Winter is just around the corner, and other than the occasional unseasonably warm day, it’s hard to find a reason to spend time on your patio. In fact, you’re probably looking at your patio and thinking about the next few months. Snow, ice, wind and cold can affect your property, and this little corner of your yard is no exception.
Here are a few steps you can take to prepare your patio for winter.
Care for your furniture in the yard
If possible, store your patio furniture during the winter. If you can’t do this, consider adding some kind of frost-resistant covering or tarp. Measure your furniture before you buy cover so you know how much material you need to buy.
If you have a permanent grill or barbecue, be sure to cover it to prevent water from getting on the metal parts, as they may rust. Clean your furniture before putting it away for the season. You can wash the forged parts with a mild soap solution and sand off any rust. If you have wicker furniture, use a vacuum cleaner and a soft brush to remove dirt. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using any cleaning products.
If you’re not brave enough to barbecue year-round, now is the time to put your grill away for the season to protect it from rust. If you have a gas grill, turn off the gas tank and disconnect the hose. If your grill is connected to a gas line, close the valve on the grill and the other on your home. With the gas off, clean the grill using degreaser and a heavy-duty wire brush, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Under the grill grate you will find a baking tray. This also needs to be cleaned, but first you need to rinse it well to remove any remaining food. Leave overnight in hot water mixed with a strong detergent. Your grill will also need a cover. Look for one that will resist cracking and fading and will completely cover the grill.
If you’re dealing with concrete, sweep the patio before scrubbing with water and a stiff-bristled brush. Use a degreaser to remove stains from your grill. If you have a natural stone patio, you can clean it with a mild detergent. Just be sure to wash it off to protect people from slipping. You can clean paving slab patios using washing machines. When working with composite materials, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Have the last few winters been tough on your patio? Maybe it’s time for something new. The paving slab manufacturer Tile Plus can help you with this. Contact us today to find out how we can help your yard look its best.