If you have a patio, you know what a great place it is to relax, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the outdoors to their fullest extent. During the coldest months of the year, however, it’s crucial to maintain the surface so that it’s ready for springtime use. From proper snow removal techniques to investigating the drainage system, here’s what you need to know to keep your patio in excellent shape come spring.

How to Maintain Your Patio in the Winter

1. Handle Repairs Promptly

Take a look at the condition of the surface. If your patio is made with pavers,  make sure there are no significant gaps or cracks in the joints. Those provide the ideal environment for moisture to seep inside. When the ground goes through its natural freeze-thaw cycle, the ice expands and causes movement. This can force pavers to thrust upward, making it unsafe to walk on the patio. It will also make snow removal more challenging in the future if the issue is widespread across the surface. An experienced hardscaping contractor can remove the damaged pieces and reinstall new pavers.

2. Clean It Thoroughly

It’s best to clean your patio year-round to ensure that it consistently remains in great shape. However, before the first snowfall of the season, make sure to sweep it thoroughly and remove any leaves or debris that might have lingered from autumn. When it snows, be mindful of your snow removal methods. Avoid scraping a shovel across the surface, which can damage planking and compromise seal coating. In general, it’s safer for the material if you just let the snow melt, since attempting to remove snow or ice could result in additional damage. If it’s possible, push the snow off with a broom.

3. Improve Patio Drainage

Improper drainage can cause significant issues when the moisture from the roof directly trickles onto the patio. It can cause the surface to be consistently coated in ice, or it can cause concrete or pavers to crack when rain or snow melt, thaw, and melt again on the surface of the patio. If the structure is not pitched correctly to direct runoff away, your landscaping contractor can create an improved system by designing a sloped channel filled with gravel. This is an easy way to mitigate water damage that might develop during the colder months.
 

Homeowners throughout La Crosse, WI, can trust in the highly qualified landscaping contractors at Tom’s Bobcat & Snowplowing for all of their winter patio maintenance needs. Their company provides a wide range of services, including residential and commercial snow removal and driveway repairs. They can also supply materials like gravel, topsoil, and black dirt. Visit them online for information, or call them at (608) 785-1888 today to speak with a representative.