Whether you’re a gardening novice or a seasoned pro, it’s well known that dropping temperatures can pose a threat to our outdoor spaces. In fact, searches for ‘planning a winter garden’ have skyrocketed by a whopping 2,186 percent this year alone.
However, Andy McLaughlin, a landscaping specialist at RF Paving, believes there’s no better time than now to start preparing the garden for the winter months. This is particularly pertinent as the Met Office has issued a 43-hour snow warning for certain parts of the UK this week.
He has shared his top tips for prepping for the colder weather, including why it’s crucial for homeowners to check their garden paving. Inspecting any paving joints If you have a paved area in your garden, inspecting the joints will give you an idea if they’re ready for another winter, or if they need replacing before the cold weather sets in.
If the joints are cracked or dislodged, then it’s worth considering replacing the jointing compound. Some compounds may be repairable by just removing the affected area, while others may require the entire jointing compound to be removed and replaced.
Neglecting to repair or replace damaged jointing compound can, in severe cases, lead to the paving needing to be replaced. If water seeps underneath the paving, and the bed of the paving isn’t permeable, reports the Express.
If water seeps underneath the paving, and the bed of the paving isn’t permeable (lets water soak through), then this can cause what is known as ‘frost heave’.
Frost heave is a common occurrence in frosty conditions, due to the freeze-thaw process. When water seeps through damaged joints and becomes trapped within the pores of the mortar bed, it freezes in cold temperatures.
As this trapped water thaws in relatively milder temperatures, it expands. Since this pressure has nowhere to go other than the weakest point, it often forces upwards, causing the mortar bed to ‘fail’, lifting the paving and potentially leading to the whole paved area needing replacement.
As icy weather sets in, it can wreak havoc on gardens. The freezing and thawing process poses a threat to any stone foundations, but thorough cleaning of all paving and stonework before the temperature drops can help mitigate this.
Mould, mildew and other fungi that have discoloured the paving tend to worsen during winter. Start by cleaning the paving surface and treating it with sand, which is a cheaper and less damaging alternative to rock salt
.
This will ensure good traction on the surface, and correctly fill any cracks and gaps. If possible, consider using a sealant for further protection of your paving.
Leaving leaves and foliage on paving can lead to them decomposing and leaving a residue that is often very difficult to remove, or in some cases, cause irreversible damage.
Particularly with natural stone paving, the residue can seep into the surface of the stone. Porcelain paving is somewhat more resistant to staining, but stubborn marks may require extra care.
To maintain the garden and paved areas in top condition through the winter months, it’s crucial to keep these areas clean and tidy. Regularly removing leaves, debris and fallen foliage will minimise the risk of damage, staining or creating a slip hazard.
Regular cleaning of hard surfaces not only maintains their appearance but also prevents the accumulation of dirt, algae, and moss. If paving isn’t kept clean, it could become slippery and hazardous.
Even though exterior porcelain should have a slip-resistant surface, this feature won’t be effective unless the surface is kept clean.