Winter weather can create serious safety, accessibility, and liability challenges for commercial properties. This FAQ guide answers the most common questions business owners have about commercial snow removal and ice management, and explains why partnering with a professional service like GLS Landscaping and Maintenance matters.
To prepare your property before winter weather hits, call GLS Landscaping and Maintenance at 336-643-2554 to discuss a customized snow and ice management plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Snow Removal
Managing snow and ice is about more than reacting to winter storms—it’s about planning ahead to protect people, property, and daily operations. The following frequently asked questions address common concerns business owners and property managers have when deciding how to handle winter weather and what to expect from professional commercial snow removal and ice management services.
Why is commercial snow removal important for businesses?
Commercial snow removal helps keep your property safe, accessible, and compliant during winter weather. Snow and ice can lead to:
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Blocked entrances and walkways
- Lost business due to poor accessibility
- Increased liability and insurance claims
Professional snow removal ensures your property is cleared quickly and consistently so employees, customers, and visitors can move safely.
Is snow removal just about plowing parking lots?
No. Commercial snow removal goes beyond plowing. A complete service plan includes:
- Parking lots and drive lanes
- Sidewalks and entrances
- Loading docks and high-traffic areas
- Ongoing monitoring during storms
GLS focuses on full-property coverage to reduce risk and downtime.
What is the difference between snow removal and ice management?
Although often grouped together, they serve different purposes:
- Snow Removal: The physical removal of snow using plows, blowers, and manual clearing.
- Ice Management: Preventing and treating ice buildup using materials like salt, liquid brine, or de-icers.
Both are essential for winter safety, especially during fluctuating temperatures.
What is pre-treatment and why does it matter?
Pre-treatment involves applying liquid brine or ice control materials before snowfall. This helps prevent snow and ice from bonding to pavement, making removal easier and more effective.
Benefits of pre-treatment include:
- Faster clearing after storms
- Reduced ice formation
- Less damage to concrete and landscaping
GLS monitors forecasts to apply pre-treatment at the right time.
When is post-treatment needed?
Post-treatment is applied after snow removal to address refreezing, compacted snow, or black ice. This step is critical for maintaining safe walking and driving surfaces after plowing is complete.
Do businesses really need both snow removal and ice management?
Yes. Snow removal alone does not eliminate ice hazards. Ice can form:
- Overnight after melting
- From foot and vehicle traffic
- During temperature drops
A combined approach ensures continuous safety throughout winter weather events.
How does professional snow removal reduce liability?
Slip-and-fall incidents are one of the most common winter liability risks. Hiring a professional service:
- Ensures timely response during storms
- Provides consistent documentation and service tracking
- Demonstrates proactive property management
This can help protect your business in the event of an incident.
What types of businesses benefit most from commercial snow services?
Any commercial property with public access benefits, including:
- Office parks
- Retail centers
- Medical facilities
- Industrial and warehouse properties
- Apartment complexes
- HOAs and multi-family communities
GLS customizes snow and ice plans based on property size, usage, and risk areas.
How does GLS Landscaping and Maintenance handle winter weather events?
GLS Landscaping and Maintenance is a full-service commercial property maintenance company serving the Piedmont Triad with year-round solutions. In addition to snow removal and ice management, GLS provides landscaping, grounds maintenance, irrigation, and commercial site services, allowing clients to work with one trusted provider across all seasons.
For winter weather, GLS offers:
- 24/7 storm monitoring and rapid response
- Pre-storm brine applications
- Snow plowing and clearing for parking lots and drive lanes
- Sidewalk, entrance, and high-traffic area treatments
- Post-storm ice management to prevent refreezing
With experienced crews, professional equipment, and proactive planning, GLS helps commercial properties remain safe, accessible, and operational throughout winter storms.
Be Prepared Before the First Snowfall
Understanding the difference between snow removal and ice management—and why both matter—helps business owners make smarter winter maintenance decisions. With proactive planning and professional service, winter weather doesn’t have to disrupt your operations.
To protect your property, reduce liability, and stay open during winter weather, contact GLS Landscaping and Maintenance today at 336-643-2554 to create a snow removal and ice management plan tailored to your commercial property.