Winter is no time to leave your hardscaping features out in the cold—literally! Imagine investing in a gorgeous patio or retaining wall only to have it crack, shift, or stain because it wasn’t properly prepped for the season. Here are the steps to keep your outdoor investments looking pristine through hardscaping maintenance:
- Seal Before the Freeze – Picture this: your pavers are like your favorite pair of hiking boots—tough but better with waterproofing. Sealing before winter keeps moisture out and prevents cracks caused by freezing and thawing cycles. Think of it as giving your hardscapes a cozy winter coat!
- Clear Snow Promptly – Snow may look magical, but it’s no friend to your patio. Shoveling with a plastic blade (to avoid scratches) and removing ice buildup can prevent damage. Pro tip: skip the metal shovels.
- De-Icing Done Right – Not all de-icers are created equal. Avoid rock salt, which can be harsh on surfaces, and opt for calcium magnesium acetate instead. It’s effective, less corrosive, and keeps your pavers from looking like they lost a snowball fight.
- Inspect for Cracks and Movement – Winter weather can expose minor flaws, so walk your property and look for shifts, cracks, or loose stones. Catching these early means easy fixes instead of expensive repairs come spring.
- Drainage Check-Up – Water pooling near hardscapes? That’s trouble brewing. Ensure drainage systems are clear and functioning to avoid soil erosion or water damage. Your retaining wall will thank you!
Your hardscapes work hard all year long—treat them right this winter with intentional hardscaping maintenance and they’ll keep turning heads next season. Ready for professional hardscaping maintenance? Contact ProScapes today to get started and learn about our winter services!