Winter in South Wales can be tough on outdoor surfaces. Continuous rain, freezing temperatures, and thawing cycles can wreak havoc on patios if they aren't properly maintained. Porous stones like sandstone are particularly vulnerable to water ingress, which can freeze and cause cracks or "spalling" (flaking of the surface).
1. Keep it Clean
The most important step is keeping the surface clear. Wet leaves left on paving can cause severe staining (tannin marks) which are very difficult to remove. They also create a slip hazard and trap moisture, encouraging moss and algae growth.
Kärcher K4 Power Control Pressure Washer
Perfect for careful patio cleaning. The power control gun lets you adjust pressure to avoid damaging pointing or loose slabs.
Check Price on Amazon2. Dealing with Algae and Moss
Green algae thrives in damp, shaded conditions. Not only does it look unsightly, but it becomes incredibly slippery when wet. While a pressure washer gives instant results, be careful—too much pressure can damage the pointing (the mortar between slabs).
We often recommend a "Soft Wash" approach using a specialized biocide cleaner. You simply apply it, leave it to work, and rinse it off. It kills the spores at the root, keeping your patio cleaner for longer than just water alone.
Patio Magic! Hard Surface Cleaner
The lazy way to clean. Just pour, spray, and leave. Kills green mould and algae without scrubbing or pressure washing.
Check Price on Amazon3. Check Your Pointing
The mortar joints are the first line of defense against water getting under your slabs. If water gets underneath and freezes, it expands, popping the slabs loose (known as "heave").
Inspect your joints before deep winter sets in. Any cracks should be repaired immediately. Modern resin-based jointing compounds are excellent for quick, durable repairs that tolerate movement better than traditional cement.
4. To Seal or Not to Seal?
Sealing your patio creates a barrier against moisture and stains. However, you must never sell a damp patio. Sealing in moisture will cause the stone to bloom (turn white) and can degrade the surface. If you missed the dry window in summer, wait until a dry spell in spring to apply sealant.
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