Spring Cleaning your Hardscape

With spring just around the corner, there are a lot of things to look forward to, like longer days, warmer weather, and more time outside. But after months of harsh, cold weather, your outdoor space might need a bit of rejuvenation. As your landscape begins to breathe new life, don’t let your winter-worn hardscape diminish the beauty of your outdoor living space. By adding a few easy tasks to your spring-cleaning checklist, you can make sure that your hardscape is revitalized and ready for the warm weather.

Clear Away Debris

The easiest first step in cleaning your hardscape is by clearing away any debris that may have fallen during the winter. All debris, both big and small, can wear away at your hardscape and facilitate mildew growth if left for too long; so grab a broom, rake, or leaf blower to reveal your hardscape’s beautiful design. Pay attention to areas that may accumulate more debris, like corners gaps in between spacers.

Check for Damage

The harsh winter weather can be damaging to your hardscape’s materials, and if damage goes untreated for too long, it can spread and pose a threat to the integrity of the structure. Inspect your hardscape for any cracking or dislodged stones and address the damage quickly to avoid a larger, more costly repair in the future.

Wash Away Stains

The months of wind, snow, ice, and salt are likely to have left some staining on your hardscape, dulling its clean, welcoming look. Luckily, a little bit of TLC can return it to its original vibrancy. For materials like concrete, brick, or stone, just a gentle wash should remove most dirt and grime; all you need is a hose and some soapy water. For tougher stains and buildup, though, a power washer may come in handy; just make sure you’re not using a setting that’s too high for your hardscape’s material. Consider hiring a professional to power wash your hardscape to prevent any accidental damage.

Landscape Maintenance

Once your hardscape is freshened up and ready for the spring, don’t forget to spruce up the surrounding greenery to tie your whole backyard together. Trim surrounding vegetation, lay seeds in empty areas, and remove any invading weeds to promote growth and keep the area welcoming and full of life.

Your outdoor space has spent months withstanding the cold, waiting for the weather to turn and people to come outside again. Make sure you get the most of your time outside with a hardscape that looks as fresh and vibrant as the new season. Completing these few easy, quick tasks will go a long way toward ensuring that your hardscape stays both functional and aesthetic through the spring and summer.