Snow Blowing vs. Plowing: Which is Best for Your Property?
When the first big storm of the season hits, the question every homeowner and business owner faces is the same: how do we keep the driveway, sidewalks, or parking lot clear and safe? For years, plowing has been the default answer. But as more property owners in Webster and Fairport, NY experience tractor-powered snow blowing, they’re realizing there’s another option—one that may actually be better suited to their needs.
So which is best: snow blowing or plowing? Let’s break it down.
How Snow Plowing Works
Plowing is the most familiar method. A truck with a blade pushes snow into piles at the edge of the property.
Advantages of plowing:
Fast for large, open areas.
Widely available from many contractors.
Effective in lighter or moderate storms.
Drawbacks of plowing:
Leaves large snow piles that take up space and create sightline hazards.
Can damage landscaping and pavement edges.
Struggles in heavy snow, where piles keep building higher.
How Snow Blowing Works
Snow blowing uses tractor-mounted blowers that scoop snow and throw it well off the cleared area—sometimes up to 30 feet away. Instead of piling, the snow is dispersed evenly.
Advantages of blowing:
No piles left behind—more space for cars and cleaner driveways.
Protects lawns, trees, and hardscaping from damage.
Handles deep snowfalls more effectively.
Creates a “just cleared” look with smooth, wide-open surfaces.
Drawbacks of blowing:
Requires specialized equipment, so fewer companies offer it.
Can take slightly longer for very large commercial lots.
Which Is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your property and your priorities:
Residential driveways: Blowing prevents banks from narrowing the driveway and damaging landscaping. For homeowners in Webster with long, narrow drives, blowing ensures every inch stays usable.
Commercial parking lots: Blowing keeps parking spaces open and reduces liability from icy piles. Fairport businesses benefit from the added safety and full access for customers and employees.
Heavy snow regions: In communities like Webster and Fairport that deal with lake-effect snow, blowing consistently outperforms plowing when accumulations pile up.
At Northland Snow, we offer both methods, but we’ve invested heavily in tractor blowers because they provide our customers with the cleanest, safest, most reliable results.
Plowing is a good solution for quick snow removal, but blowing delivers a cleaner finish, protects your property, and helps you reclaim valuable space. Whether you’re in Webster, Fairport, or the surrounding area, Northland Snow has the equipment and expertise to keep your property clear all season long.
