Spring is in the air! Finally, the snow is beginning to melt away, and while we may still get another heap before winter lets go for good, we can begin to see parts of our beloved landscaped yard reappearing.
It’s time to start planning and preparing for the spring clean-up and maintenance. There is a lot to be done: raised beds and planters need tending and turning, lawns need aeration, and decks need to be swept and possibly restrained. However, what about pathways or patio areas? They need attention, too.
Interlocking stones are a fantastic addition to any landscaped space, offering durability and aesthetic appeal. While they require relatively low maintenance, it’s important to give them some attention, especially after a long, harsh winter. Regular care not only preserves their appearance and structural integrity but also extends their lifespan.
Maintaining your interlocking stones may seem daunting at first, but it’s surprisingly manageable. With a few simple steps, you can restore their beauty and ensure they continue to impress your guests for seasons to come.
1. Do a thorough clean
The first step in any maintenance is to give the area a good sweeping. Clear away all the dirt and debris that the snow loves to hide from view. Even gravel or ice-melt remnants need to be cleared off.
This debris has the potential to hide any issues caused by snow and ice during the winter, so removing it allows you to clearly see what needs to be done.
Sweeping should be performed as part of your regular maintenance, regardless of the season. This helps keep debris off and the aesthetics high, as well as preventing staining from wet leaves or dropped food during the family BBQ.
Once all the dirt and debris are gone, it’s time to break out the garden hose. Paired with a stiff-bristled brush, you can spray down the stones and then carry out another sweeping. This time, though, use a broom that can get into all the minute cracks and crevices that are naturally a part of the stone to lift out even more tucked-away dirt.
You can also use a diluted solution of dish soap to get everything extra clean. Pour some on, let it sit, and then sweep and rinse it away. Once dried in the warm spring sun, your interlocking stones will look new and refreshed, like the day they were installed.
2. Make sure the interlocking stones are level
With the constant expansion and movement of the earth beneath the interlocking stones, caused by melting snow and freezing ice, a lot can shift.
Uneven stones are not only a tripping hazard but can also be unsightly. If one or more interlocking stones have risen or sunk, they will need professional assistance to become level again.
The weight of the stones and the addition of paving sand can be heavy and cumbersome, making this a task best left to the professionals. Hiring an expert not only reduces the risk of injury or strain to you and your helpers, but it also ensures the job is done efficiently and with lasting results.
If you want flawless, level interlocking stones without the hassle, JW Landscaping is your trusted landscaping company in Hamilton and Brantford. Our experienced team can quickly restore your stonework to its original beauty (or better) with precision and care.
3. Be certain you have enough sand
Interlocking pavers rely on a special blend of sand to help the stones stay level, minimize shifting, and keep the entire structure stable.
This sand serves multiple purposes. It acts as a natural weed barrier, preventing unwanted growth while also securing the stones in place. Additionally, it functions as a natural filter, helping to purify rainwater as it seeps through to the soil below.
Over time, however, this sand gradually depletes. Rainfall can slowly wash it away, and regular foot traffic can further displace it, especially in high-use areas. If left unaddressed, these worn-down spots can lead to uneven surfaces and structural issues. To maintain a polished, professional look, be sure to inspect your pavers each spring and top up the sand as needed.
4. Check for cracks in the stones
Interlocking stones can enhance any space with a modern or vintage aesthetic, but they should always appear solid and intact, never cracked or crumbled.
Cracked stones not only undermine the overall design and visual appeal but can also pose serious safety concerns by creating tripping hazards. No one wants patio stones that appear flawless on the surface yet are compromised underneath.
Promptly replacing any damaged stones is essential. It helps preserve the structure and appearance of your interlocking system while preventing further deterioration or costly repairs down the line.
JW Landscaping: Your Interlocking Stone Experts
Creating a beautifully landscaped space that reflects your personal vision is important, but having a trusted partner who can also handle ongoing maintenance and repairs is even better.
JW Landscaping is the go-to landscaping company in Hamilton and Brantford that does it all. We combine creativity with technical expertise to design, build, and maintain your ideal outdoor space from start to finish. With decades of experience behind us, JW Landscaping combines the artistry of custom outdoor design with the precision of expert craftsmanship.
Our services book fast, so if you need repairs or cleaning (or both) for your stepping stones, visit us online to book a free consultation. You can also call us at 905-512-6549 and chat with our friendly, professional, and knowledgeable team.
