Winter in Highlands Ranch, Parker, Castle Rock, Englewood, and surrounding areas can be tough on outdoor surfaces. If you have a patio, walkway, or driveway, freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause cracks, stains, and shifting that impact both the look and safety of your space. The good news is that with the proper preparation and upkeep, you can keep your hardscape in top shape throughout the colder months.

If you're concerned about winter damage and prefer a professional's touch, contact us for an assessment of your hardscape. You can reach us at (303) 586-7262 or through our online contact form.

Winter’s Impact on Hardscapes

In our climate, the main threat to hardscapes isn’t just the cold. It’s the constant shift between freezing and thawing. When water seeps into the small cracks and pores of materials like concrete or pavers, it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts immense pressure on the surrounding material, which can cause existing cracks to widen and new ones to form. When the ice thaws, the water seeps even deeper, and the cycle repeats, slowly but surely deteriorating the surface. This is what's known as the freeze-thaw cycle, and it’s the primary reason many hardscapes show wear and tear after a harsh winter.

The weight of accumulated snow and ice can also put stress on a hardscape's foundation. Over time, this can cause pavers to shift or sink, leading to uneven surfaces and potential tripping hazards. Proper winter care is not just about aesthetics; it's also about maintaining a safe and functional outdoor space.

Choose Safe De-icers and Avoid Salt

Many homeowners turn to rock salt and chemical de-icers to keep their walkways and patios clear. While effective at melting ice, these products can be a homeowner's worst enemy when it comes to hardscape protection.

Corrosive Effects: Salt is highly corrosive. It can eat away at the surface of concrete and mortar, causing pitting and flaking. This not only looks bad but also weakens the material, making it more vulnerable to the freeze-thaw cycle.
Staining and Discoloration: The white, chalky residue left behind by many de-icers can be difficult to remove and often leads to permanent staining, particularly on natural stone and certain types of pavers.
Environmental Impact: Runoff from salted surfaces can harm surrounding plants and grass, contaminating the soil and making it difficult for vegetation to thrive in the spring.

The best approach is to be selective about what you use. Consider products labeled as "concrete-safe" or "paver-friendly," which are typically calcium chloride or magnesium chloride-based. Even with these safer options, it’s best to use them sparingly and clear away the slush promptly.

Master the Art of Snow Removal

When the snow starts to fall, how you remove it is just as important as when. Shoveling or using a snow blower incorrectly can cause damage to your hardscape. To avoid chipping or scratching your surfaces, follow these guidelines:

Use the Right Tools: Opt for a plastic shovel with a plastic or rubber edge instead of a metal one. Metal blades can easily scrape and damage the surface of your patio pavers or concrete walkways.
Be Gentle with Snow Blowers: If you use a snow blower, adjust the skid plates so the auger blade is raised slightly above the hardscape surface. This prevents the metal blade from hitting the material directly, which can cause chips or scratches.
Avoid Piling Snow on the Hardscape: Don’t pile snow on top of your patio or walkway. When the sun hits the pile, the melting water will seep into the ground underneath, freeze, and then expand, causing the ground to heave and potentially shifting your pavers.

After a snowfall, remove the snow as soon as possible. Allowing heavy snow to sit for extended periods increases the stress on your hardscape and contributes to a greater risk of water infiltration during warm-ups.

Consider Sealing Your Hardscape for Added Protection

One of the most effective long-term strategies for protecting your hardscape is to have it properly sealed. A professional sealant creates a protective barrier that prevents water from penetrating the material's pores. A good-quality sealant offers several key benefits for your hardscape:

Water Repellence: It acts as a waterproof shield, blocking water from getting into the material and minimizing the effects of the freeze-thaw cycle.
Stain Resistance: A sealant makes it much harder for stains from de-icers, fallen leaves, or other winter debris to set into the surface.
Enhanced Durability: It strengthens the surface, making it more resistant to erosion and wear from foot traffic and environmental exposure.

If your hardscape has never been sealed or several years since it was last sealed, late fall is the perfect time to consider this service. It’s an investment that significantly extends the lifespan and beauty of your patio or walkway.

Perform a Pre-Winter Hardscape Inspection

Before the first freeze, take a moment to perform a simple inspection of your hardscape. Look for any existing cracks, loose pavers, or signs of wear. Addressing these small issues now can prevent them from becoming major problems later. If you find any significant damage, it's best to have a professional assess the situation before winter sets in.

Partner with Local Professionals for Peace of Mind

Properly maintaining a hardscape through a Colorado winter requires attention to detail and knowledge of the right techniques. While this guide provides the necessary steps, entrusting your property to experts gives you peace of mind that your investment is fully protected. Our team at JRM Landscape understands the unique challenges of our local climate and has the expertise to ensure your patios and walkways are ready to face the coldest months.

Connect with us for a consultation. We aim to help you maintain a beautiful and functional outdoor space all year round. Visit our online contact form or call us at (303) 586-7262 to schedule a discussion about your hardscape needs.