Preparing Commercial Properties for Winter: A Contractor’s Checklist

When the leaves have fallen and frost begins to settle, commercial property contractors in Ontario know what’s coming next, months of cold, snow, and ice. Preparing your clients’ sites early is the key to preventing damage, ensuring safety, and maintaining strong business relationships through the harshest months of the year.

Here’s your essential contractor’s checklist to keep every property winter-ready.

 1. Inspect Drainage and Grading

Poor drainage is one of the biggest culprits behind winter damage. Before the freeze, walk each property to check grading and ensure water is diverting away from structures, parking lots, and walkways.

Reinforce weak areas with proper drainage materials such as gravel or clear stone, both available for bulk delivery from Adams Landscape Supply.

For more guidance, see our earlier post: Drainage Solutions Every Homeowner Should Consider Before Snow Hits.

2. Protect Hardscapes and Surfaces

Concrete and pavers can crack under fluctuating temperatures and heavy salt use. Advise your clients to use eco-friendly de-icing products and clear debris before the first snowfall.

If you notice sinking or uneven pavers, now is the time to re-level and compact the base material, a small investment that prevents costly spring repairs.

3. Secure Outdoor Fixtures and Furniture

Remove or secure items such as planters, benches, and garbage bins. Winter winds and snowplows can easily damage loose structures.

Encourage property owners to store seasonal décor and outdoor furniture in safe, covered spaces until spring returns.

4. Prepare Snow Management Areas

Identify designated snow pile zones to keep parking lots and walkways accessible all winter. Make sure these areas are located away from drains or pedestrian paths to prevent flooding when snow melts.

Adams Landscape Supply can help you source bulk salt, sand, and clear stone, ensuring your crews are equipped for snow and ice management throughout the season.

5. Maintain Equipment and Refill Supplies

Winter is tough on tools and machinery. Check snow blowers, plows, and spreaders to ensure they’re in working order before the first storm hits.

Restock essentials early, from aggregate for drainage to salt for de-icing, to avoid supply shortages when temperatures drop. Reliable contractors plan ahead, and Adams is ready to deliver materials when you need them most.

Learn more about how Adams supports contractors year-round in Delivery Done Right: How Adams Landscaping Supports Contractors Year-Round.

6. Communicate With Clients

Proactive communication builds trust. Send out winter maintenance reminders, confirm service schedules, and share weather alerts when necessary. A clear plan keeps operations smooth and clients confident in your professionalism.

Stay Ahead of Winter With Adams Landscape Supply

Ontario winters can be unpredictable, but your preparation doesn’t have to be. From bulk material delivery to expert advice, Adams Landscape Supply helps contractors protect properties, reduce downtime, and start spring with a strong reputation intact.

Visit the Contractor Services page to learn how Adams can support your winter maintenance operations.