Cleaning Up Your Yard After a Winter Storm

Winter can beautify landscapes with snow and ice, but it can also damage them. From whipping winds to heavy snow and layers of ice, your trees and other plants are in danger. Broken branches are not only a plant healthcare concern, but it’s also a property hazard for surrounding structures and public paths. While you can help protect your plants with special guards and covers, you may still have some cleaning up to do after a winter storm blows through your yard. Here are some tips to help.

Prioritize safety. Before you start to assess any damage, be aware of downed power lines in the area. Stay away until this hazard has been cleared. Also look for ice patches on the ground and sharp icicles above and use caution moving through these areas.
Use proper techniques. It’s a good idea to stretch before tackling any snow removal. Make sure you have the right shovel that allows you to push the snow instead of lifting it. Take frequent breaks to help avoid injury.
Focus on trouble spots. Remove heavy snow from delicate areas like lightweight roofs. Clear gutters to help ensure proper drainage. Clear walkways in high traffic areas.
Inspect trees. Healthy plants can withstand some weighted snow, but delicate branches may bend and break under heavy snow and ice. Don’t try to break ice off branches. Instead, wait until it’s thawed and prune any broken limbs. If there’s extensive damage to large trees, call a professional tree care company for help.
Look for damage. Search the interior and exterior of your home for signs of leaks, frozen pipes, and foundation cracks. Call a professional to assess the area.
Yard cleanup. Remove fallen branches, leaf piles, and pruned plant debris.

For large piles of debris, check your local waste management company for when they pick up yard waste. Some companies stop providing this service in the winter months. However, if you need a company to help clear larger limbs, heavy brush, and pruned clippings from your yard, call JDog Junk Removal & Hauling. We can also remove any items damaged from fallen limbs and winter’s wrath.