Follow these tips to work smarter, not harder, as you free your property from winter’s slippery grip.

That foot of powder Mother Nature dumped on your front steps might be considered a seasonal delight, but its lure doesn’t endure. You’ll be lucky to get 12 hours of added curb appeal before that fresh snow turns to gray, sad slush. And so, it would behoove your home maintenance regimen to remove that frosty clutter before it becomes a nuisance — not to mention your driveway and footpaths into an icy catwalk.

Here’s how to clear the way and show that snow who’s boss.

Invest in an ergonomic shovel.

Not all snow shovels are created equal. The ergonomic shovel has your back – literally. Meticulously designed for maximum comfort, you’ll find its curved, steel handle assists the heavy lifting like a sort of shoveling sous chef. A smart, curved blade shoves snow out of the way with ease. And a generously large handle will fit your plushest, warmest waterproof gloves. To further make life easier, prime your shovel with cooking spray to easily slip heavy snow off its face. Pro-tip from a seasoned shoveler: don’t wait until the last flurry falls. Get ahead of the accumulation as it happens, making the job easier once the storm concludes. Just don’t forget to lift with your knees.

Save your future self with a tarp.

For areas of certain size, a simple tarp (or two, or more) can be the cheat code of a lifetime. If the weather app predicts more than a few flurries, consider proactively blanketing your stoop, patio, or driveway accordingly. Once the accumulation has stopped, just find a corner and pull. The trick is as impressive as whipping a cloth off the table, leaving the placemats unscathed. The still dry driveway, ignorant of any storm, will remain as clear as a spring day.

Splurge for the snowblower.

There are times when a shovel alone simply won’t suffice. To conquer the most dramatic seasonal remodels of your yard’s landscape, you’ll definitely want a power tool in your arsenal. Like winter’s version of a lawn mower, throwing white stuff to the side with power and efficiency, the modern snowblower is available in countless gas and electric versions suited for any budget. Some can throw snow up to 35 feet from where you don’t want it, a force to match Mother Nature herself. Be the envy of your neighbors as you effortlessly blast through drifts (but be prepared to answer their calls for backup).

Know a leaf blower isn’t just for autumn.

Revving up a full-on snowblower after a light peppering is like driving a Ferrari through the city at rush hour: inefficient and not much of a thrill. That’s why you shouldn’t let autumn’s right hand hibernate for winter. A leaf blower is a versatile instrument that can erase even a moderate layer of snowflakes from your porches, patios, walkways, driveways — even the cars parked on it. So keep yours at the forefront of your shed or garage.

Have a roof rake on the ready.

There’s an easy way to stop those sheets of snow from avalanching off your roof onto your walkways, HVAC equipment, or worse: you. It’s called a roof rake, and you should absolutely have one. With extensions reaching two feet, these ingenious devices let you scratch the snow removal itch with ease and security. A flexible polyester slide protects your roof from any scratches or damage, so don’t worry about scraping shingles off with the snow (but maybe have the snowblower waiting to contend with what falls down).

Don’t be afraid to wait it out.

Check the forecast. If things are warming up, and perhaps maybe you don’t have anywhere to go right away, sometimes it’s best to just wait and let a sunny day do the job for you. In the meantime, melt into your cloud couch, embrace hygge, and dream of warmer places. Who said procrastination can’t pay off? Your back will thank you later. Just, of course, be mindful if you’re expecting any deliveries.