As the temperatures drop and frost sets in, your outdoor spaces need a little extra care to stay functional and looking their best. Cold weather can take a toll on patios, driveways, walkways, and retaining walls, so proper maintenance is important to protect them. If you’re not sure how to handle it yourself, consider reaching out to one of the expert hardscape companies in Decatur or nearby. Taking the right steps now can help ensure your hardscape stays in great shape all winter long.
What is hardscape maintenance?
The hardscape in your yard isn’t just functional – it’s a big part of what makes your outdoor space unique. However, these non-living elements are vulnerable to winter damage.
Common hardscape elements include:
- Paved walkways and patios
- Retaining walls
- Stone or brick driveways
- Outdoor kitchens and fire pits
Harsh winter conditions can wreak havoc on your hardscape, but with a few simple maintenance steps, you can avoid costly damage. Protect your investment by sealing surfaces, tackling drainage problems, and keeping your outdoor areas debris-free.
How to prep your hardscapes for winter?
Getting your hardscape and surrounding landscaping ready for winter means taking a few simple steps. Here’s what to focus on:
1. Clean your hardscape
- Sweep and Power Wash: Remove dirt, leaves, and debris that can trap moisture and promote mold or stains.
- Treat Stains Promptly: Use appropriate cleaning solutions for oil or rust stains to prevent permanent discoloration.
2. Seal the surface
- Apply a Protective Sealant: A high-quality sealant prevents water from seeping into cracks, freezing, and expanding, which can cause serious damage.
- Check for Wear: If your hardscape was sealed in previous years, inspect the seal for wear and reapply as necessary.
3. Repair Cracks and Gaps
- Fill Small Cracks: Address minor imperfections before they become larger, more costly issues.
- Re-sand Paver Joints: Use polymeric sand to fill gaps between pavers and prevent weeds or moisture intrusion.
4. Redirect Water Flow
- Clean Gutters and Drains: Ensure water flows away from hardscape surfaces to avoid pooling and freezing.
- Check Drainage Systems: Make sure your hardscape is designed to handle runoff effectively.
5. Remove Snow and Ice Safely
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use pet- and hardscape-safe de-icing products to prevent surface damage.
- Shovel with Care: Use plastic or rubber-edged tools to avoid scratching your pavers or stonework.
Why is professional help necessary?
While some aspects of hardscape maintenance can be tackled as DIY projects, hiring a professional offers many advantages. Here are just some of them:
1. Expertise and equipment
Professionals bring both expertise and the right equipment to handle essential tasks like power washing, sealing, and addressing cracks. They ensure the work is done thoroughly and more efficiently than the average homeowner might.
2. Prevent costly mistakes
Improper application of sealants or the wrong choice of de-icing products can lead to damage. Experts ensure that every step is done correctly to protect your investment.
3. Comprehensive inspections
A true expert has the skills to uncover hidden problems, like subtle drainage issues or unnoticed structural weaknesses, addressing them before they lead to significant and expensive damage.
4. Time savings
Winterizing your hardscape takes time and effort, but leaving it to professionals ensures everything is done right. Let them take the hassle off your plate, giving you more time to enjoy the season with family and friends.
5. Peace of mind
Professional maintenance can do wonders for your hardscape – keeping it looking sharp and lasting longer, which is ultimately easier on your wallet.
What is one of the best hardscaping companies in Decatur & the region?
Freezing temperatures don’t have to be a threat to your outdoor spaces. With the right maintenance steps and a little professional help, you can keep your hardscape in great condition, no matter how harsh the winter gets.
That’s where Classy Grass comes in. Our Decatur team will design a detailed plan that aligns perfectly with your requirements and the unique aspects of your outdoor area, keeping it well-protected and visually appealing. Feel free to reach out and let us keep your outdoor spaces secure during the colder months.