Protecting your paver patio from the ravages of cold weather and winter’s harshest elements is vital to its appearance and long-term condition. There are several key steps that homeowners can take to maintain their integrity so that the surface isn’t subject to seasonal damage and costly repairs. Here are some ways to handle this vital property maintenance task.

Do:

Seal the surface.

The elements can have a severe impact on the integrity of the surface. From potent ultraviolet rays to pouring rain to heavy snowfall, all can cause the paver patio’s color to fade with time. They can even encourage weed growth between the paving stones. Sealing the surface is the best way to prevent these issues from occurring and protect it during winter’s particularly harsh weather.

Clean it regularly.

After it snows or on the day after a storm, take the time to clear your patio pavers of debris. When snow lingers for a long time, the moisture can seep into the pavers and, eventually, to the base material beneath it. That can have a settling effect that causes the ground to move, much like soil erosion causes the home’s foundation to shift. The result can be detrimental to the patio. Removing surface moisture quickly, therefore, can be effective in its long-term health.

Don’t:

Use metal tools.

The best way to clean your paver patio is with a plastic shovel instead of a heavy metal model. Even then, it’s best to avoid scraping the surface too harshly. Use a lifting motion instead. Alternately, a snow blower will effectively remove the snow without touching the surface at all.

Apply de-icing products.

Most de-icing agents can be destructive when applied to paver patio surfaces. Salt can easily corrode the material and cause damage that may ultimately require a patio installation expert to assess. And when salt and snow mix, the salt can seep into the paving material and freeze all over again. This will cause expansion, which will lead to slow structural damage to the stones.

 

As the leading source for property maintenance and landscape design in Dayton, OH, Lawn Innovations takes great pride in treating your home with care and respect. For both residential and commercial landscaping projects, they can create innovative designs that bring your vision to life. Whether it’s the addition of a new paver patio or an elegant fire pit, they can assist. If you’re simply interested in hiring someone for lawn maintenance, you can trust them, too. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings or call them at (937) 626-0406.