Rhode Island averages about 35 inches of snow per year, with some winters well above that. Whether you handle your own snow removal or hire it out, here are some practical tips that every RI homeowner should know.
Know Your Trigger Depth
Most professional snow plowing services, including ours, use a "trigger depth" — the amount of snowfall that activates service. For residential plowing in Rhode Island, this is typically 2-3 inches.
If you're doing it yourself, don't wait for the storm to end to start clearing. For big storms, it's better to plow partway through and again after the storm ends.
Protect Your Driveway
Rhode Island driveways take a beating in winter. Here's how to minimize damage:
- Mark your driveway edges with reflective snow stakes before the season starts. This helps plow operators avoid hitting your lawn, mailbox, or landscaping.
- Fix cracks before winter. Water gets into cracks, freezes, and expands — turning small cracks into big problems by spring.
- Use the right de-icer. Rock salt (sodium chloride) is cheap but can damage concrete and kill grass along driveway edges. Calcium chloride is gentler and works at lower temperatures — important for Rhode Island's deep cold snaps.
Don't Forget the Walkways
A clear driveway means nothing if you can't get from your car to the door safely. Shoveling walkways, steps, and entryways is just as important — and it's a liability issue too.
In Rhode Island, property owners can be held responsible for slip-and-fall injuries on their property. Keeping walkways clear and treated isn't just courteous, it's smart.
When to Plow vs. Shovel
- Driveways and parking areas: Plow
- Walkways, steps, and tight spaces: Shovel
- Mailbox access: Shovel (your mail carrier will thank you)
- Around the house foundation: Keep snow pushed away to prevent basement water issues during thaws
Timing Matters
Rhode Island's nor'easters can drop a foot of snow overnight. The key to staying ahead is having a plan — and a reliable service — before the storm hits.
If you're hiring a snow removal service, set it up in the fall before the rush. Waiting until the first storm means you might end up on a waiting list.
Year-Round Makes It Easy
One of the biggest advantages of using Four Seasons Lawn Care is that we already know your property from mowing it all summer. We know where your driveway edges are, where the landscaping is, and how to plow without tearing up your yard.
Need reliable snow plowing in Rhode Island? Call or text (401) 767-0067 for seasonal or per-storm plowing.
