Cleveland Snowplowing Articles and Tips
Is the Snow Removal Company you Picked, Right for You?
H&M Snow Pros, Cleveland
10/11/2024
Choosing the right snow removal company for your business in Northeast Ohio involves several important considerations.
First, check for local companies with a solid reputation and positive customer reviews. Look for companies that offer a range of services, such as plowing, salting, and sidewalk clearing, to ensure all your needs are met.
Next, inquire about their experience and reliability, especially during severe winter weather, and ask for references from similar businesses. Ensure they have proper licensing, insurance, and equipment to handle your property size.
Finally, discuss pricing structures and contracts to find a plan that fits your budget while ensuring timely and efficient service. Establishing clear communication and understanding service guarantees will also help foster a positive working relationship.
If you still need to find the "right" fit for your business, give us a call today!
Why Hiring a Snow Removal Company is
Essential for Northeast Ohio Winters
H&M Snow Pros, Cleveland
10/7/2024
Fall has arrived in the Greater Cleveland Area and the leaves have just started falling - but now is the time to start planning for winter and snow removal. Hiring a snow removal company in Northeast Ohio is crucial for ensuring safety and convenience during the winter months. With heavy snowfall common in the Cleveland area, professional services can efficiently clear driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots, reducing the risk of slips and falls. This not only protects individuals but also minimizes liability for homeowners and businesses. Moreover, snow companies are equipped with specialized tools and machinery that can handle large volumes of snow much more effectively than manual shoveling. They also have the expertise to manage ice accumulation, which can be particularly hazardous. By enlisting a snow removal service, residents can save time and avoid the physical strain of shoveling, allowing them to focus on other winter activities. Ultimately, investing in professional snow removal ensures a safer and more accessible environment throughout the snowy season.
H&M Snow Pros is a reputable and reliable Snow Removal company in Northeast Ohio. Routes in the Cleveland area fill up fast so call us today for a quote.
35 Years + Still Pushing Forward
People, technology continue driving H&M Landscaping, Snow Pros brand ahead
Story & Photos By Scott Esterly - Properties | November 2023 | Cleveland Ohio
Mark Mazzurco, president and owner of H&M Landscaping and H&M Snow Pros, was cutting
lawns in his own Cleveland neighborhood in the late 1980s. When he started, he wasn't even old enough
to drive as he went from yard to yard.
"Once I was able to drive, it expanded
from there," says Mazzurco. "I was supposed
to attend John Carroll University
on a bunch of grants, but I ended up
choosing to run the business because
I enjoyed it so much."
Now, with more than 200 employees
at the peak of summertime,
H&M Landscaping is entering its
35th year. Currently, H&M maintains
two physical locations in Northeast Ohio- one
on Kinsman Road in Newbury
Township and the other on Acorn
Drive in Oakwood Village.
The company grew at a steady
pace but in the early 1990s business
really began to take off.
"It was around 1992 that I brought
both of my brothers into the company as
partners," Mazzurco says. "We were growing
leaps and bounds at that time. You
know, you always kind of gravitate back
towards family. At that point, we probably
only had 20 or 25 employees and just
one location. That's when I finally figured
out: I'm investing in people. We don't just
sell a service, we sell relationships."
H&M Landscaping prides itself on
being a design, build and maintain service
provider for its customers in Cleveland. About
90% of its customer base on the landscaping
side is commercial and 10%
is residential. The common thread
amongst both commercial and residential
is that H&M Landscaping's work
is primarily high-end detail and
design work.
The combined service territory of
H&M Landscaping and H&M Snow
Pros covers a large swath of Northeast
Ohio. "We go all the way out to
Elyria on the west side. We go out to
Conneaut on the east side, and we'll
go down the Medina for snow and
ice," says Mazzurco.
H&M has also done some landscaping
work for customers in West
Virginia, Kentucky and Chautauqua,
New York.
Adding snow to the mix Mazzurco added snow removal to his list of service offerings around 2000. Originally, safeguarding his employees was the catalyst. He wanted to ensure that his summertime employees had work in the landscaping off-season. "I started the snow removal and ice management business to take care of my guys. I was just trying to make sure that they had money coming in and could feed their families," he says. "And then I found out that it was one of the most profitable parts in our company." H&M Snow Pros services approximately 600 commercial sites in Northeast Ohio every winter. It does this with approximately 130 regular full-time employees. "We're really dialed into the larger properties like hospitals and multitenant buildings where there's a lot of people that are coming and going," says Mazzurco. In addition to the full-time employees, H&M Snow Pros employs around 150 subcontractors in the Greater Cleveland Area. "We call them partners," he says. "They're the seasonal employees that we pay a premium to because, if you think about it, they get up in the middle of the night and they're working four or five hours helping to service our clientele." To make the logistics work during wintertime, H&M Snow Pros activates about a dozen satellite stations every winter. These are strategically placed throughout Northeast Ohio, often at or near customer sites, to store material, loaders and trucks. Generally, the number of satellite stations is linked to the number of managers that oversee snow removal operations to cut down on the distances that workers need to travel to their zone in inclement weather. Mazzurco's philosophy on snow removal is keeping his employees happy and well taken care of, because it's a competitive industry. "Everyone's got the same snowplow service," says Mazzurco. "Snow and ice management is a culture and lifestyle. My staff will literally put their lives on hold in the winter. If it's Thanksgiving and it's snowing, they're out working. If it's Christmas and it's snowing, they're out working. It snowed on Christmas last year. I was out and about delivering coffee, hot chocolate and donuts and supporting the team."
People Mazzurco attributes the continued success and growth of his Cleveland area companies to the people that surround him. He points directly to a decision he made during the Great Recession as a major turning point. "I really invested heavily in the company in 2008," says Mazzurco. "We went through that recession and my thought process was, there are a lot of good people that are out of work and you could probably get them right now. So I went out and started hiring. My brothers thought I was crazy. In 2008, we were doing about $7 million a year. Now, we're at nearly $22 million. The only difference is the people. As you hire good people, they take on more responsibility. They allow you to grow."
Data + technology "I have always been an analytical, historical data kind of guy," he says. "We capture a lot of information because I'm of the opinion that if you can't track it, you can't control it. If you can't cost it, you can't make money." That philosophy has driven Mazzurco and his Northeast Ohio businesses from the very beginning. He knew from the data he had collected that investing in growth during an economic downturn would yield positive results. The same can be said with his embracing of technology, particularly on the snow side of the business. "It was around the year 2000, when I really got into technology and that's when we invested in pusher boxes," he says. "A standard plow goes on the front of a truck and you roll snow. Pusher boxes allow you to grab more snow and push it to the end of a parking lot. When those first came on the market, we were on the forefront." Investing in pusher boxes meant H&M Snow Pros could tackle large parking lots, like Cleveland area malls and shopping centers and multi-tenant commercial properties. That has been a major income driver and allows the company to continue investing in people, equipment and trucks. Being willing to utilize and experiment with technology has also showed Mazzurco what works and what doesn't. "We try to drive efficiencies with technology, not only with GPS, but all the latest and greatest ways to apply de-icing products," says Mazzurco. "We found that some of the stuff on the market just doesn't work for us." Technology has also allowed Mazzurco more flexibility when it comes to running the business while simultaneously being a major valueadd for customers. "All the technologies, like our operating system, are real-time," says Mazzurco. "I can run the snow business from anywhere in the world because I can pull it up and I know exactly where our trucks are. I can send a customer a GPS report saying we were in your parking lot from this time to that time. It not only helps you with collections, but also helps you with building trust and a relationship with your customer."
Optimistic for the future Mazzurco has experienced years of tremendous growth, where his Cleveland area companies have grown 30% year to year. He's also seen that growth drop off right away. To combat such big swings, Mazzurco manages a realistic controlled growth target of anywhere from 5% to 10% every year. Rather than focusing on tremendous growth numbers, he now emphasizes keeping his customers happy and prioritizes renewals. "I really track our renewal rates hard, and we try to stay at about 92%," he continues. "In other words, if I have a million dollars of maintenance or snow contracts, I want to renew $920,000 of that because that tells me I'm providing a good quality service." "I'm a glass half full guy," says Mazzurco. "I definitely think we've recovered after the pandemic. Our last three years have been really strong. I've got a great team and we've got great relationships."
Snow Removal Service Tips for Northeast Ohio
H&M Snow Pros
Ken Coon, a Snow Manager for H&M Snow Pros, offers some great tips for commercial businesses looking for snow plow services. Ken has been providing snow services in Northeast Ohio for over 12 years. In Ken's professional opinion, the best time to obtain a snow contract for a commercial business would be in late July to early August, but the sooner the better! Ken suggests that three critical items be included in your snow contract: the level of service needed, hours of operations and any other special requirements for your Cleveland area property. To those of you that have not contracted snow plow services yet, Ken advises that Northeast Ohio weather and lake effect snow can be unpredictable and strike at any time. Do not wait until the last minute to get your property under contract: pre-planning equals success!
H&M Snow Pros - Your Northeast Ohio Snow Provider
Services We Offer
Snow Management
In partnership with Neoweather/Norcast Media Group, we monitor the daily
forecast in Northeast Ohio. We know to anticipate a few flurries or the next big
Northeaster. H&M Snow Pros plans accordingly and will send out messages to
our customers informing them of our snow fighting game plan. Our customers
are never left out in the "cold." No pun intended!!!! This can include shoveling,
snow blowing and snow plowing. We will ensure that all your lots and walk areas are
manageable for you, your employees and your customers.
Commercial Snow Plowing
No matter the size of your business and surrounding lots, we will work with you.
Prior to snow arriving, a dedicated Snow Manager will review the scope of work
with you to determine the best plan of action for you.
Pre-Salting/Salting/De-icing
We offer different levels levels of service to meet expectations for your needs and safety,
before, during and after events to ensure the utmost safety standards.
Snow Removal
Where does all the snow go once it is plowed? Our team will also help with snow
removal, upon request - to make room for additional accumulation if needed.
What Does a Snow Plowing Contract Include?
It's Northeast Ohio, so Winters can be unpredictable! Therefore, it is important to have a Snow Plowing
Contract that covers all bases, so you are serviced to your standards.
A Snow Plowing Contract outlines several important factors: When, What and How?
- Depending on the type of business you perform, contracts can vary. Maybe you are a Northeast Ohio hospital that requires services around the clock. You could be a business that is open from 9 am - 5pm, Monday - Friday. Your contract should be very specific in outlining what your requirements are in regard to timing of services, etc.
- The scope of your contract should include all areas that need to be serviced. It can include sidewalk, de-icing, parking lot, etc. But don't forget those other areas that get used too, such as space around the large dumpster, you may have docks that require servicing due to deliveries, etc. Ensuring that this information is included will help the ease and timeliness of servicing.
- If you are a smaller Cleveland area commercial business, this may not be so important. However, if you are a large commercial building, hospital, etc., it may be important to specify the type of equipment that be utilized to service your account. You want to ensure that your provider is well-equipped to manage your contract.
When to plow?
What needs to be plowed?
How will you be serviced?
Winter is right around the corner and H&M would like to help you get through the season. Call us today to get a proposal!
Selection for the Season
Tips on Prequalifying a Snow and Ice Management Provider
By Mark Mazzurco
H&M Snow Pros
I truly feel that snow and ice management of any commercial, medical, industrial or HOA facility is
a partnership between the customer and the provider. It is the service provider's responsibility to
educate a potential client on the true intricacies of our business and how we can add value to their
property or product that they may produce.
I was recently in a meeting with several Cleveland area facility managers. We were being
interviewed for a multi-site snow and ice management contract when the
potential customer posed this question to me: "I want you to describe your
action plan on servicing our 13 sites when we receive two to four inches
of snow and you have four hours until we open."
My answer was as follows: With all due respect, plowing your facilities when we receive two to
four inches of snow with a four hour window is a task that I
believe most snow and ice management contractors in Cleveland can perform. Let me explain our
process when we were expecting two to four inches of snow
and received 12 inches of snow instead, my team has been out
for 30 hours straight, and I need to keep them motivated to finish
the task at hand and keep your facilities clean and safe to get
your staff home. This comment actually was the difference I was told
later on our firm being awarded the contract.
With that in mind, here are five items I feel are imperative to clarify when you
are interviewing a snow and ice provider in the order of importance:
Experience
Experience of the site supervisor as well as the team he has assembled is
paramount in my eyes. Many times you are dealing with a sales person and he
may or may not be the one putting the rubber to the road when the services
are rendered. All good planning is as it sounds: just planning. When night falls
and it is snowing at a rate of one inch per hour, all bets are off and it is comforting
to know that experience takes over to make the game-time decisions that need
to be made quickly.
Density
Density is the amount of work that particular contractor has in your geographic region. This is very important
to the level of service they can provide to your facility. Not only does it help when equipment breaks down, which is
inevitable in snow and ice management, but it also allows the site supervisor to
remain in your geographic area to monitor existing site conditions and potential
changes in weather patterns. All of us know that the weather can deteriorate
pretty rapidly in a short period of time in Northeast Ohio and navigating the
streets can become a time-consuming issue if the supervisor needs to travel
great distances.
Technology
Technology is our friend in this business. Whether it's communicating an
issue via email, monitoring weather remotely in a supervisor truck or the
equipment and/or materials we are using to service a site, a good snow and
ice management company will be on the cutting edge of technology to allow
for the best quality of service expected.
Planning & Education
Planning is very important to allow a customer's expectations to be translated to the front line team members.
I believe that planning should start in May after the last occurrence from the previous year. A good provider will
service all of their equipment to make sure it is in good working condition for the next season. Most
importantly they should identify any service issues or areas that need improvement for the following year services. All of us
are human and make mistakes. Those of us that fix those mistakes and grow from them are great service providers.
Value
Notice I did not say price. I truly believe that the value of
what a good snow and ice management provider is a culmination
of cost of service and the peace of mind you receive knowing that a client
has chosen a company that will be there at 2 A.M. when their services are needed
the most.
I will leave all of you with these last words of wisdom when interviewing
a snow and ice provider for the Greater Cleveland Area. A good partnership comes from good
communication. The more information you provide to your potential service
provider and the more questions that provider asks at your initial meeting
should help you qualify a good fit for your facility.
Contact H&M Snow Pros today to keep your property safe and accessible for the upcoming winter.
Northeast Ohio Snow Plowing Services
H&M Snow Pros
1. Prioritize Safety: Safety is a priority during our Northeast Ohio winter! Ensure your commercial property has clear signage indicating designated snow removal areas, pedestrian walkways, and parking zones. If there is not clear signage, then make sure your provider is well aware of these items before the first snow fall. Address any potential hazards, such as icy patches or uneven surfaces. Addressing this with your provider can prevent accidents and incidents.
2. Maintain Clear Communication: Establish open lines communication with your snowplow provider. Ensure that you have contact information for the company's point of contact for your specific area. This way, in the case of emergencies or untimely weather changes, you can communicate promptly with the person who can adjust your service.
Being able to address different weather scenarios and emergencies is critical to a satisfied customer. Sometimes Northeast Ohio weather radars just can't catch every change in wind or ice storm. While technology has come a long way, sometimes a phone call is the best way to make sure you are covered! At H&M Snow Pros we address the customers' needs and concerns with a direct contact.
Cleveland Area Snow Plowing Services
H&M Snow Pros
1. Choose the Right Snow Plowing Provider: Selecting the right snow plowing service provider in the Greater Cleveland Area is a crucial decision. Look for a company with a proven track record, experienced operators, and well-maintained equipment. Establish clear expectations and terms in your contract, including trigger (depth of snow you expect service), response times, and pricing.
2. Ensure Adequate Snow and Ice Management Equipment: Make sure that your contract specifies if you are required to hold material or equipment on site at your location. Such items include but are not limited to salt, ice melt, snow shovels, a satellite trailer, safety equipment, loader or pushbox, etc. If you are required to keep these items on site and provide them, make sure you frequently inspect and restock items as needed. If your contract specifies keeping equipment on site, make sure to ask where the equipment will be left so it won't affect your business operations.
Cleveland's H&M Snow Pros covers all these basics and more. With over 35 years in the industry, we have shown a proven track record, satisfied repeat customers, and consistent preventative maintenance on all vehicles and equipment. If you would like more information, we would love to hear from you!
Guide to Snow Plowing Services- Preparation
H&M Snow Pros
Snow season in Northeast Ohio always seems imminent even when the temps are approaching the high 90's! We know how fast the weather can turn! Here at H&M Snow Pros we want to help you prepare for this season by providing an easy to digest snow readiness checklist.
1. Evaluate Your Property: The first step for preparing for winter is to conduct a thorough assessment of your commercial property. Identify high-traffic areas, potential hazards, and any areas that require special attention during snow and ice events. Understanding the unique needs of your property will help you plan more effectively with your snow plowing provider.
2. Establish a Snow Removal Plan: Work with your chosen snow plowing company to develop a detailed snow removal plan tailored to your property's specific requirements. This plan should outline snow plowing priorities, designated snow storage areas, and communication protocols. Having a clear plan in place will ensure a swift and coordinated response when winter weather strikes.
Preparing for our Northeast Ohio winter is the most important part for a commercial business client. Knowing exactly what your property needs helps you identify the best provider for snow removal for you. At H&M Snow Pros we are happy to review these items with you. Each property is specific, and we want to work with you to design a plan that fits all your needs to be your commercial snow plowing partner!
Safe Snow Removal Services
to Protect your Business
H&M Snow Pros
H&M Snow Pros strives towards your complete satisfaction. We know that the winter season can be harsh and sometimes dangerous, so we offer a variety of professional services to our customers. You can count on us to keep your Cleveland area commercial properties, walkways and parking lots, clean and safe for your customers and employees. We offer peace of mind so you can focus on running your business. Your safety is always our number one priority. Please remember to always give yourself extra time when traveling. Also, when you see plow or salt trucks out working, please be patient and give them room to operate. It is not always easy for them to see you in your smaller vehicle. Remember that once the snow begins to fall, our crews are dispatched to begin plowing. We work as hard as we can to clear roads, parking lots, and drives quickly and efficiently for all of our customers in the Greater Cleveland Area.
Thanks for helping us to put safety first!
Don't Worry About Snow
at Your Commercial Facility
We've Got it Covered!
By Larry Koon
H&M Snow Pros
Managing inclement weather across Northeast Ohio can be daunting, especially with the liability
associated with snow and ice. Every facility has different needs and we understand there is not a one-size approach to snow and ice management. Our team will work with you to simplify your snow
removal needs to remove the burden of managing multiple snow and ice removal companies across
Northeast Ohio. Not only will we save you time, money, provide a timely service and a safe
environment on the outside of your facility, but our attention to detail on a clean curb appeal stands out
above the rest.
Make us your one phone call for all your commercial snow and ice removal needs for your Cleveland area business.
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