As winter approaches, your outdoor hardscaping — whether pavers, natural stone, or other surfaces — face the challenges of cold weather, snow, and ice. The freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, and de-icing chemicals can cause significant damage if you don’t take proper precautions. Protecting your investment is key to maintaining its appearance and ensuring its longevity, so this guide highlights some ways that you can prepare your hardscaping for winter, no matter where you live.

1. Clean and Inspect Your Hardscaping

Before the cold sets in, thoroughly clean and inspect your outdoor surfaces.

• Remove Debris: Sweep away leaves, dirt, and any organic material. When these materials trap moisture, it can freeze, leading to cracks or erosion in your pavers or stone.
• Pressure Wash: A good pressure wash will remove built-up grime, helping prevent slippery surfaces and stopping water from pooling in low areas, which can freeze and expand.
• Check for Damage: Inspect your pavers or stone for cracks, uneven surfaces, or loose stones. Winter weather can worsen existing damage, so repair cracks and fill gaps before freezing temperatures arrive.

2. Seal Pavers and Natural Stone

Sealing your hardscaping is one of the best ways to protect it from winter’s harsh elements. Both pavers and natural stone are porous, allowing water to seep in. When this water freezes, it expands and can cause cracks.

• Use the Right Sealer: Select a high-quality sealer suitable for your specific materials, whether pavers, natural stone, or concrete. Some sealers also enhance the color of your stone, giving it an extra aesthetic boost while providing protection.
• Apply and Reapply: Sealers don’t last forever and will need reapplication every 1 to 3 years. A properly sealed surface helps repel water, preventing damage from ice and de-icing salts.

3. Managing Freeze-Thaw Cycles

In cold climates, freeze-thaw cycles are a leading cause of damage to hardscaping. As temperatures fluctuate, water that has seeped into cracks and joints freezes, expands, and pushes materials apart, leading to cracking and shifting.

• Ensure Proper Drainage: Make sure that water is draining away from your hardscaping. Standing water can cause significant problems once it freezes, so check that your patio or walkway has a slight slope and that all drains are clear of debris.
• Use Polymeric Sand: For paver surfaces, using polymeric sand between the joints can help prevent water from seeping in. This special sand hardens when water is applied, creating a durable and flexible bond that resists water infiltration and minimizes freeze-thaw damage.

4. The Impact of Salt and De-Icing Chemicals

While necessary for safety, salt and de-icing chemicals can take a toll on your hardscape.

• Salt Damage: Rock salt (sodium chloride) is commonly used to melt ice, but it can cause significant damage to pavers and natural stone. Salt works by drawing moisture out of the materials, leading to surface flaking (spalling) and discoloration. Over time, this weakens the structure of your hardscaping and leaves it looking weathered.
• Opt for Alternatives: If possible, use calcium chloride-based de-icers instead of traditional salt, as these are less harsh on stone and pavers. Sand or kitty litter are good alternatives for traction without the harmful effects of salt. If you do use de-icers, rinse your surfaces off after the snow has melted to minimize long-term damage.
• Apply Sparingly: Even with less harmful products, it’s best to apply de-icing agents sparingly. Use just enough to keep surfaces safe, and avoid spreading too much, as excess chemicals can still damage your hardscape over time.