Preparing Your Property for Winter in Perth: A Complete Maintenance Checklist

As the temperatures drop and the first snowflakes start to fall, it’s time to ensure your property is ready for another Ontario winter. Cold weather can be tough on your home, driveway, and landscape. However, with the right preparation, you can prevent damage and avoid costly repairs come spring.

At Burns Landscape and Excavation in Perth, Ontario, we know what it takes to protect your property from snow, ice, and freezing conditions. Here’s a complete checklist to help you get your property winter-ready.

1. Assess Drainage Around Your Home

Before the ground freezes completely, take a close look at how water flows around your home. Poor drainage can lead to flooding, pooling, and ice buildup once the snow melts.

What to Do:

• Ensure the ground slopes away from your foundation.

• Clear leaves and debris from ditches, swales, and drains.

• Check that downspouts direct water at least 6 feet away from your home.

• If you notice standing water or low spots, consider professional grading and drainage services before winter sets in.

  
  

2. Prepare Your Lawn and Garden

A bit of fall maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your lawn and garden healthy through the cold months.

What to Do:

• Cut grass shorter for the last mow of the season (about 2–2.5 inches).

• Rake leaves to prevent mold or dead spots.

• Aerate compacted soil to improve spring growth.

• Protect shrubs and young trees with burlap wraps or mulch.

  
  

3. Check Your Driveway and Walkways

Freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on paved surfaces. Cracks that go unsealed before winter can expand and lead to major damage.

What to Do:

• Fill and seal any cracks in your driveway or walkways.

• Ensure your driveway is graded properly for drainage.

• Stock up on salt or sand for icy conditions.

• Arrange for professional snow plowing so your surfaces remain clear and safe all winter long.

  
  

4. Inspect Outdoor Equipment

Winter weather is hard on outdoor tools and machinery. Taking a few steps to winterize your equipment helps prolong its lifespan and ensures it’s ready when you need it.

What to Do:

• Drain and store hoses and irrigation systems.

• Clean and service lawnmowers, trimmers, and power tools before storing.

• Check snow blowers and plow attachments for proper operation.

• Keep fuel-treated and batteries charged for cold weather.

  
  

5. Trim Trees and Remove Hazards

Heavy snow and ice can weigh down branches, creating a safety risk for people, roofs, and vehicles.

What to Do:

• Trim overhanging or dead branches near driveways, roofs, and walkways.

• Remove weak or damaged trees that could fall during storms.

• Consider professional help for large trees close to power lines or structures.

  
  

6. Prepare for Snow Removal

Don’t wait until the first big snowfall to think about snow removal. Consistent, reliable plowing and maintenance make winter far less stressful.

What to Do:

• Mark driveway edges and obstacles with reflective stakes.

• Set up snow removal early with a contractor like Burns Landscape and Excavation.

• Keep walkways clear to prevent slips and falls.

• Plan where snow will be piled so it doesn’t block drainage areas or driveways.

  
  

7. Additional Tips for Winter Property Maintenance

Insulate Pipes

Cold temperatures can freeze your pipes, leading to costly repairs. Insulate pipes in unheated areas to prevent this.

Check Your Heating System

Before winter hits, ensure your heating system is working efficiently. Schedule a maintenance check to avoid breakdowns.

Stock Up on Supplies

Keep a supply of essential items like shovels, ice melt, and sand. Being prepared can make winter much easier.

Preparing your property before winter hits is the best way to avoid damage, flooding, and safety issues. Whether it’s grading, drainage, or snow plowing, the team at Burns Landscape and Excavation has the expertise and equipment to keep your property safe, functional, and well-maintained all season long.

Contact us today to schedule your winter property maintenance or snow removal service in Perth and surrounding Lanark County.