As temperatures drop and the weather turns damp, patios across South East England face increased wear and tear. Whether you’ve recently had a patio installed by Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd or your outdoor space has been in place for years, it’s important to give it the care it needs during the colder months.
Winter is the season where neglected patios can become slippery, stained, or even structurally compromised. The good news is that with a little preparation and maintenance, you can protect your investment and keep your patio looking its best all year round.
In this post, we share expert tips to help you preserve your patio through the winter.
1. Clear Away Leaves, Moss and Debris
Leaves, twigs, and organic matter that collect on your patio will quickly retain moisture and promote moss and algae growth. This not only makes your patio look untidy but also creates a slippery surface that can become hazardous in icy conditions.
Use a stiff-bristled broom to sweep your patio regularly throughout winter, and consider trimming back overhanging branches to reduce the amount of debris that falls.
2. Jet Wash with Caution
A pressure washer can be a great way to clean patios, but use it with care during the winter. Blasting water at high pressure onto already cold or frosty paving can damage the surface or force water into joints and cracks where it may freeze and expand.
If you do jet wash your patio, choose a mild day and make sure the surface has time to dry properly. Avoid dislodging jointing sand if you have a block or slabbed surface, and reseal or repoint any joints if necessary.
3. Remove Moss and Algae Safely
Slippery surfaces are a common winter problem. Moss and algae thrive in damp, shaded conditions—often found on patios that don’t receive much winter sunlight.
Specialist patio cleaning products are available to help remove moss and prevent regrowth. Choose a treatment that’s suitable for your patio material (whether it’s natural stone, concrete, or porcelain) and apply on a dry day for the best results.
At Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd, we’re happy to advise on suitable treatments or even carry out professional patio cleaning if needed.
4. Protect Your Patio Furniture and Accessories
If you keep garden furniture, planters, or decorations on your patio year-round, now is the time to either cover or store them. Constant exposure to rain, wind and frost can damage furniture and leave marks or rust stains on the paving beneath.
Use weatherproof covers or move items into a shed or garage for the winter. This not only prolongs the life of your furniture but also reduces the risk of scratching or discolouring your patio.
5. Check for Drainage Issues
Pooling water on your patio is a sign that drainage may be inadequate—or that leaves and debris are blocking outlets. During winter, standing water can freeze and cause damage to both the paving and the sub-base beneath.
Ensure your drainage channels are clear and that water flows freely away from the surface. If you’ve experienced persistent water issues, now is a good time to contact a professional for advice on improvements before spring arrives.
6. Seal and Protect the Surface
Many types of patio surfaces benefit from being sealed. A quality sealant acts as a barrier against moisture, frost, stains and algae. This is especially important for porous surfaces like sandstone, limestone or concrete.
Sealing is best done during dry periods with above-freezing temperatures, so December may still offer the right window if applied correctly. If not, planning to seal in early spring after a winter clean is another good option.
7. Inspect and Repair Before Spring
Winter is a great time to spot issues such as loose slabs, cracked joints, or uneven surfaces—especially after periods of heavy rain or frost. Addressing these early means you’ll avoid bigger problems down the line and ensure your patio is safe and functional once the warmer weather returns.
Whether you need a few repairs or a full patio refurbishment, Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd can help keep your outdoor space in excellent condition.
Prepare Your Patio for Winter with Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd
A well-maintained patio adds year-round value to your home, even in the depths of winter. With the right care and attention, you can prevent damage, reduce hazards, and preserve the beauty of your garden space.
If your patio needs a professional clean, repair or complete makeover, our expert team operates across South East England and provides reliable, high-quality paving and landscaping services tailored to your home.
