How To Winter-Proof Your Patio This Season
Although winter is not necessarily the time for outdoor activities, your work in the garden is not done yet. This season can be difficult for many of us, and our gardens are no exception. To ensure that your outdoor space remains safe and attractive in the harshest weather conditions, preparation is needed.
One area that often needs to be addressed during this time is the patio. The patio may be your main hub for entertaining and dining during the summer, but it gets ignored in the winter, which can lead to permanent damage.
To ensure that you have an attractive, safe garden to return to next year, S&D Paving are sharing some of our top tips to winter-proof your patio and prevent damage from the cold weather.
Top Tips To Winter-Proof Your Patio
To keep your garden safe this season, you will need to winter-proof your patio and make sure the surface will survive the cold weather conditions of the next few months.
The best care you can deliver to your patio may vary based on its size, location and material but the following are great ways to give it a standing chance and make sure you have something to return to once the weather warms up.
Seal And Protect
One of the best tips to winter-proof your patio is sealing the surface, as this gives it the best chance at withstanding all the harsh weather winter has to offer. There are all kinds of sealants available, based on the type of patio you have, which allows you to deliver the precise care your landscape needs.
Patio sealants are vital for all kinds of surfaces as they protect the surface from moisture, frost and cracking which can occur during the season. However, this set is especially important for those with natural stone or block paved patios, as sealants will prevent water absorption which can lead to cracking or movement of the stones.
Repair Cracks Early
When sealing the patio or cleaning the space, take some time to inspect the surface to see whether there is any damage. This should be an ongoing routine during the winter, as cracks will need to be repaired immediately to prevent further damage.
If you do notice any cracks or gaps in the surface, instant repairs are the best way to winter-proof your patio as these can easily get worse. Cracks can deepen and become wider if water gets in and freezes with the cold temperature of the season, which is why immediate action is required.
Ensure Proper Drainage
If your patio has been installed by experts, like those at S&D Paving, then drainage does not have to be an issue. However, it is a good idea to ensure your patio has good drainage ahead of the harshest winter weather, which means no standing water is left behind after rain or snow.
If standing water is present on your patio, then additional work will be needed to ensure better drainage which can prevent freezing, slipping and cracking. It is safer for your landscape to get the drainage repaired now, which can involve unblocking drains or potentially adding a slope to the patio for better water runoff.
Keep Patio Clear
It will be easier to keep track of any drainage issues or cracking if your patio is kept clear, which is why regular cleaning is a key method to winter-proof your patio. Regularly removing debris, such as fallen leaves and dirt, from the patio not only keeps the space looking neat but also makes it easier for you to check for damage.
As we have mentioned, the earlier repairs get done, the better during the winter. Keeping your patio clear throughout the season will make this easier to achieve and prevent permanent damage from taking place.
Winter-Proof Your Patio Furniture
During the winter, all patio furniture and decor should be stored away in a dry place. Leaving items exposed to the elements can cause damage, rusting and discolouration preventing them from being useful next summer. Placing items in a garden shed or garage is the best method to winter-proof your patio, but this is not your only option.
If you are short on storage space or have excessively heavy patio furniture that cannot be moved, covering and securing them will be sufficient. Using specialised furniture covers or waterproof material, like tarpaulin, can be a great way to keep your furniture safe during the season. Make sure you are also securing the furniture in place tp prevent movement during winter storms.
Consider a Patio Cover or Shelter
If you are particularly worried about your patio or are dealing with upcoming storms, it may be a good idea to invest in patio covers or shelters. Temporary covers, awnings or even gazebos – when properly secured – can help keep your patio safe this season, preventing weather damage from impacting the surface.
How To Stay Prepared This Winter
These tips to winter-proof your patio can go a long way in securing the safety and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space this season. Doing all the work you can early in the season can help protect your patio well into the new year.
Although sealing and repairing the patio can offer long-term benefits, it is recommended for you to continue checking on your patio during the season. Additional layers of protection may be needed based on the curren weather conditions, and it is a good idea to continue your maintenance as much as possible when the weather is suitable.
To continue your work and winter-proof your patio as the season progresses, make sure you have plenty of stock of sealant and de-icers available. These will help you remove any debris, snow or frost from the patio following cold weather and keep providing the surface with the additional protection it needs.
Using a plastic shovel is the best method to de-ice patios, as this is unlikely to cause damage to the surface but will successfully loosen and remove snow or ice when needed.
Conclusion
With these top tips, it is easier than you may have thought to winter-proof your patio and ensure you have a safe, attractive space to return to in spring.
Winter-proofing the patio can also help to save time and money in the long run, as prevention is always better than cure. The work you do now can prolong the life of your patio, prevent damage and ensure it looks attractive come the new year.
At S&D Paving, we offer a range of paving and patio services to help our clients make the best out of their gardens. We can offer services to winter-proof your patio and keep the space safe this season.
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