Prepare your patio for winter the right way!
Winter is upon us. In January, you’re likely to see snow in Maryland and might even be seeing some flakes falling on your neighbor’s roof right now. If you have a patio of any kind, you will want to make sure it’s in great shape for the winter season. Here are some winter patio care tips to remember before and during a Maryland winter.
Patio Maintenance Tips for Before Winter
Sweep the Patio
It is likely a no-brainer–sometimes, you will need to sweep the patio to get dirt and debris off of it. Remove dirt, sand, dead branches, and fall leaves from your patio as necessary. If you don’t like using brooms, try a leaf blower.
Wash the Patio
Washing the patio will clean it more thoroughly than sweeping alone. You can use a pressure washer to blast off dirt; just be sure to keep it at an appropriate setting to avoid damage. Alternatively, you can use a long-handled, stiff-bristled brush and warm, soapy water to remove dirt and stains. Consider a commercial or homemade detergent for stains on your patio.
Seal the Patio
When the patio is fully clean and dry, it’s a great idea to seal the patio once every few years. A sealant will protect the patio materials from water damage and stains. All patio materials, such as concrete, brick, and natural stone, are porous, and benefit from the protection.
Repair as Necessary
Does your patio have cracked or uneven pieces? It is possible to repair pavers, but if the damage is too great, they are easy to replace. If the patio on the whole is uneven and damaged, consider calling Freedom Fence and Deck for a new patio! We build concrete, brick, and flagstone patios, just to name a few.
Deicing the Patio
When winter storms hit Maryland, whether mild or severe, it’s a good idea to lay down some salt or an alternate deicer to lower the freezing point of the snow or ice. To add traction to your patio, add a thin and even layer of sand, non-clumping kitty litter, or wood ash.
Shoveling Snow
Never use a metal-edged snow shovel on your patio! Opt for a plastic or rubber-tipped snow shovel for the best results.
Upgrade Your Home and Reach Out to Freedom Fence Today
Whether you want a brand new patio in the spring or want to install a beautiful new wood fence, Freedom Fence and Home has the expertise, competitive prices, and professional service you need. Freedom Fence and Home has over 50 years of fencing experience in the Baltimore County area, Harford County, Essex, White Marsh, and Bel Air area, and we pride ourselves on giving our customers the best customer service experience possible. To see examples of our work and pick the right backyard feature for your home, explore our website. To get started on planning your project, give us a call at (443) 271-6841, or visit us online. For more information, tips, and updates about Freedom Fence and Home, follow us on Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook.