Winter weather can wreak havoc on paved surfaces like parking lots. The dramatic fluctuations in temperature between hot and cold can leave cracks and dangerous potholes in its wake. Damage caused by winter weather and snowplowing operations also can result in an increased number of downed or damaged traffic signs.

While these issues are a natural part of the weathering process, it’s important to take care of them sooner rather than later. With spring just around the corner, now is the time to tackle your parking lot maintenance to keep your facility safe, operational and looking its best.

Traffic Safety Direct is now offering our customers the convenience of having online orders delivered by truck! We recently introduced a less than truckload (LTL) heavy-freight shipping option on our website. This will allow you to purchase large products – which previously could only be picked up at our site – and ship them via LTL freight, as well as to combine multiple orders into a single, convenient delivery.

Buyers often start thinking about purchasing equipment in the months leading up to snow plowing season. At Plow Parts Direct, our customers start asking, “What’s new this year?” as soon as the leaves start to turn. We think the timing is perfect – because top manufacturers like Western Products begin introducing and promoting their new snow and ice control products right now.

As winter winds down in many parts of the country, snow removal professionals begin to take stock of the wear and tear on their equipment – and look for opportunities to save money on purchasing new plows and spreaders. Whether you want to upgrade or expand your fleet or need to replace outdated or worn out equipment, now is the time to shop for end-of-the-season deals.

At Plow Parts Direct, we are often asked, “When is the best time to buy a snow plow or spreader?” The obvious answer to this question is “Whenever you’re ready!” However, for those looking for great prices on snow and ice removal equipment, the ideal time to buy is at the end of the season.

Snow plows are designed to be tough enough to move anything from a few inches to several feet of snow. However, snow plow operators are human – and at this point in the season, you may be feeling the effects of working long hours under hazardous conditions.

Now that winter is in full swing, chances are your snow and ice removal equipment has been put to good use. Making sure your snow plow is ready for harsh conditions can help to prevent future damage and repairs. But even though you may have cleaned and serviced your snow plows, salt spreaders and trucks long before the first snowfall, normal wear and tear can take a toll.

Snow plows often perform in conditions of limited visibility. Weather conditions, time of day and the lighting systems on plow vehicles all influence the ability of the operator to see the roadway ahead. Lighting on snow plows must provide forward illumination for the operator as well increase the ability of other drivers to immediately recognize the plow. This is a critical safety measure since plows often move at slower speeds than other traffic during winter maintenance operations, which can be potentially hazardous to motorists who get too close.

With the official start of winter, the pressures that are inherent in running a snow and ice removal business tend to multiply. The last thing you want is to worry about is having issues attaching a snow plow to your vehicle. A mounting system that is  straightforward, accurate and simple to use and install is essential – whether you are a large commercial snow plowing operation or only engage in limited snow removal.

Seasoned snow removal professionals know that the performance and longevity of their plows and spreaders depends on proper preventive maintenance and preseason care. Overlooking even the simplest maintenance tasks can lead to big problems when you hit the road, resulting in headaches for you and the people who depend on you to keep their roads clear and safe.