By Lizzie Weakley

If you want to preserve the natural beauty of your patio, it is vital for you to plan for its care during the inclement months of fall and winter. Follow some of these tips to ensure its longevity and appearance for the coming years.

Sweep and Wash Debris

One of the most important ways for homeowners to prepare for the colder months is to make sure that the patio is clear of debris. Sweep and wash away any leaves or dirt from your walkways and patios as often as possible in order to prevent stains from accumulating. This relatively quick weekly maintenance can save you from having to refinish in the future.

Fill Gaps in Joints

If you notice some gaps beginning to form in the joints of your patio, it is vital to fill them as soon as possible. Both polysand and cement can be good choices to clear such problems in the future. If these gaps are left alone, water can slip inside and expand during freezing, widening the gaps and causing all types of damage.

Seal Masonry

Depending on the materials used in your patio, it is vital to work with the appropriate sealing materials in order to prevent long-term damage over the winter. Patios, walkways and even driveways may become damaged during the winter when salt and ice are allowed to slip into sensitive areas and wear away at the structural integrity.

Backfill the Edges

Always keep a vigilant eye on the edges of your patio in order to make sure that there is no possible chance of soil erosion. You want to make certain that the edges are backfilled in order to stop water from pooling and freezing. Much like any other section of the patio, once water gets in, long-term damage can significantly drive up your maintenance costs.

Clear the Gutters

If you have downspouts or gutters overlooking your patio, you want to make sure that they are as clear as possible. Seal away the material itself and direct the flow of water and debris away from the masonry surface to avoid chips and freezes. Stay on top of such maintenance as often as possible to prevent damage to your siding as well. Speaking with capable professionals can allow you to personalize a care routine for your patio even more efficiently as well. The next time you need to have maintenance or a new installation done, ask the experts about what you can do to make your patio even more beautiful. Bio: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.