Use plastic shovels to remove snow from your patio to avoid damaging your pavers.
As the cold sets in, you may find yourself less inclined to use your outdoor patio space or care for your landscaping features. If these features are covered in snow, ice or other debris, an “out of sight out of mind” mindset is going to do more damage in the long run than you are probably realizing. During winter in Maryland, we experience varying temperatures that can greatly damage your patio pavers. By preventing or fixing patio problems in a timely manner during the winter, your patio will be able to withstand the test of time. So, how do you do it?
Snow and Ice
The most important task in maintaining the health of your patio during the winter months is to regularly clear it of snow and ice. While patio materials like stone, concrete and brick are generally strong and very durable – snow and ice can compromise their condition. When temperatures rise above the freezing point, snow and ice thaw and became liquid water. This cycle of freezing and thawing allows water to seep into the cracks and pores of your patio pavers. When freezing temperatures strike again, that water will freeze and expand, creating pressure that leads to cracks and pores in your patio. If left untreated, the cracks will worsen with each cycle as winter weather accumulates. Clearing your patio of snow after each storm can prevent the cycle.
Tools
When you are clearing your patio of snow and ice, be sure not to use shovels with metal edges blades (unless they have rubber edges). These shovels can scrape and chip your patio pavers. Instead, use a plastic snow shovel. If ice is your main concern, consult your patio paver supplier before using salt or deicing chemicals. Salt and other deicing chemicals can be damaging for concrete and natural stone. Sand and cat litter are safe alternatives for increased safety and traction when handling ice.
Check Up
Above all, keep an eye out for any cracks and shifts during the winter. The freezing and thawing process can affect the ground beneath the pavers. Make sure your patio is consistently level, and replace broken pavers immediately before they do more damage to surrounding pavers.
Lehnhoff’s Landscaping can Help With Winter Maintenance for Your Patio
If your patio or other hardscaping is too large and the strain too much, or if you don’t have the time, Lehnhoff’s Landscaping is here to help. We provide professional snow removal and landscaping services for all of Maryland. Our teams of snow removal experts manage everything from plowing, to shoveling, to ice scraping. We have years and years of experience in removing snow from patios, parking lots, roads and sidewalks – as well as salting and ice melting.
Our snow removal plans and planting services will ensure that no matter what time of year it is, your property will be stunning and safe. If you have any more questions about snow removal in Baltimore, contact Lehnhoff’s Landscaping by Calling 443.921.5789 or visit LehnoffsLandscaping.com today!
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