Winter in the Midwest can be a challenging season for outdoor spaces, especially for paved walkways and stone landscaping. Snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures can wreak havoc on these surfaces, leading to cracks, discoloration, and structural damage. With proper care and maintenance, however, you can protect your investment and ensure your landscaping remains beautiful year-round. Consult with a landscaping professional if you have doubt and need further help with proper maintenance and care.
Apply a High-Quality Sealant
Before winter arrives, it’s essential to seal your paved walkways and stone surfaces. A high-quality sealant acts as a protective barrier, preventing moisture from seeping into the material. When water enters cracks or porous surfaces and freezes, it expands, leading to damage. Sealing in the fall helps mitigate this risk and prolongs the life of your hardscaping.
Clear Snow Regularly and Carefully
Snow removal is unavoidable in Midwest winters, but how you remove it can significantly impact your walkways and stone landscaping. Use a plastic snow shovel or a snowblower with rubber blades to avoid scratching or chipping the surface. Shovel frequently during heavy snowfall to prevent ice buildup, which can be harder to remove without causing damage.
What to Do and Not to Do When Clearing Snow
What to Do:
· Shovel snow as soon as possible after it falls to prevent compaction and ice formation.
· Use a snowblower with rubber blades for minimal impact on surfaces.
· Push snow rather than lifting it whenever possible to avoid unnecessary strain.
What Not to Do:
· Avoid using metal shovels, as they can scratch or chip the surface.
· Never pour hot water on icy surfaces; it can refreeze and worsen the problem.
· Don’t use heavy snow removal equipment unless it’s specifically designed for use on stone or paved areas.
Choose Deicers Wisely
Deicing is often necessary for safety, but traditional rock salt can erode concrete, discolor natural stone, and harm surrounding plants. Opt for deicers labeled as safe for use on stone and paved surfaces, such as calcium magnesium acetate. For additional traction, consider using sand, which doesn’t pose a chemical risk to your landscaping.
Promote Proper Drainage
Water is one of the biggest threats to paved and stone surfaces in the winter. Ensure that gutters, downspouts, and drains direct water away from your walkways and patios. Standing water that freezes can create uneven surfaces and cracks. Regularly check drainage systems and clear any blockages caused by leaves, snow, or ice.
Inspect and Repair Before Winter
Small cracks or loose pavers can worsen during freeze-thaw cycles. Inspect your hardscaping in late fall and address any issues promptly. Filling gaps with weather-resistant caulk or repairing minor cracks prevents water infiltration and extends the longevity of your surfaces.
Avoid Heavy Equipment and Traffic
Minimize the use of heavy vehicles or machinery on paved areas during winter. The added weight combined with freeze-thaw stress can weaken the structure of your hardscaping. If you must drive or park on these surfaces, do so sparingly and ensure proper reinforcement beneath.
Protect Edges and Borders
The edges of walkways and patios are particularly vulnerable to damage during snow removal. Avoid piling snow directly on edges, as the weight can cause shifting or cracks. Instead, distribute snow evenly across open areas or move it to a designated snow pile away from your hardscaping.
Consider a Professional Assessment
If you’re unsure about the condition of your paved walkways or stone landscaping, consult a professional. They can recommend the best sealants, deicers, and repair techniques for your specific materials and climate.
· Winter Maintenance Checklist
· Apply a protective sealant in late fall.
· Shovel snow frequently using a plastic or rubber-edged tool.
· Use stone-safe deicers or sand for traction.
· Check and clear drainage systems regularly.
· Inspect for cracks or damage and repair as needed.
· Avoid heavy equipment on paved surfaces.
· Protect edges from snow pile-up.
By following these steps, you can safeguard your paved walkways and stone landscaping against the harsh Midwest winters. Proper maintenance not only preserves their beauty but also ensures their safety and functionality for years to come.
Looking for winter maintenance or thinking about adding a stone patio, paved walkway, or retaining wall on your property in the Spring? Call Barrow Landscapes at 309-370-6299. Our experts can help!
We service Metamora, Germantown Hills, Peoria, East Peoria, Washington, Morton and surrounding areas. Contact Barrow Landscapes for all your landscaping needs.
Barrow Landscapes offers Hardscapes including Paver Walkways, Retaining Walls, Paver Patios to Softscapes including landscape plantings, lawn install and repair, and privacy plantings. Barrow Landscapes also offers landscape lighting and 2D and 3D landscape designs so their clients’ can visualize their dream landscapes with unparalleled clarity and confidence, making informed decisions bringing outdoor visions to life.
Call Barrow Landscapes at 309-370.6299 or visit BarrowLandscapes.com. Give us a call today or contact us to get your landscape visions started.
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