As a homeowner in the Pacific Northwest, you are most likely quite acquainted with the diversity that the winter months bring. From mild temperatures to sudden freezes, as well as snow, hail, and rain, it can keep you guessing what might be coming next.
If you have a hardscape installed in your yard, you also know that it can be challenging to know what to do in the various types of weather that come through the winter. In this blog post, we will look at things you can do to ensure your pavers are well-protected through the chilly months.
The first thing to do is prepare your pavers well before winter arrives.
As the days begin to cool, take the time to thoroughly inspect your pavers. Check for cracks, unevenness, and other signs of wear and tear so that you can address them while you have time.
Do the work to remove all the dirt and debris from your pavers before it has a chance to freeze. Address any stains with a stain remover such as Surebond Oil Extractor so that they do not worsen in the winter weather.
Once your pavers are clean, apply a paver sealant. Sealing your pavers protects against the increased moisture and any freeze-thaw cycles or potential salt damage.
Now that your pavers are ready for the winter, how can you maintain them once the cold weather arrives?
The most obvious thing you should prioritize after the onset of winter is removing the snow and ice that builds up. If you use a snow shovel, try to avoid a metal one as it can damage the pavers. At the least, only use a metal shovel to break up ice and then scoop it off with a regular snow shovel. You can also safely use a snow blower if you have one.
Other options for removing ice from your pavers include using a liquid or granule de-icing material. Make sure to use a product that does not contain sodium chloride, calcium chloride, or Magnesium Acetate, as these ingredients can be harmful to you and your pets and potentially damage the pavers themselves.
Another option for ice removal is to prevent it from building up completely by installing heated pavers. You can use electric matting or PEX pipes underneath your pavers. Click here to read our blog post and learn more about safely de-icing your pavers.
Along with regularly removing the snow and ice that builds up on your hardscape, routinely inspecting it can prevent long-term damage. If you do find any damage to your pavers, quickly address it to prevent ongoing problems.
One of the best ways to protect your pavers is to think long-term and initially invest in high-quality pavers. Well-crafted pavers last longer and more easily resist the extreme elements of winter weather.
The installation can also impact the longevity of your hardscape. Implementing techniques like installing a proper paver base and using polymeric sand in the paver joints can go a long way in making sure your pavers last.
Consider hiring a professional maintenance service to care for your pavers. Professionals often have the expertise and skill to ensure your hardscape is cared for and lasts as long as possible.
With careful preparation, it is more than possible to have a hardscape that looks beautiful and lasts even through the winter months. If you want expert help planning your paver project, download our Project Planning Guide.
Choosing a paver can sure feel overwhelming. You have to consider size, style, thickness, color, and more. That’s why we made a short and simple quiz that asks a few questions about what you’re looking for and, at the end, provides a recommendation, or two, you can start with.
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