Maryland winters bring snow, ice, and cold temperatures that challenge commercial property managers. Winter grounds Maintenance differs significantly from other seasons, requiring snow removal, ice management, winter plant protection, and safety protocols. Properties receiving adequate winter maintenance remain professional and safe throughout winter months.
Planning winter grounds Maintenance before snow flies allows property managers to prepare equipment, contracts, and staff for winter challenges. Reactive approaches to winter weather create problems, safety issues, and customer dissatisfaction.
## Snow Removal Management
Snow removal services begin once snowfall reaches trigger depths specified in service contracts, typically two inches. Prompt removal prevents accumulation and maintains safety. Delays allow snow to compact and become difficult to remove.
Timing of snow removal affects safety and property operations. Some properties prefer nighttime removal to avoid business disruption. Others prefer daytime removal when staff can monitor the work. Many commercial properties require removal immediately to maintain access and safety.
Snow pushes onto hardscapes including parking areas, walkways, and building entrances. Contractors must push snow away from buildings and drains to avoid water damage when snow melts. Strategic snow storage areas prevent unnecessary re-moving or property damage.
Piling snow in parking areas reduces parking capacity during heavy snow seasons. Some properties identify dedicated snow storage areas to preserve parking or drive clear of sensitive landscape areas.
Removal of snow from roof areas prevents ice dam formation and roof damage from excessive weight. Some buildings with shallow roof slopes require snow removal after significant storms.
## Ice Management Strategies
Salt and chemical deicers melt ice on walkways and parking areas, preventing slips and falls. Most commercial properties use salt-based or magnesium-based products. Application rates and timing affect effectiveness and environmental impact.
Pre-application of salt before winter storms coats surfaces and prevents ice formation. This approach reduces required application quantities and salt impact.
Post-application of salt after snow removal melt surfaces and prevents refreezing.
Alternative deicers including calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and organic products like beet juice reduce environmental impact compared to sodium chloride. These products are more expensive but work effectively at lower temperatures.
Shovel-only approaches on small walkways or building entrances use no chemicals but require labor. Most commercial properties combine shoveling and deicing products for optimal results.
Physical removal of ice with ice melt tools clears ice without chemicals. This labor-intensive approach works well for small areas.
Sand and non-chemical traction products provide traction without melting ice. Sand is not environmentally harmful but does not melt ice and must be swept up in spring. Sand reduces slip risk on sidewalks even after salting.
## Winter Plant Protection
Newly planted trees and shrubs require protection during their first winter. Burlap wrapping protects against harsh winds and prevents salt spray damage. Wrapping is typically applied in November and removed in April.
Anti-desiccant sprays applied in fall protect evergreens against winter moisture loss. Evergreens continue losing moisture through leaves even when roots cannot absorb water from frozen soil. Anti-desiccant sprays create a protective coating reducing moisture loss.
Mulch insulation applied around plant bases protects roots from extreme cold. Three to four inches of mulch moderates soil temperature extremes.
Watering deciduous trees and shrubs in late fall before ground freezes provides water reserves. Winter desiccation on evergreens is prevented by adequate fall watering.
Young tree support prevents damage from heavy snow loads. Cabling or bracing supports trees with weak branch angles or multiple leaders that could snap under snow weight.
Road salt damage protection is critical for plants near roadsways or parking areas where salt is applied. Salt-tolerant species selections prevent damage. Physical barriers or salt spray screening protects sensitive plants.
Pruning should be minimal in winter. Dead branches are removed but live pruning is deferred to late winter or spring.
## Hardscape Maintenance
Sidewalk and parking area clearing prevents slips, falls, and liability issues. Cleared surfaces must be safe for pedestrian traffic.
Proper drainage prevents water from pooling and freezing. Winter maintenance includes checking drains and clearing debris preventing water from draining.
Surface sealing in fall prevents water penetration and freeze-thaw damage to concrete and asphalt. Water entering cracks freezes and expands, causing cracking and deterioration.
Repair of damage found during winter is often deferred until spring when weather permits. Temporary repairs may be necessary for safety.
De-icing damage to hardscapes is minimized through proper application rates and product selection. Excessive salt accelerates deterioration of concrete and asphalt.
## Winter Landscaping Aesthetics
Interest in winter comes from evergreen plants, ornamental grasses that persist standing, interesting bark textures, and berries on trees and shrubs that persist into winter.
Winter planters with evergreen elements and colorful branches provide seasonal interest and structure. Colorful twigs from red-twig dogwood, yellow-twig willow, or other plants provide color when most vegetation is dormant.
Decorative elements including evergreen garland, holiday lighting, or temporary plantings are sometimes added for seasonal interest. These elements are removed in January.
## Contractor Selection and Management
Reputable snow removal contractors have equipment, training, and experience managing commercial snow removal. Not all landscape contractors offer winter snow services. Specialized contractors focus on snow removal and ice management.
Contract terms should specify trigger depths for snow removal, response time, pricing structures, and liability terms. Snow removal is expensive and contractors need clear expectations about when to respond.
Pricing structures vary widely. Some contractors charge per event based on snowfall. Others charge seasonal flat rates. Hybrid approaches include seasonal fees with additional charges for storms exceeding expected amounts.
Insurance requirements ensure contractors carry adequate coverage for liability and equipment damage.
Communication during winter storms is essential. Property managers need updates on when work will occur and when it is complete. Emergency contact numbers ensure communication during early morning or evening storms.
## Planning for Winter
Irrigation system winterization before freezing temperatures prevents equipment damage. Draining lines or blowing out remaining water prevents freeze damage.
Equipment inspection before winter ensures equipment is ready for snow and ice management.
Staff training on proper salt application, ice dam prevention, and safety procedures ensures consistent quality.
Monitoring weather forecasts allows advance preparation for incoming storms.
Snow storage area preparation identifies where snow will pile and ensures environmental compliance.
## Winter Maintenance Value
While winter maintenance costs increase during snow season, proper maintenance protects property investments, prevents liability issues, and maintains professional appearance. Properties that are not properly maintained during winter often see customer complaints, reduced traffic, and liability from accidents.
If you manage commercial properties in Maryland and need winter grounds maintenance, contact Gras & Co. Our team provides professional snow removal, ice management, and winter plant protection services that keep your properties safe and professional throughout the winter season.
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