags or tire chains are excellent for vehicles.

Winter can be harsh, but with the right winter tools, you can stay safe, comfortable, and prepared. From the trusty snow shovel to high-powered snow blowers, each tool plays a vital role in winter readiness. Understanding their pros and cons helps you choose the best options for your needs. Don’t wait until the first big snowfall—equip yourself now and enjoy a safer, smoother winter season.

the Tool Pro