It’s probably safe to say that many of us have love-hate relationships with winter. Snow angels, hot chocolate, unexpected days off of school with the kids—the cold season has plenty of perks. On the flip side, the beauty of winter snowfall comes with increased safety risks.
Snow and ice accumulation create hazardous driving conditions, contributing to 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes annually. Poor visibility during snowstorms can also lead to costly damage to driveways, landscaping, and vehicles.
Fortunately, two simple pieces of winter safety equipment can make tackling hazards much easier: snow stakes and marking tape.
What Are Snow Stakes?
Snow stakes are critical pieces of winter safety and snow removal equipment. These durable markers are often made of fiberglass and are highly reflective. They catch the smallest bits of light to shine bright and guide drivers. Snow stakes are primarily used to mark boundaries, like driveways, walkways, and landscaping, to help facilitate safe and efficient snow removal and driving when piles of snow blur these lines.
Whether you’re using snow stakes for driveways to guide snowplows or snow stakes for landscaping protection to prevent accidental damage, they are an effective solution to winter’s visibility challenges. Reflective snow stakes for safety can be seen in harsh weather and low light. They make navigating winter conditions easier.
How to Use Snow Stakes Effectively
- Identify Key Areas to Mark: When preparing for winter storms, evaluate your property and pinpoint the edges of driveways, walkways, and any landscaping features you want to protect.
- Space the Stakes Properly: Install snow stakes every five to ten feet along these areas.
- Install Before the Ground Freezes: Push the stakes firmly into the ground while it’s still soft. Blackburn’s snow stakes have pencil points that allow you to use a rubber mallet to drive them into the ground.
What Is Marking Tape?
Marking tape is another one of our snow removal supplies for professionals and homeowners. Like snow stakes, they are used to enhance safety and visibility during winter weather. Flagging tape is a better option than snow stakes for quickly marking irregular areas or places where driving stakes isn’t practical, like delicate landscaping or rocky terrain.
Reflective marking tape catches and reflects light. This makes it easy to identify desired areas in snowy or low-light conditions. This flagging tape is an effective way to prevent accidents and protect your property during snow removal efforts.
By using marking tape for snow removal, you can quickly highlight driveways, walkways, and hidden obstacles like landscaping features or curbs. Blackburn’s tundra tape is fluorescent and heavy-duty, made to withstand the cold without cracking or fading.
Winter Preparation Tips: Using Marking Tape Effectively
- Identify Areas That Need Visibility: Pinpoint key areas like driveways, pathways, or hazards that snow might obscure.
- Ensure the Surface Is Clean and Dry Before Application: For adhesive marking tape, clean and dry surfaces are essential for a secure hold.
- Remove the Tape Once Conditions Improve: Marking tape is temporary by design, so take it down once the snow melts or conditions become safer to avoid unnecessary confusion or clutter.
Blackburn’s Winter Prep Pack
Blackburn’s snow stakes and marking tape are a powerful pair of winter marking supplies. These durable snow removal markers are trusted to withstand harsh weather conditions and make processes more secure and efficient.
Provide clear boundaries for driveways and landscaping, mark off hazards, and improve visibility for drivers and snow plows—especially at night and during heavy storms. Stock up on Blackburn’s winter prep pack today and enjoy the fun parts of winter with less worry!
FAQs
How tall should snow stakes be for effective visibility?
Driveway markers for winter should typically be around four feet (48 inches) tall. This height ensures they stand above the snow level. Taller stakes may be necessary for areas with heavier snowfall.
When is the best time to install snow stakes?
The best time to install snow stakes is before the ground is frozen and your area experiences heavy snowfall. The best snow stakes for snow plowing will have pencil points that allow you to use a rubber mallet to drive them into the ground.
Can snow stakes be reused next winter?
Yes, snow stakes can typically be reused next winter as long as they are in good condition. Made from fiberglass, they are built to withstand harsh weather conditions. Just be sure to inspect them for any damage or wear before storing them away and reusing them.
Can marking tape handle extreme cold and heavy snowfall?
Yes, Blackburn’s tundra marking tape is designed to withstand extreme cold and snow conditions without fading or cracking.
How long does the marking tape adhesive last in extreme cold?
Even the best marking tape for icy conditions won’t last forever. In extremely cold temperatures, some adhesives might become less tacky over time, especially if the tape is exposed to moisture or makes contact with snowplows. It’s a good idea to check the tape periodically and replace it if needed.
What are some creative uses for marking tape in winter?
Because of its flexibility, marking tape is one of those snow removal marking tools that can be creatively used in the winter. Highlight driveway edges, protect landscaping, and mark hidden obstacles like rocks or low branches. It’s also great for marking icy paths and stairs to prevent slips.
