Shoveling snow is a challenge you must face if you reside in freezing climates.
Well, just like it is crucial to master shoveling techniques, it is essential to know the right timing.
So, Is It Better to Shovel Snow in The Morning or Evening?
Morning is the right time to shovel snow. Less snow falls in the morning since the sun reduces its intensity. And you need an open working environment as the day kicks off.
Five Reasons to Shovel Snow in The Morning and Not in The Evening
1. There Is Less Snow Fall in The Morning
Even though snowfall occurs over the night at high intensity, the morning is an ideal time to shovel it. It is because there are fewer falls at this time.
The sun’s temperatures gradually reduces the fall.
2. Snow Is Still Frozen in The Morning
Since snow remains frozen in the morning, it is ideal for shoveling it away.
If you wait until evening, there is every chance it will melt during the day because of the apparent increase in temperature.
Melt water from snow can make your compound slippery.
Water from snow can also compromise the foundations of your structures. It will help if you do it in the morning before it starts melting.
3. To Remove Obstacles in The Way
You will have a pretty busy day and do not want any distractions from obstacles. It is for this reason that you should shovel snow in the morning.
Ideally, it is good to start with your pavements, then proceed to your driveways and other busy areas around the home.
The goal is to ensure no stumbling distractions in your way—more on shoveling tips later.
4. You’re Probably Too Tired to Do It in The Evening
The evening is not a good time to shovel snow because, at this time, you are probably tired of the day’s activities.
Your muscles are tired now, and you may not even want to bother yourself with shoveling snow. After a busy day, you need to rest as you brace for the day ahead of you.
5. It Gets Your Day Started
Shoveling snow in the morning is a pretty good way to set your day’s activities in a smooth flow.
Heaps of snow all over the place are not an excellent sight to motivate you. We, therefore, recommend that you shovel snow first thing in the morning.
Apart from flexing your muscles and preparing you for the big day ahead of you, it motivates you in essence.
Four Things to Consider Before Shoveling Snow
Even though shoveling snow in the morning is a good idea, there are several things you need to consider before executing the task.
Here are four factors you should keep in mind before embarking on shoveling snow:
1. Weather
Your health is a priority. So, the weather is a valid concern when it comes to timing.
For instance, if there are intense storms in your region, you will have to carry out more shoveling sessions.
It will also affect the shoveling tools you need for the specific task.
It is only wise to avoid shoveling until the storm has receded. It is especially true if you have a vast area to cover.
Shoveling during a storm can pose serious health issues.
2. Shoveling Tools at Hand
As mentioned, during adverse snowfall and storms, you may have to upscale your shoveling tools, or you will have to shovel the entire day.
A snow blower will help you a lot during a snowstorm.
3. The Weight of Snow
When deciding when to shovel snow, the weight of the snow is a principal consideration to keep in mind.
If you realize, for instance, that the intensity of snowfall is extreme, it is only prudent to stop shoveling and wait until it subsides.
Again, there is a limit to how much you can wait for the snow to subside. Waiting too long presents its own set of obstacles.
Firstly, wet snow is heavy and will strain you a lot. Too much waiting can also create an overwhelming situation around your home.
4. Timing
Even though we recommend shoveling snow in the morning, you must time well.
Of course, there are loads of other duties to do in the morning.
That is why you need to think beyond your control. Some responsibilities, such as getting kids to school or rushing for work, can dictate when to shovel snow.
Some municipalities require people to shovel snow in the walkways for essential services such as right-of-the-way or deliveries.
Four Tips for Safe Shoveling
1. Dress Properly for The Job
You are facing the force of nature during shoveling.
You can expose yourself to severe ailments if you are not careful with your dressing.
You must put on protective gear. There are unique clothes made for shoveling. They allow you to twist your arms and body while helping you to adjust your body temperature.
For boots, ice cleats will help secure your feet from freezing temperatures.
Ice cleats ensure a firm grip on the snow and prevent potential slips. Just be sure to take them off before you return to the house since they can scrap your floors.
2. Do Not Shovel During Adverse Weather
Do not attempt to shovel during extreme weather conditions like ferocious storms.
You risk getting respiratory complications and other related ailments like heart disease.
It would only be prudent to leave the job alone and wait until conditions are favorable for shoveling.
3. In Case of Any Health Concerns, Consult A Doctor
Before starting any new and rigorous exercise like shoveling snow, it is wise to seek guidance from a physician.
The doctor will evaluate your health status and advise you on the way forward. Older people are often victims of ailments related to snow shoveling.
Remember, snow shoveling is a vigorous exercise that demands a lot of energy. Straining can pose disastrous ramifications on your health altogether.
4. Use Safe and Efficient Shoveling Tools
Heavier snow requires the use of more capable and heavy-duty shoveling tools.
Efficient shoveling tools like snow blowers minimize the strain on your muscles and get the job done fast and effectively.
Final Words
Snow shoveling requires appropriate timing and proper preparations.
We recommend shoveling in the morning because there is less snowfall.
As we discussed, it is also ideal because it starts your day in several ways. The goal is to keep your compound obstacle-free.
Be prepared every step of the way. Be it through proper timing or putting on the required gear.