Why your outdoor hard surfaces need autumn attention
Cheryl Harper, Managing Director of Greensleeves Lawn Care, shares her top tips for keeping your hard surfaces in top condition through the colder months and highlights the benefits of staying ahead of the seasonal curve.
Sweep regularly
Autumn is the perfect time to give your garden surfaces a good clean, clearing away the dirt, moss and algae that have built up over the summer. Grab a stiff-bristled broom and sweep away loose dirt, leaves, and debris from your patios, pathways, and decking.
This simple task helps keep surfaces safe, preventing them from becoming slippery and hazardous during the wet and icy months ahead. Regular sweeping not only keeps things looking tidy but also reduces the risk of accidents when winter sets in.
Use a pressure washer
For those tougher spots, a pressure washer can be your best friend. It’s great for blasting away stubborn dirt, moss and algae from stone, concrete or wooden surfaces. Just be sure to adjust the pressure to suit the material – too much force could cause damage.
If you’re working with more delicate surfaces, like painted wood or decorative tiles, skip the pressure washer and opt for warm water mixed with a mild detergent. A gentle scrub with a soft brush will do the trick without risking any harm.
Apply a patio cleaner
When stubborn stains or algae just won’t budge, it’s time to bring in a dedicated patio cleaner. Look for an eco and pet-friendly option to keep the environment safe. After cleaning, don’t forget to reseal your stone or concrete surfaces once a year. This extra step not only shields them from weather damage but also makes future clean-ups much easier.
Remove weeds and moss
Weeds love to sneak into cracks between pavers, so pull them out by hand or use a weed killer to keep them in check. Moss and algae also need attention – they trap moisture and, when freezing temperatures hit, that moisture can lead to cracks and damage on concrete, stone and brick surfaces. Tackling weeds, moss and algae in autumn is key to keeping your surfaces in top shape and preventing problems during the winter months.
Use sand for joint maintenance
In paved areas, keeping the sand between joints topped up is essential. This simple step helps prevent weeds from sprouting between the cracks and supports the overall structure of the surface, keeping your pavers stable and secure.
Regularly checking and adding sand, especially after a thorough clean, ensures your patio or pathway stays in great shape and ready to handle the elements through the winter.
Clearing organic debris
Autumn brings plenty of fallen leaves, twigs and other organic debris and, if left alone, they can break down into a layer of grime on your hard surfaces. This build-up encourages mould and moss to thrive. Plus, organic matter can attract pests and diseases, increasing the risk of them lingering over winter and causing issues in your garden come spring. By clearing away this debris in autumn, you’re keeping things tidy while also helping to protect your garden for the seasons ahead.
End-of-season maintenance
Autumn is your last chance to give the garden a proper clean before winter sets in, and it’s the perfect time to get everything in top shape for the off-season.
By tackling this now, you’re setting yourself up for easier maintenance when spring rolls around. Plus, the mild autumn weather – with cooler temperatures and more manageable conditions – makes it a breeze compared to the summer heat or winter chill. Surfaces dry faster, and working outside is far more pleasant. It’s the ideal time to get those finishing touches done.
