Many homeowners spend time near the pool, on the deck, or on the patio during the warmer months. However, it’s essential to check concrete structures, including the patio and walkways, since their condition will impact how much you enjoy your outdoor living this summer. A crumbling patio may not support furniture, and cracked walkways can pose a tripping hazard to family members. Below are three items to look for when you inspect your patio and walkways.

3 Features to Look For in Your Patio & Walkways

1. Cracks

Make sure to look for cracks—even hairline ones—as water can seep in and weaken the patio’s structure. Larger cracks or loose pavers may even make the surface unsafe to walk on. Look for any weeds emerging through the cracks or directly around the edges of the surface. To prevent an infestation, it’s best to spray them with a weed killer or pull them by the roots. If the weeds keep regrowing, consult a lawn maintenance team, as they’ll use effective methods to remove the pesky plants.

2. Overall Aesthetics

Take a step back and look at your patio and walkways. Consider bringing a friend or neighbor in for a set of fresh eyes, and discuss whether the structures are appealing to look at. A high-quality patio or walkway should add to the beauty of your landscape design, rather than simply being a functional surface for standing. This will help you determine whether you want to refinish or replace the surface.

3. Dirt

As dirt slowly accumulates, it changes the surface’s color and makes it appear grimy. To test if your patio and walkways have dirt accumulation, take a scrub brush and dip it in water, then pick a spot and start scrubbing. If there is a visible difference in the spot you just cleaned, then your surfaces are due for a cleaning. You can powerwash the patio to restore its shine. If the dirt is years—or decades—old, then it’s best to refinish the patio.

Once you have inspected your patio and walkways, contact A to Z Property Maintenance in Brookfield, CT. This lawn care service provides an array of services—from mulching garden beds to installing patios—to residents across Fairfield County. Their professional landscapers will handle all your maintenance for you, keeping both your hardscaping and landscaping in beautiful condition. To browse their services, visit their website or call (203) 775-9174 to discuss an estimate.