As we approach winter garden furniture is stored away, the BBQ is retired for another season and potted plants are covered, it can be easy to neglect your patio. Whilst most patios don’t require too much maintenance, it’s still important to ensure yours is protected as the winter chill approaches.
Throughout the winter months, it’s important to keep on top of a few things to ensure your paving stands the test of time. Here’s our 5 simple tips to keep everything ship-shape.
Keep debris at bay
If you have trees in or around your garden, you may be experiencing a flurry of Autumn leaves causing quite the build up on your patio. Whilst it’s easy to neglect them and wait for them to wash away naturally, you’re likely to be left with a pile of mulch underneath. This can become a breeding ground for moss and algae which can stain your patio over time. It can also present a dangerous slip hazard.
So, we advise that you intermittently sweep away piles of leaves and give your patio a rinse down to prevent any buildups.
Prepare for ice
Notorious in late December and January, frost and ice is not only a slip hazard, it can also cause cracks and damage over time. This is particularly prevalent in cheaper paving such as concrete and brick. If cracks occur, water can seep in and expand, causing serious damage.
To prevent this, small cracks can be sealed before the winter months using paving filler. With larger cracks, it’s advisable to seek advice from a professional before repairing them yourself. It may be the case that some slabs need completely replacing to avoid further damage.
Prevent moss
Moss thrives in damp, dark conditions, making winter the perfect time for it to spread. Structural moss generally breeds on concrete, asphalt and wood, preferring shaded spots with poor air circulation.
Not only does moss pose a potential slip hazard, it can also cause much more damage below the surface. To prevent this, it’s important to keep the surface area of your patio clear of debris and any build ups that would harbour moss. Using a bristle brush to sweep the surface will help to deter any build ups. A pressure washer will help to remove signs of any growth before it has a chance to fully embed itself into your patio.
Cover up
If you plan to keep using your patio throughout the cooler months as an outdoor extension to your home, using an awning or gazebo will help to keep it dry. This will help to keep moss, frost and rain at bay, ensuring that it’s still usable and kept in a good condition throughout the winter.
Opt for a strong stone
If you haven’t yet invested in a new patio, we’d always advise that you do your research first. Whilst it can be appealing to opt for a budget friendly option, cheaper paving doesn’t withstand severe weather as well, meaning you could end up paying twice for your patio.
If you want a patio built to stand the test of time, we always recommend natural stone like Limestone and Sandstone over man made alternatives like concrete. It’s a much more durable, frost resistant stone making it a popular choice where longevity is concerned.
If you’d like any further advice on protecting your patio during winter months or on choosing the right paving stone for longevity, we’d be happy to help. Contact us whichever way you prefer here. You can also find our full paving range here.
