How to Shovel and Snowblow Your Interlock Without Causing Damage

When winter hits, your interlock driveway or walkway has to stay safe and snow-free, without getting scratched, chipped, or shifted in the process. The way you shovel and snowblow matters just as much as how often you do it.

Why Interlock Needs Extra Care in Winter

Interlock is durable, but winter conditions and equipment can be harsh on it. A bit of extra care goes a long way toward keeping it looking great and performing well.

Metal edges, heavy machines, and freeze-thaw cycles can all affect the surface and joints of your pavers, especially over several winters in a row.

• Metal tools can scratch and chip the face and corners of pavers.

• Uneven areas can catch equipment, causing damage or lifting stones.

• Joint sand can be pulled out, leading to movement and wobbling.

Tip 1: Use the Right Shovel

The right shovel is your go-to for protecting your interlock. Choosing gentler materials and using a softer technique helps prevent surface damage.

Instead of attacking the snow, think about guiding it off your driveway or walkway.

• Choose a plastic or poly shovel instead of a full metal blade.

• Avoid chopping at ice directly on the pavers whenever possible.

• Use a pushing motion rather than jabbing down into packed snow.

Tip 2: Adjust Your Snowblower for Interlock

A snowblower can make winter much easier, but if it’s set too low, it can act more like a grinder than a snow-clearing tool.

A few simple adjustments help you remove snow efficiently while being kinder to the pavers underneath.

• Raise the skid shoes slightly so the scraper bar isn’t scraping the stone.

• Aim to leave a thin layer of snow rather than going perfectly bare.

• Blow snow away from lights and fixtures so you don’t bury or hit them later.

Tip 3: Protect the Joints

Your interlock relies on sand-filled joints to keep everything locked together. How you shovel can affect those joints more than you might think.

Over time, aggressive techniques can pull sand out, which leads to sinking, shifting, or uneven stones.

• Shovel in smooth passes instead of chopping or stabbing at icy spots.

• Whenever possible, follow the pattern of the pavers as you push snow.

• Watch for joints that look low and consider having them topped up in the spring.

Tip 4: Be Careful With Ice Melt

Ice melt can help keep walkways safe, but some products and overuse can be rough on pavers and nearby materials.

Choosing the right product and not using it too often helps balance safety and longevity.

• Choose ice melt labelled safe for pavers or concrete.

• Apply a light and even amount rather than piling it in one area.

• Sweep up leftover granules once the ice is gone to reduce residue.

Tip 5: Be Extra Careful Around Lighting

Many interlock driveways and walkways now include lighting, heated surfaces, and exterior outlets, all of which need protection in winter.

Good snow-clearing habits help your electrical systems last longer and stay safer.

• Avoid hitting the ground lights with shovels or snowblowers.

• Don’t push heavy snow piles on top of fixtures, boxes, or cords.

• Be mindful of where heating cables or wiring might run under the surface.

Tip 6: Clear Snow Early, and Often

Timing matters just as much as technique. The more snow compacts and freezes, the more force you’ll need to remove it, and the higher the risk of damage.

Short, regular clean-ups are easier on both your body and your interlock.

• Tackle heavy snowfalls in stages instead of waiting until it’s packed down.

• Avoid driving over fresh snow before you clear it to prevent deep ruts.

• Try to clear snow before major freeze-thaw swings to reduce ice buildup.

Choosing the Right Snowblower: SOS Power

If you rely on a snowblower to clear your interlock, having the right machine makes all the difference. SOS Power offers a range of snowblowers suited for Ottawa winters and gentle enough for paver surfaces.

How SOS Power Snowblowers Help Protect Your Interlock:

• Adjustable height settings so the scraper bar doesn’t grind against your pavers.

• Gentler auger designs that clear efficiently without damaging stone.

• Proper machine sizing so you’re not using equipment that’s too heavy for your driveway.

• Reliable servicing and tune-ups to keep your snowblower running smoothly all winter.

If you’re considering a new snowblower or need help choosing one that’s safe for interlock, SOS Power has the expertise and equipment to guide you.

When to Call a Professional

If something feels off with your interlock, catching minor issues early can save you from bigger repairs down the road.

• Pavers are shifting, sinking, or rocking when you walk on them.

• Edges or corners of stones are chipping more each season.

Protecting Your Interlock

Your interlock driveway or walkway is a significant investment. With the right tools and habits, you can keep everything looking great and working safely through even the toughest Ottawa winters.

Reach out to our team to chat more about how to shovel and snowblow your interlock without causing damage.