Snow Removal Calculator
Estimate snow removal time and cost for your driveway or walkway. Compare shoveling, snow blower, and plow service. Calculate de-icer (salt) needed and calorie burn.
sq ft
in
Estimated Time
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Estimated Cost —
Snow Volume (cu ft) —
Extended More scenarios, charts & detailed breakdown ▾
sq ft
in
lbs
Estimated Time
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Calories Burned (shoveling) —
Fuel/Electricity Cost —
Professional Full parameters & maximum detail ▾
sq ft
in
lbs
$
Snow Properties
Snow Weight (lbs) —
DIY Analysis
Calories Burned (shoveling) —
Shovel vs Electric Blower Time —
Service Cost
Season Service Cost (per-push) —
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your Area to Clear in square feet (length × width of driveway).
- Enter the Snow Depth in inches.
- Select your Removal Method to see estimated time and cost.
- Use the Salt/De-icer tab to calculate how much product you need.
- The Professional tab adds snow weight, calorie burn, equipment comparison, and seasonal service cost.
Formula
Snow Volume = Area × (Depth ÷ 12) | Snow Weight = Volume × Density (7–20 lbs/ft³)
Example
500 sq ft driveway, 6 in of average snow → Volume = 250 cu ft, Snow weight ≈ 3,000 lbs. Shoveling time ≈ 45 min. Salt needed ≈ 12.5 lbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- A typical 2-car driveway (~400 sq ft) with 4 inches of light snow takes about 20–30 minutes to shovel. Wet, heavy snow takes significantly longer — roughly 2× as long.
- Per-push driveway clearing typically costs $25–75 for a standard driveway. Seasonal contracts range from $200–600 depending on region and expected snowfall. Contracts save money after about 8–10 events.
- For a standard 2-car driveway (~500 sq ft), you need about 12–15 lbs of rock salt. The general guideline is 2–4 lbs per 100 sq ft. More is not better — over-salting damages concrete and plants.
- Shoveling snow burns about 400–600 calories per hour depending on your weight, snow weight, and intensity. Heavy, wet snow can burn up to 700+ calories per hour — making it a significant workout.
- Rock salt works to +15°F and is cheapest. Calcium chloride works to −25°F and melts ice faster but costs more. Magnesium chloride works to +5°F, is gentler on surfaces and plants, and is a good middle ground.