In Barrie and across Simcoe County, the window between the last leaves falling and the first snow that sticks can be short. A few hours of work in that window saves a lot of repair in April. Here’s the checklist we work through, in roughly the order it makes sense.
Lawn
- Get the leaves off. A thick, wet layer of leaves left over winter smothers the grass and invites mould and bare patches. A light layer can be mulched with the mower; heavy drifts should come off.
- Aerate and overseed, if the lawn needs it. Late summer into early fall is the best window for aeration and overseeding — before it gets too cold for new seed to establish.
- Keep cutting until it stops growing. Finish the season at a normal height rather than scalping it short or leaving it long and matted.
- Mark the edges. Stakes along the edge of the driveway and walkways help whoever clears snow avoid tearing up the lawn.
Garden beds
- Cut back perennials that are finished and prone to disease; leave some seed heads and grasses standing for winter interest and wildlife if you like.
- Pull annuals and clear out debris.
- Top up mulch where it’s thin to protect roots through freeze–thaw.
- Water evergreens, especially cedars, well before the ground freezes if the fall has been dry.
Gutters and drainage
- Clean the gutters after the leaves are down and before freeze-up. Clogged gutters overflow against the foundation and can freeze into ice over steps and walkways. See gutter cleaning.
- Make sure downspouts are pointed away from the house and not onto driveways or walks where the water will refreeze.
- Clear leaves out of window wells, yard drains and catch basins.
Hardscaping
- Sweep leaves off patios and walkways; wet leaves stain some surfaces and trap moisture in the joints.
- Look for low spots, rocking pavers and open joints. Small repairs are easier before winter makes them worse — see paver repair.
- If you plan to use de-icer on a concrete slab poured this year, read up first — new concrete is sensitive to salt. Our driveway ice guide covers the options.
Get ready for snow
- Decide where the snow is going to go before the first storm, and keep that area clear.
- Put away hoses, disconnect them from outside taps, and store furniture and planters that can crack.
- Line up your winter help early. If you want regular clearing or specialty work like pushback and ice breaking, the schedule fills up once the snow starts — see our snow and ice services.
Yard waste
Most municipalities in the area collect leaf and yard waste in the fall, but schedules and rules differ from town to town. Check your municipality’s collection calendar before you bag everything up.
Rather hand it off?
Our fall and spring cleanups cover leaves, beds, debris and gutters, with everything hauled away. Tell us about your property and we’ll send a clear, written quote — free.
