RICHMOND, Va. — The recent snowstorm that blanketed much of the region has brought challenges for residents and businesses alike, but local landscaping companies are stepping in to provide much-needed snow removal services. While the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has been working tirelessly to maintain roadways, many homes and commercial properties have been left covered in a thick layer of snow. That’s where companies like Powhatan County-based Aerations Plus are answering the call.
In the wake of the storm, several local businesses have reported a surge in demand for snow removal services, particularly from commercial properties. Office buildings, churches, and other businesses have turned to landscaping companies to clear snow from parking lots, walkways, and entrances. Aerations Plus, in business for over 25 years, has been at the forefront of this effort.
Corey Fulcher, vice president of Aerations Plus, explained that while landscaping companies typically face a lull during the winter months, the recent snowstorm has provided an opportunity to offer snow removal services. “Being a landscaping company, we’re not able to go out and work during winter storms,” Fulcher said. “There are some things we can do when there’s snow on the ground, but a lot of the work is on hold. The snow removal services help us keep our crew working and ensure they’re getting paid during this time.”
Aerations Plus has been preparing for winter storms ahead of time by purchasing a plow truck in 2022. This marks the first year their staff has been able to put it to use, thanks to the increased snowfall. Much of their snow removal efforts are completed in the early hours, well before dawn, to ensure customers can access their properties with ease. Fulcher shared that the company typically pre-treats sites about 12 hours before a storm hits to mitigate ice accumulation.
Despite the long hours and demanding conditions, the work provides a much-needed financial boost for the team during an otherwise slow season. “It’s beneficial for everybody within our company,” Fulcher noted. “Our crew stays employed and keeps making money, and when they’re working overnight, they earn a little extra. It helps them pay their bills and stay afloat during the winter months.”
While the weather in the coming days is expected to warm up, winter is far from over, and Aerations Plus says they’re ready for whatever conditions may come next. The company’s efforts reflect a growing trend in which local landscaping businesses are diversifying their services to meet the needs of the community, even as the winter weather continues.
With more snow potentially on the horizon, Richmond-area businesses and homeowners can rest assured knowing that companies like Aerations Plus are prepared to help clear the way.
