Review of plastic shovels for snow removal: advantages and disadvantages, prices, customer reviews

Owners of private houses, management organizations, shops and companies face the problem of snow removal every winter.

The more precipitation falls during the cold season, the greater the workload on staff.

To make the work of clearing the area easier, you can get a plastic snow shovel.

Read the article about the advantages and disadvantages of this tool, how to use it correctly and what to look for when purchasing.

Pros and cons of plastic snow removal equipment

Plastic shovels have a number of advantages, including:

1. Availability. Such products are cheaper than their metal or titanium counterparts.
2. Ease of use. Using the equipment, it is easy to remove large volumes of snow masses.
3. Corrosion resistance. Plastic does not rust, it is not afraid of moisture, salt, or chemical agents.
4. Durability. Plastic products are not susceptible to insect attacks; the service life of a quality product can reach 25 years.
5. Easy to care for. The tool will not have to be treated with additional protective agents. It is enough to shake off the adhered snow from it and put it in the room in which the equipment is located.
6. Ease of storage. There is no need to create special storage conditions.
7. Light weight. Plastic tools are convenient to work with. The shovel is lightweight, which is important when clearing snow.
8. Gentle cleaning. When working with a plastic shovel, it is impossible to damage sidewalks, curbs, and tiles.
9. Snow doesn't stick to plastic. This allows you to finish cleaning in the shortest possible time.

Flaws:

1. The tool cannot be repaired. While a metal or wooden handle can be restored, a plastic product will have to be disposed of.
2. Fragility. The thinner the plastic, the higher the risk of breaking the bucket.
3. Inability to clean icy areas. The tool is not designed to work with thick snow crust.
4. High risk of breakdown in cold weather. To prevent this from happening, you should not choose a product made of polyurethane, since this material is characterized by increased fragility.

How to choose?

To choose a high-quality plastic shovel, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Plastic quality. It must be durable and elastic.
2. The presence of a metal edge on the bucket. It acts as additional protection, preventing premature tool failure.
3. Bucket size. The larger it is, the faster it will be possible to remove snow. However, lifting significant weight increases the load on your back. It is also necessary to take into account the terrain features of the territory. You won't be able to remove snow from narrow paths with a large shovel. If possible, you should get tools of different sizes.
4. Presence of stiffeners. They increase the strength of the bucket, preventing it from bending and breaking.
5. Handle shape. To make it more convenient to hold the shovel, you should buy a handle that is equipped with a handle in the shape of the letter D. The palm will not slip, and it will be easier to lift the bucket loaded with snow.
6. Cutting height. This parameter is directly related to human height.If different people will work with the equipment, it is better to opt for a telescopic handle.
7. Color. One of the advantages of plastic shovels is the variety of colors.
8. Shovel size. It depends on the purpose of using the tool. If a motorist needs it, then you can get by with a small folding model. Removing snow from your yard will require a larger tool.

How to use?

Features of use plastic shovel for snow removal:

• lubricate the metal rim on the bucket with a paraffin candle - this will help prevent snow from sticking;
• take the handle of the handle with one hand, and clasp it closer to the center with the other;
• immerse the bucket in the snowdrift about 10 cm from its top;
• They scoop up the snow and throw it aside.

When faced with ice, it is first broken up with a crowbar or other suitable tool. A shovel is not used for this purpose. Large snowdrifts are removed in several stages so as not to overload your back and damage your equipment.

Where and for how much to buy?

You can purchase a shovel in retail stores. Tools are sold in construction shopping centers, as well as in departments with garden and dacha equipment. You can also make your purchase online.

Top 3 best plastic models

The most popular plastic shovels for snow removal:

Stels 61586

Bucket size: 37x28 cm, length: 89 cm. The ladle is made of polypropylene, and the handle is a combination of aluminum and plastic. For comfortable work, the product is equipped with a D-shaped handle. The total length of the tool is 89 cm, weight is 0.6 kg. Price – 300 rubles.

Finland Orange 1731

Bucket size: 38.5x55 cm, length: 151 cm. The working surface has a rounded shape and sides, which allows you not to spill snow during cleaning. The end is protected by a metal strip and has stiffening ribs. The bucket is made of plastic, and the handle is a combination of wood and plastic. Product weight – 1.7 kg. Price – 1400 rubles.

Berchouse No. 2

Bucket size: 40.5x46 cm. The working surface is rounded, with stiffening ribs. There is additional protection in the form of a metal strip. The handle is a combination of plastic and aluminum. A practical and inexpensive product for every day. Price – 750 rubles.

Alternatives

As an alternative to a plastic product speakers:

• aluminum models;
• wooden tools;
• polycarbonate shovels;
• hardware;
• electroshovels;
• shovels on wheels;
• plywood models.

Helpful information

Tips for selection and operation plastic shovels for snow removal:

1. To test the plastic for frost resistance, it needs to be slightly bent at room temperature. High-quality material is elastic and slightly reminiscent of rubber, that is, after bending it easily returns to its previous shape, and no cracks form in the tested area.
2. High-quality plastic does not have a pungent odor. The product may have a specific aroma, but it should not be pronounced.
3. The product must be stored in a dry place. Before sending it to the garage or utility room, it is cleaned of snow and dirt. It is better to avoid constant temperature changes.

Conclusion

A plastic shovel is a practical tool for removing snow. It is light, roomy, and easy to use. If you choose, store and use the product wisely, it will last about 5-10 seasons.