Introduction

Snow removal contractors rely on a wide range of equipment, and the tools they choose determine how effectively they can service residential properties, stratas, commercial sites, and municipal routes. Whether you're comparing contractors or building a winter service operation, understanding this equipment is essential.

For a full breakdown of how we evaluate contractors across Canada, visit Snow Removal Expert — your national hub for comparing reliable, insured, GPS-tracked winter service providers.

Truck-Mounted Snow Plows

Best for:

• Commercial parking lots

• Roads and long drive lanes

• Large industrial properties

Advantages

✔ Fast and efficient✔ Effective for deep or heavy snow✔ Excellent for clearing wide areas

Limitations

✖ Too large for strata complexes✖ Not suited for narrow paths✖ Higher risk of curb damage

ATV / UTV Snow Plows

ATVs are one of the most versatile machines in the industry.

Why ATVs Are Essential

• Maneuverable in tight spaces

• Ideal for townhomes and multi-unit pathways

• Useful during storms and nighttime

• Compatible with GPS service-logging technology

Best For

• Strata pathways

• Small parking lots

• Apartment courtyards

• Back lanes or tight access areas

Sidewalk Snow Plows (Walk-Behind Machines)

Sidewalk machines are critical for pedestrian safety, especially in multi-unit settings.

Types

• Rotary broom (light snow)

• Two-stage snow blower (medium–deep snow)

• Compact sidewalk plow (heavy, wet snow)

Why They Matter

Sidewalks and entranceways are the #1 locations for slip-and-fall claims. Proper equipment dramatically reduces liability and injury risk.

Skid-Steers & Bobcats

Ideal For

• Heavy accumulation

• Snow piling and relocation

• Large commercial pads

• Multi-day cleanup after major storms

Common Attachments

• Snow pushers

• Back blades

• Buckets

These machines provide versatility no other equipment type can match.

Salters & De-Icers

Effective contractors don’t just remove snow—they prevent ice.

Types of Salting Equipment

• Tailgate salters

• Walk-behind spreaders

• Liquid brine sprayers

• Calcium chloride applicators

What Good Ice Management Includes

• Calibrated material application

• Documented logs

• Before/after photos

• Timed rechecks during refreeze conditions

Equipment Checklist for Multi-Unit Buildings

A contractor servicing stratas, condos, or apartments should have:

✔ An ATV plow✔ A sidewalk machine✔ Liquid + granular de-icer systems✔ Stair and entrance-specific hand tools✔ Backup equipment✔ GPS-tracked service logs

If a contractor lacks these essentials, they may struggle during storms or freeze–thaw cycles.

Conclusion

The right equipment determines whether a contractor can deliver safe, consistent winter service. Truck plows handle large spaces, ATVs manage tight pathways, sidewalk machines protect pedestrians, and salters prevent the most dangerous winter hazard: ice.

To compare vetted winter contractors across Canada and learn what equipment they use, visit Snow Removal Expert.