Mercy StephensWhat are some of the must-have features for finding the best snowblower for gravel driveway? Finding the best snow blower for gravel driveway can be tough, especially if you’re trying to find the best snow blower for gravel driveways.
By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for.
Keep reading for our 6 top picks for snow blowers for gravel driveways, plus key features that you want to look out for and all the other critical details you need to know before making a decision.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
After examining some snowblowers, we settled for the Briggs & Stratton 1022 Single-Stage Snowblower as our top pick. It offers 22-inch clearing width, a scraper bar, LED lights, a lightweight and sturdy design, and is easy to use.
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Comparison Table: Snow Blowers
Best Overall Briggs & Stratton 1022 22-Inch Blower | Best on the Bucks TACKLIFE 20-inch Corded Snow blower | Best Snow Blower For Long Gravel Driveway Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Snow Thrower | |
Photo: |  |  |  |
Intake Height: | 12.5 inch | 10 inch | 12 inch |
Clearing width: | 22 inch wide | 20 inch wide | 21 inch wide |
Warranty : | 3 years | 2 years | 2 years |
Rating: | |||
Price: |
Buying Guide: Snow Blowers
There are varying factors that determine whether you’re getting the best snowblower for your home or not. This will help you efficiently narrow down your choices until you’re left with the best snowblower for a gravel driveway that’s meant for you and will efficiently meet your snow-clearing needs. Check out the buying guide below.
1. Snowblower Type
Snow blowers are a great investment for removing snow from your gravel driveways. But before you buy one, you’ll want to know the difference between all of these types.
Single Stage Snow-blowers
The single-stage snow blower is the least expensive type. It has a single auger that moves light snow from the surface to a collection bin. The auger can be adjusted so that it opens at different angles and depths if you have a slope in your yard.
Two-stage snow blower
The two-stage snow blower has two augers: one that moves the snow from the surface to the collection bin, and another that collects the water that drains off of it. This helps the two-stage snow blowers to prevent flooding when several inches of snowfall on top of already-deep snow.
Three-stage snow blowers
The three-stage snow blower type has three augers: one for throwing snow from the surface to the collection bin, another that collects water from both sides of it, and another that redirects any remaining water back into channels under your gravel driveway or sidewalk so it doesn’t end up on your lawn or gravel driveway!
2. Power Source
Three power sources are being used for snowblowers – electric, gas and, battery. Before you decide the best snow blower for you, you should put some factors into consideration. Most electric-powered snowblowers come with cords and are limiting when you want to clear a long driveway; they are also mostly created for light snowfall. Gas-powered snow blowers are quite heavy and meant for clearing high-volume snow; they also require more maintenance than other power sources.
The final type is a battery-powered snowblower, and they are one of the most comfortable choices you can go with. They are easy to maintain and help you work without fume; the only downside to this is the limited time that comes with the battery. Consider which you’re most comfortable with and can work efficiently with before making your decision.
3. Width and Depth
This is just as important as the snowblower type and should be duly considered when choosing a snowblower. It shows you just how much snow the snowblower can comfortably take in. If you have a lot of snow to clear, then you need a snowblower with a large clearing width. This will help you get the snow-clearing job done quickly and efficiently. While three-stage snow blowers are mostly used as commercial machines, you can use them if you have an extensive clearing area. The single-stage snowblowers are also efficient in clearing from 11-22 inches of snow at once; they are, however, best for when you don’t have a lot of grounds to cover.
4. Weight and Size
You also need to deeply consider how heavy the snowblower is before you purchase it. This is because it can affect the machine’s performance and how easily you can maneuver the machine in whatever direction you want. The weight of a snowblower is directly related to the size of the snowblowers. The heaviest option is the gas-powered snowblower, it also offers the best performance and a wide clearing width.
The downside lies in the maneuvering; they can be hard to maneuver. Electric snowblowers are generally the lightest, followed by the battery-powered options. The weight also determines how easily you could store the snowblower. During the warmer seasons, you might find it hard to store the larger and heavier snowblower properly. Poor storage conditions could lead to damage and several mechanical problems when you need to use the snowblower.
5. Price
This is just as important and should be considered carefully; you need to create a budget. How much are you looking to really spend on a snowblower? Bear in mind that quality needs to come first when making a decision. This does not necessarily mean that the expensive snowblowers are more efficient or offer the best quality. Low-priced snowblowers do not also translate to the snowblower being low quality. There are different snowblower brands; look out for one that offers you value and fits right into your specification before making a purchase. Ensure you don’t go overboard with your budget; there are efficient snowblowers you can purchase without breaking the bank.
6. Other Factors to Consider
You should duly consider the factors listed above, but other features make the work much easier to operate and comfortable for you. One such feature includes headlights that allow you to work conveniently in the evenings, at night, or early dawn. Heated handgrips are also vital, so you don’t get frostbite while clearing your driveway. Safety shot-offs and start options are some features you need to look out for. They help you get the job done efficiently and should be looked out for as a lucky bonus.
7. Grade And Slope
When you’re deciding whether or not to get a snow blower, one of the most important factors is slope.
If you live in a small town or suburb, chances are that your driveway is not very wide and steep. For example, if you have a typical suburban house with an asphalt or concrete driveway, then you should choose the Snow Joe 2-cycle series electric snow blower for your small driveway.
The Snow Joe 2-cycle series is designed specifically for small driveways with slopes of up to 15 degrees.
If you live somewhere else and your driveway has a steep slope of more than 15 degrees, then you should consider getting yourself one of the Toro Recycler series snow blowers. These three stage snow blower machines are specially designed for people who live on hilly areas.
Snow blower Alternatives
Lawn Tractor
One option is a lawn tractor. These machines are typically used for gardening and landscaping, but they’re also perfect for clearing off your driveway or driveway parking area before heading off to work in the morning.
They’ll have your driveway cleared within minutes, so you can get out of bed and get ready for the day without having to worry about any extra snow getting in your way.
ATV
The second option is an ATV (all-terrain vehicle). Like a lawn tractor, it has a small engine and can be used for many different things around your house or garden—from mowing grass to collecting leaves from the yard. There are several models on Amazon with free shipping and returns, so check them out!
Best Snow Blower for Gravel Driveway: Our Reviews
For a snowblower to qualify as the best, it has to be able to efficiently clear out snow while possessing other factors that make it ideal for your area. It also needs to be simple to operate through different amounts of snowfall and easily maneuverable. We have effectively narrowed the list down for you, and below are the best five snowblowers in the market. Keep reading, and you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.
1. Briggs & Stratton 1022 Single-Stage Snowblower
Specifications:
- Gas-powered
- Weighs 93 pounds
- Easy maneuverability with simple control
- 22-inch clearing width
- 13 inch intake height
This snowblower deserves its spot at the top of our list because it offers so many features that make snow clearing easy and comfortable. Briggs and Stratton 1022 Single-Stage Snowblower is gas-powered and designed to clear up your driveway without wasting time quickly. It has a 22inch clearing width and a 13inch intake depth that makes it ideal irrespective of your location or snowfall level.
You don’t have to worry about pushing handles or worrying about a separate starter; this snowblower comes with a push-button electric start. It also features an augur-assisted drive system, which allows the rubber-edged augur to pull the machine along. The discharge chute is adjustable to move it from one side to another; it also throws snow 30 feet from its position.
Another lovable feature of this snowblower is the installed dual led lights that make it convenient to clear snow at any time of the day. It is lightweight, which makes it easier to maneuver. It features a sturdy construction that ensures it lasts you for many winter seasons with proper maintenance.
What special needs does it cater to?
The Briggs & Stratton 1022 is a mid-budget snowblower. The engine satisfies the needs of most average users, and if you’re looking for something that will clear a few inches of snow and ice with relative ease, this will get the job done. It’s easy to use and maintain, but it might struggle with very heavy snow.
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2. Best Snow Blower For Long Driveway – Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Snow Thrower
Specifications:
- Electric-powered
- 15-amp unit
- Rubber-tipped blades
- Throws snow 25-feet away
- Durable scraper bar
- 22-inch clearing width
- 13-inch intake height
An electric option that offers you maximum performance is the Snow Joe SJ627E Electric Snowthrower. It provides the power of a gas-powered snowblower with the optimum performance of an electric option to help you effortlessly clear away snow at all times. It comes with a 15-amp unit that allows you efficiently clear large walkways and gravel driveways on a single charge.
The four heavy-duty rubber-tipped blades it comes with allows it slice through various level of snow. With a 22-inch clearing width and 13-inch intake depth, your driveway should be as good as new within a few minutes. This snowblower also comes with an adjustable chute that allows you to direct your snow to whatever area you prefer and then throw it 25-feet away.
If you want to use this electric snowblower on smooth driveways and pavements, you can use the scraper bar at the bottom to clear the ground. If you also want to work at night, you’re covered as this electric snow thrower features dual LED lights that will illuminate the way for you. It is lightweight and, therefore, easy to maneuver as you clear up your gravel driveway.
What special needs does it cater to?
This cordless two stage snow blower with single auger can give you more flexibility in your driveway. While it’s not designed for heavy snowfalls and tough conditions, it works great for removing snow on regular basis.
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3. TACKLIFE 20-inch Corded Snowblower
Specification:
- 15 Amp motor
- 3000 rpm motor
- 4-blade Steel auger
- Cuts 20 in. Wide by 10 in. Deep
- 180° adjustable directional Chute
TACKLIFE snowblower is one of the best snowblowers you could add to your home. It is electric-powered and offers a 15amp motor that can move up to 800 pounds of snow in a minute. This allows you to clear out a large driveway in a matter of minutes where there’s heavy or light snow to tackle. It also offers a 20-inch clearing width and 10inch intake height that makes work much easier for you.
The TACKLIFE snowblower comes with an adjustable chute that allows you to direct the snow in any direction and then throw it 30 feet away. It comes installed with a 90-degree snow nozzle, which also provides you with more clearance choices as you clear snow off your gravel driveway. The 4-blade steel augur is covered with rubber, so it doesn’t damage the ground and ensures the blades last a long time.
There is a double switch to ensure you don’t accidentally switch it on and a plastic-covered handle so easy gripping. It is quite silent while being used, and since it is electric-powered, it requires little to no maintenance. It is also designed lightweight, which ensures easy mobility.
What special needs does it cater to?
The TACKLIFE 20-inch Corded two-stage snow blower is designed to handle any type of driveway—whether it’s made from asphalt or stone, this machine will remove all types of snow easily. Plus, its ergonomic design ensures that you’ll be comfortable using it for hours on end without getting sore hands or muscles strained by prolonged use.
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4. Snow Joe iON100V-21SB-CT Cordless Blower
Specifications:
- Battery-powered
- Quiet operation
- 30 feet throwing distance
- 21 clearing width
- 12 intake height
- Installed scraper bar
If you’re looking out for an eco-friendly option, this snowblower is the ideal choice for you. It is battery-powered and offers you the performance of a gas-powered snowblower while ridding you of the mess. It provides a variable speed and offers an augur-assisted drive system to help make it easier to operate the snowblower.
It offers a 21inch clearing width and 12inch intake height to make clearing up snow from your gravel driveway easier and speedy. With an adjustable chute installed that allows you to change the direction your snow is thrown, you can throw the snow about 30 feet away.
The battery can last up to 30 minutes, which is more than enough to get your driveway clean. If you prefer to clear up your driveway late at night or early dawn, there are dual LED lights installed to make sure you don’t miss any spot. It is lightweight, which makes it easy to maneuver and store during the warmer seasons.
What special needs does it cater to?
The Snow Joe iON100V-21SB-CT Cordless Blower is the best snow blower for gravel driveways because it has a powerful engine, an electric start, and a high-speed transmission. This means you can easily clear away any snow or ice on your driveway without having to worry about getting stuck in the process.
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5. Snow Joe SJ623E Electric Snow Thrower
Specifications:
- Electric-powered
- Weighs 34 pounds
- Four-blade rotor
- 18-inch clearing width
- 10-inch intake height
- 15amp motor
This is the last snowblower on our list; it efficiently cleans up your snow-filled gravel driveway. This snowblower can remove up to 720 pounds of snow in just a minute with its 4-blade rotor, which easily cuts through the snow. It is made with heavy-grade steel that ensures its durability while making it an ideal choice for rough terrains.
You’re assured of cleaning your gravel driveway in no time at all with the 18inch clearing width and 10-inch intake width this snowblower offers you. There is very little to no maintenance needed for this electric-powered snowblower. Unlike gas-powered blowers, you don’t have to worry about leakages or spillages that could lead to operational error.
With 34 pounds, it is lightweight and, therefore, easy to maneuver and store. Its adjustable chute allows you to throw the snow in whatever direction you prefer. It also comes with LED lights to work in the evenings or at early dawn. Attached is a chute cleaner that you can use to easily remove snow or ice that gets stuck in the chute; this is a snowblower designed to offer high performance at all times.
What special needs does it cater to?
This snow blower is great for anyone who wants to clear their gravel driveways without dealing with gas or electric equipment hazards. It’s also compact and easy to store, so you won’t have difficulty finding space for it in your garage.
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6. Honda 660780 Variable Speed Self-Propelled 24 in.
Specifications:
- Brand Honda
- Power Source Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions 58.5 x 26.4 x 43.5 inches
- Item Weight 1500 Pounds
- Engine Displacement 196 Cubic Centimeters
- Voltage 12 Volts
The Honda 660780 Variable Speed Self-Propelled 24 in. is one of the best snowblowers for gravel driveways. It has a large Briggs and Stratton engine, which gives it enough power to clear your driveway quickly and efficiently.
The controls are easy to use, and you can start the machine with just a push of a button, so there’s no need for long-winded assembly instructions or complicated controls.
This machine also comes standard with two lever handles, one on each side of the unit, which allows you to move around easily while clearing snow without having to strain yourself too much or risk falling off the machine while using it.
The Honda 660780 Variable Speed Self-Propelled 24 in. has a powerful electric motor that moves the machine at speeds up to 16 mph. The machine also has an adjustable hydrostatic transmission with 21 forward/reverse speeds to find the right speed for your needs.
What special needs does it cater to?
These are the best snow blowers for gravel driveways and walkways, as it can handle the challenge of clearing out large amounts of snow and ice without leaving a large trail of debris behind. It also comes with a trimmer attachment that helps remove grass and other debris from sidewalks so they are clear for passage.
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FAQs: Snow blowers
How loud is a snow blower?
The answer to this depends on the type of snow blower. Gas-powered snow blowers make more noise than electrical or battery-powered snow blowers. Note that an engine defect can cause it to be loud.
Why isn’t my snow blower’s augur turning?
There are some valid reasons why this problem could be happening. It might be because large dirt is stuck in the augur, making it stiff. It could also be a broken pin issue or damage being caused to the gear or belt.
How do I maintain my snow blower?
This depends on the snow blower being used; gas-powered snow blowers require oil changing to work every winter season. However, all snow blowers require proper maintenance in well-ventilated and spacious rooms to prevent corrosion of metal parts.
Can you use a snow blower on gravel driveways?
Yes, you can use a snow blower on a gravel driveways, but it must not be single-stage snow blowers. Go for two stage snow blower or three stage snow blowers that offer adjustable auger heights. Don’t select the lowest height – this will leave some snow on your gravel driveways, but it will minimize the chances of picking up gravel driveways from off your gravel driveways. If the ground is frozen a little bit, the single-stage snow blower will hardly pick up the stones.
Wrapping Up
This article looked at six of the top snow blowers for gravel driveways on the market today. Remember to read our buying guide at the top to help determine the best one for your needs!
Hopefully, the reviews above will help you choose the best blower for your gravel driveway. It’s hard to determine the right one without trying one out first. Remember that your choice should depend on various factors, such as the area you need to clear and your personal taste.
So which snow blower would you recommend for gravel driveways? Comment below to let us know which brands you found the best snow blowers for gravel driveways.
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