Category Archives: Blog

Black Ice Removal In Chicago

Black ice is virtually transparent and much harder to see. It’s only black because you can see the pavement surface underneath. Drivers usually mistake black ice for wet pavement, so they’re often totally unprepared to react to the slippery conditions. One study found that driving on black ice was five times more dangerous than driving in normal conditions. 

For black ice to form, certain conditions have to be met. First, there has to be water present. This can be from mist, fog, or even condensation from car exhaust pipes. Heavy rain usually splashes and has swirls and trapped pockets of air and generally freezes. Slowly melting snow is the most likely culprit responsible for the formation of black ice. As the temperature rises the snow melts and the resulting water finds its way into lower areas and eventually settles. As the temperature lowers this water refreezes into crystal clear and dangerous black ice. 

Black Ice can also form on roads if the surface temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius for our metric friends). This is especially true in the morning when the cold-winter’s-sun (now there’s an oxymoron for you) has not yet peaked out above the horizon to “warm” things up. 

It goes without saying that these conditions are very region-specific. Black ice is very fond of places where the sun doesn’t shine, and can often be found in tunnels and underpasses from water run-off that has frozen overnight. If you have a shaded garage or have a tree hanging over, don’t be surprised to find a patch or two of black ice when you step out to grab the morning paper. 

What Are the Hidden Dangers of Black Ice?

Man slipping & falling on Black Ice in Chicago

Living in the windy city has more than its fair share of perks. We have great food, rich history, magnificent architecture, world-class sports teams, and not to mention the breath-taking Lake Michigan. However, there is one downside to living in Chicago and that’s dealing with the harsh winters and the resulting hazardous conditions that are caused by black ice. NBC5 Chicago reports that black ice causes more than 100 crashes on Chicago roadways yearly. Hundreds of other accidents including slip and fall and property damage are attributed to the hard to see black ice. 

Over the years, Chicagoans have become quite knowledgeable in the science of black ice treatment. One such Chicago-based company is Snow Pushers Chicago. Founded in 2015, Snow Pushers has been Chicago’s choice for snow removal and black ice treatment. Our team of experienced snow removal professionals works around the clock during the winter season to ensure that property and business owners can go about their day with no issues as a result of black ice buildup. 

How Is Black Ice Removed?

The first line of defense in the battle against black ice is rock salt. But, in order for the salt to be effective, any layers of fresh snow need to be removed. The snow removal pros at Snow Pushers take meticulous care in clearing snow. We utilize different methods depending on the size of the area including shovels, plows, and snow blowers. Snow Pushers has the quality and quantity of snow plowing equipment and the professional staff to handle the largest and most demanding sites. We then apply a layer of rock salt to the area, being careful to avoid any grass or foliage. The freezing point of saltwater is lower than that of freshwater so the addition of rock salt effectively raises the temperature of the ice causing it to liquefy. After 15-30 mins, the black ice will melt enough that it will be easy to shovel away or run off if there is a slope.

We pay careful attention to treat black ice on steps and walkways as these are high traffic areas and create a risk. Our skilled de-icing and removal specialists will leave your walkways clear and safe for you and anyone else who accesses your property. We dedicate specific crews and equipment to your property; this results in high efficiency and reliability. Backup equipment and crews are available in the event of breakdowns and blizzard conditions. No matter how big the storm, your property will be cleared, de-iced, and safe for business in a timely manner.

Why Does Black Ice Need to Be Removed?

Chicago Black Ice Removal

First of all, it’s against Chicago’s Municipality Code to allow snow build up to remain stagnant. Section 10-8-180 of Chicago’s Municipal Code states that every “owner, lessee, tenant, occupant, or other person in charge of any building … abutting upon any public way or public place shall…  remove any snow and ice from any sidewalk …” Secondly, it just makes sense from a safety and aesthetics standpoint to have snow and black ice removed from your property. For businesses, black ice can be a nightmare. For malls, restaurants, gyms, and other businesses with high foot traffic, if there is an excess of snow blocking the entryway or black ice buildup, then access will be difficult for your customers. It goes without saying that this is a surefire way to impact business operations and revenues. Fortunately for business owners in Northern Chicago, Snow Pushers is here to assist in snow and black ice removal in Chicago from all types of areas.

What Is The Best Black Ice Removal Company In Chicago?

For over 5 years, Snow Pushers has been providing snow and ice removal to the residents of Chicago in an efficient, affordable, and timely manner. Our experience has led us to understand snow and ice at its very core and the best and most affordable ways to remove it. We keep our prices affordable and competitive to best serve the residents and businesses of Chicago. Want to learn more about our black ice and snow removal services in Chicago? Give us a call at (773) 299-9203 or contact us online to request a free snow and ice removal quote for your home or business. Choose the best Chicago Snow Removal service around when you go with Snow Pushers.

Snow Removal Sidewalk Safety Tips

When the winter months start rolling in, it can be one of the most burdensome things you can deal with. But more so, it can also be one of the most dangerous things you can deal with. Sidewalk snow can pose as a hindrance to your daily routine and even to your well-being. For this reason, it must be removed efficiently as well as safely, to ensure you’re able to go about with your day. But if you’re not really sure how to properly remove snow safely, then continue reading below. Snow Pushers are experts in providing Chicago residents the snow removal they need and know how to safely carry out snow removal without any issues at all.

Snow Removal Sidewalk Safety Tips

Wear The Proper Clothing

Snow is caused by cold temperatures. For this reason, you should always wear the proper clothing to ensure you don’t succumb to hypothermia. When removing snow, you should wear:

  • Breathable but thick layers of clothing (wear clothing made out of cotton and silk as opposed to wool)
  • Waterproof boots that have traction
  • Thick, warm socks
  • A head covering to prevent loss of body heat
  • Mittens or gloves in order to protect your hands and fingers

Wearing such clothing doesn’t only protect you from the cold, but also the safety hazards that snowfall can cause.

Stretch & Use The Proper Form

Sidewalk snow removal can be a very strenuous and back-breaking process. Moreover, because it takes place in the cold, it can also be a strain on your muscles. But when you stretch before removing the snow, you can actually warm up your body and prevent strains. Also, it helps that you perform the proper form when removing snow from your sidewalk.

As you’re shoveling snow, it’s important that you don’t lift. Instead of lifting, push the snow out of the way. And if you do have to lift, squat down with your legs spread apart. Have your back straight and your heels grounded as you lift. And when you do lift, don’t even throw the snow to the side or behind you. This last step is important because you’ll want to be mindful of where you throw your snow away.

Go Outside as Soon as You Can & Take Breaks

If you’re able to, go outside right after snowfall occurs. Fresh powdery snow is much easier to remove as opposed to wet, compact snow. If you notice a few inches of accumulation outside, that’s usually a good indicator that the snow is fresh and ready to be removed.

And as you’re performing proper sidewalk snow removal, make sure to work slow and take breaks. Shoveling snow is exercise and it can raise your heart rate and blood pressure. Make sure to take a break every now and then to drink water and prevent exhaustion.

Make Sure to De-Ice!

Sidewalk snow removal doesn’t just stop at the snow. You should also make sure that you de-ice the sidewalk as well.

When you’re de-icing your sidewalk, rely on the use of specialty salt made to remove ice. Spread it evenly over your sidewalk and just simply shovel the ice away.

Unable to Perform The Proper Sidewalk Snow Removal? Hire Snow Pushers Today!

When you need to carry out the proper sidewalk snow removal, don’t hesitate at all in hiring the professionals over at Snow Pushers. Snow Pushers has been providing exceptional snow removal services for many years, making them one of the most experienced and recognized snow removal service providers in all of Chicago. We feel confident that when you choose Snow Pushers for their quality services, you’ll be absolutely satisfied with their services. For any inquiries, you may call Snow Pushers at 773.299.9203 or visit our contact page.

Snow Removal Rates in Chicago

Snow can often be a heavy burden to deal with during the Winter season. In fact, it’s so burdensome in Chicago (like many other cities that are susceptible to snowfall) that the city created snow removal laws so that residents won’t have their daily routine obstructed as well as to prevent severe injuries. Which is why snow removal services are provided to patrons who are willing to pay. And if you’re one of those considering hiring a snow removal service, just know that most prices aren’t as expensive as they may appear to be. In truth, Chicago snow removal rates are actually cost-effective. And when you’re looking for a service with the most competitive rates, then look no further than Snow Pushers.

Continue reading below to learn about Snow Pushers’ snow removal rates in Chicago.

Snow Pushers Chicago Snow Removal Rates

Residential Snow Removal

As a resident in Chicago, one of the biggest inconveniences you’ll have to deal with is seasonal snowfall. No matter if you’re trying to get to work, take your children to school, or just simply perform your daily errands, snowfall can prove to be incredibly annoying for Chicago homeowners or residents. Fortunately for Chicago patrons, Snow Pushers will happily relieve the burden of dealing with seasonal snowfall.

You can enjoy staying warm indoors as we perform the hard work involved with snow removal. And with our residential snow removal rates starting at $99, we will happily offer snow removal for the following areas of your property:

  • Walkway To Curb
  • Gangways
  • Parking Spots
  • Front Sidewalks
  • Front Stairs
  • Rear Stairs
  • Garage Apron Or Lip
  • Personal Vehicles
  • … and more!

Commercial Snow Removal

As a business ourselves, we completely understand just how much snow can negatively affect you. Which is why we’ll be more than happy to provide our snow removal services for your commercial property, regardless if it’s a parking lot, storefront, or anything else.

We here at Snow Pushers have been assisting Chicago business owners and property managers in removing pesky snow build-up for years. In some cases, when snow buildup occurs, it’s presence obstructs customers’ access to your business. And for you, as an owner, that can make snowfall a serious issue that has to be dealt with accordingly. This is why Snow Powers will work tirelessly to ensure that you and any other business owner doesn’t experience any unnecessary downtime that can decrease revenue. And we’ll gladly offer our Chicago snow removal to you with rates starting at $129.

If you find yourself needing unparalleled snow removal services in Chicago and the surrounding areas, then look no further than Snow Pushers. We’re more than willing to provide our commercial snow removal at various commercial properties including:

  • Medical Offices
  • Dental Offices
  • Commercial Offices
  • Restaurants
  • Retail stores
  • Front Sidewalks
  • Walkway To Curb
  • Gangways
  • Parking Spots
  • … And much more!

Contact Snow Pushers Today For Their Chicago Snow Removal Services

When you’re ready to hire snow removal services at low, affordable rates, then look no further than Snow Pushers. We’ve been providing our quality services to numerous patrons in the Chicago area for many years. And because of this, we’re highly regarded by the city of Chicago for our work. When you choose us, we feel more than certain that you’ll be satisfied with our services as you’re added to our growing list of satisfied customers. For any inquiries, you may call us at 773.299.9203 or visit our contact page.

Snow Removal Responsibilities as a Chicago Landlord

Despite how simple the topic may sound, there’s a lot of ambiguity surrounding what exactly landlord snow removal responsibilities are in Chicago. And if you’re a Chicago landlord, you may have found yourself challenged in finding the right answers. But don’t worry. We here at Snow Pushers are well-versed in Chicago’s snow removal laws. We know exactly what’s required from landlords. And if you’re curious in knowing what your Chicago landlord snow removal responsibilities are, then continue reading below. We’ve collected a bit of information for you to browse through so you can make deliberate choices on how to properly remove snow from your grounds.

Landlord Snow Removal Responsibilities in Chicago FAQs

Who is Responsible For Snow Removal on Chicago Sidewalks?

If you happen to be a landlord or property manager, the short answer is you.

According to Section 10-8-180 of Chicago’s Municipal Code, every “owner, lessee, tenant, occupant, or other person in charge of any building . . . abutting upon any public way or public place shall . . . remove any snow and ice from any sidewalk . . .” Generally, this section states that the responsibility of Chicago snow removal typically falls under landlords and property managers, who have a legal duty to remove the snow and ice from public sidewalks that are adjacent to the property.

How Much Snow Must I Remove & Where do I Put it?

Those who are ultimately responsible for removing snow must clear a path of at least 5 feet in width (about as wide as a crosswalk). This is so that an adequate pathway is made for those in wheelchairs. And once you begin removing the snow, you should put the snow in the parkway between the sidewalk and the street. It’s advised that you don’t ever dump your snow in the street or the entrance to an alley. It’s also advised that you don’t use the snow to bury fire hydrants either.

How Much Time do I Have to Remove the Snow?

Landlord snow removal responsibilities in Chicago demand that you must clean snow that falls between 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. by no later than 10 p.m. on that same day. If snow were to fall on your property between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. it must be cleared 10 a.m. the next day.

When Must I Remove Snow?

Your snow removal responsibilities must be carried out every day of the week; Monday through Sunday.

What if Ice is Stuck to The Sidewalk Pavement Adjacent to My Property?

If this occurs, your landlord snow removal responsibilities in Chicago will require that you put down sand or other materials on the ice in order to mitigate slipping hazards and prevent ice accumulation. Once the weather permits it, you must clear the sidewalk immediately.

Can I be Penalized For Not Performing Required Chicago Landlord Snow Removal?

Yes. If you don’t perform your snow removal responsibilities in Chicago, you can receive a citation for failure to shovel. The fine you receive can range from $50 to $500 and it’s determined by an Administrative Hearings judge.

Fulfill Your Chicago Landlord Snow Removal Responsibilities By Hiring Snow Pushers Today!

If you find yourself challenged in performing the necessary snow removal, don’t hesitate at all in contacting Snow Pushers. Snow Pushers has been recognized as the premier snow removal service of choice for over 15 years. When you call to choose us, we feel more than certain that you’ll benefit from our services tremendously as you’re added to our growing list of satisfied customers. For any inquiries, you may call us at 773.299.9203 or visit our contact page.