9 Best Hand-Powered Snow Removal Tools

The Best Snow Broom

Snow Joe Snow Broom

One of the best snow removal tools isn’t powered by batteries or cords. Snow doesn’t stand a chance against a snow broom, which will make quick work of snow that has piled up on your car this winter. The Snow Broom from Snow Joe extends from 33 to 52 inches to get to all those hard-to-reach spots with minimal strain.

Pros

• Large, 19-inch foam head
• Under two pounds
• Telescoping pole

Cons

• Might not be suitable for especially hard ice

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The Best Sleigh Shovel

Garant Poly Snow Sled

A sleigh shovel like this shovel from Garant is the perfect snow removal tool to take care of heavy snowfall. The large scoop lets you push maximum amounts of snow to the side and clear a path quicker than traditional snow shovels. Each purchase comes with six shovels, so there are plenty of backups in case one becomes marred from ice.

Pros

• Long 42-inch handle
• Galvanized steel strip on blade
• Sturdy poly construction

Cons

• Not meant to toss snow like a shovel

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The Best Ice Chopper

Bully Tools Ice Scraper

When the ice builds up on your driveway or walkway, reach for an ice chopper or sidewalk scraper. Look for a model with all-steel construction, such as this ice chopper from Bully Tools, to provide the weight needed to get the job done.

Pros

• Sturdy steel construction
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Chopper may bend with rough use

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The Best Roof Rake

Avalanche Snow Removal System

Prevent ice dams and help reduce the heavy load of snow on your roof with a roof rake. Look for a model that you can put together easily and one that is made of plastic, not metal, since plastic is lighter and easier to control. The Avalanche Snow Removal System helps removes snow and ice from your roof with very little effort.

Pros

• Lightweight at only 10 pounds
• Simple, snap-together assembly
• Wheels protect roof from scrapes

Cons

• Best for roofs with a good-sized pitch

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The Best Snow Shovel

True Temper Snow Shovel

If your snow blower is out of commission and you have to shovel snow, make it easier on your back with an ergonomic shovel. This 18-inch Poly Combo Shovel from True Temper is a good option since it has an oversized D-grip so even with thick gloves it will be easy to handle. It also has a nylon strip on the blade that will help prevent damaging your deck.

Pros

• Can be used as a pusher and shovel
• Footstep
• Reversible

Cons

• May need to replace blade screws occasionally

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The Best Push Broom

Libman Push Broom

For light, fluffy snow, reach for a push broom. Brooms are a good snow removal tool for when you have less than four inches of snow and are the best choice for decks that can be damaged by some shovels. This Libman version is inexpensive and offers a steel handle for longevity.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Firm and flexible fibers
• Made from 80% consumer-recycled plastic

Cons

• Won’t stand up to heavy snow

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The Best Windshield Scraper

Snow MOOVer

With an extended arm that reaches up to 55 inches, the Snow MOOVer from Birdrock Home is a great snow removal tool for those with vans, SUVs and trucks as the length will help you get to those hard-to-reach spots. The ice scraper can be removed and features “jaws” that help break up the ice.

Pros

• Extendable
• Scratch-free foam and bristles
• Removable ice scraper

Cons

• Large size not ideal for tight areas

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The Best Folding Shovel

Gerber Gear Folding Snow Shovel

A folding shovel is a great option for those who spend a lot of time on the roads during the winter months, as the shovel can help you dig out your tires if you become stuck in a ditch. Look for a lightweight model like this Gerber Gear one that is easy to fold and unfold. A spade-style shovel can also be used to break up ice on your front walkway.

Pros

• Push button folding mechanism
• Hammer on base
• Nylon sheath included

Cons

• Not meant for breaking ice

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The Best Brushless Snow Shovel

Greenworks Cordless Brushless Snow Shovel

Perhaps the next best thing to a snow blower, the Cordless Brushless Snow Shovel from Greenworks has a 45-minute run time on a fully charged battery. The controlled brushless motor will help you quickly clear your driveway and sidewalks, leaving a 12-inch cleared path.

Pros

• 12-inch clearing width
• Cordless operation
• Works in several inches of snow

Cons

• A bit heavy at 15 pounds

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What to Consider When Buying Snow Removal Tools

While some tools like ice breakers and shovels are pretty straightforward, some—especially those that affect roofs—require a little extra know-how before using. According to Williams, here’s what to consider when before using snow removal tools for the roof:

• Stay as close to the ground as possible. When shoveling snow, you’ll want to stay as close to the ground as possible. Climbing to the top of a roof or a ladder to remove snow might result in perilous slips and falls from a great height. To keep safe, stand on the ground and pull the snow down using a tool like a roof rake. Stand to the side of the roof on the ground while using the necessary tools to avoid pulling heavy, wet snow drifts on top of oneself. Keep an eye out for falling icicles as well.
• Enlist the assistance of others. When it comes to shoveling snow off your flat or sloped roof, it’s always a good idea to enlist the assistance of a friend or family member. A second person can provide additional assistance and ensure safety during the snow removal operation.
• Remove all obstructions in your path. Remove any debris, branches, or other anything from the roof that could make removing snow more difficult or represent a safety threat. Pay special care to removing ice buildup, since this can create impediments and make the process more difficult.

At Family Handyman, we’re experts in snow removal—especially those of us in chilly states. We combed through all the best snow removal tools to find the right pick for every sidewalk and dusted-on car.

Why You Should Trust Us

Emily Way is an Associate Shopping Editor for Family Handyman with experience researching products and recommending the best designs to consumers. She researched and updated this piece. Way consulted Jack Williams, the founder of Handyman Reviewed and a repair and maintenance specialist.

Jack Williams has been in the repair and maintenance industry for over 30 years and has spent more than a decade running his own professional plumbing company. When he’s not busy fixing things, he likes to hop on his bike and explore trails.

How We Found the Best Snow Removal Tools

To find the best snow removal tools, we first looked at all the different ways to clear snow without the use of electric or gas snow removal tools. Then, we zeroed in on top-selling products, searching through specs and cost to find products that fit our readers’ needs. After that, we combed through real user reviews, comparing performance against other tools in the same category to ensure that each pick lives up to our rigid standards.

FAQ

When should you hire professional snow removal?

“The DIY snow removal option gives you control and flexibility when it comes to removing snow from your home,” says Williams. “You can choose when to shovel, plow, or blow snow.”

“It also necessitates more effort and dedication on the part of the individual. You must check the weather forecast, schedule the snow removal and be prepared to operate in cold and difficult conditions. Professional snow removal, on the other hand, provides greater convenience and peace of mind.”