It might be tempting to fully retreat indoors into the warmth during the autumn and winter months. But if you neglect your natural stone or porcelain patio paving, it could accumulate stains and damage. Regular maintenance will prevent this and ensures your garden remains an inviting place throughout the year. Here's a brief guide to how to maintain your patio during the autumn and winter months.

General Maintenance

Start by removing plant pots. They often will be concealing a build-up of plant matter and even rubbish. Pots that have been sat for a long time can also leave stains on the patio. This provides a great opportunity to thoroughly clean the whole area. Try placing the pots in new areas to prevent any permanent staining.

Take time to store away furniture to protect it from the elements. If you don't have space to store the furniture then cover with plastic sheeting and tie-down to prevent damage from wind and rain. Finally clear the paving of any twigs, leaves, moss and weeds. This will ensure the debris doesn't cause ridges on the surface of the paving in colder weather.

Natural Stone

The colours of the autumn leaves can be visually stunning, but if you leave them where they fall on natural stone, there’s a high risk of them staining your paving over the winter. Regular sweeping will reduce the risk of accumulating stains or damage. 

It’s wise to periodically hose down the paving to minimise any long-term impact. Be wary of using a high powered jet wash, as it may exploit any minor cracks, but can be used sparingly to remove any stubborn stains.

Always take care in winter, as snow and ice can make your patio slippery. Keep up the maintenance throughout the winter and sweep snow and water off your paving, preventing it from freezing over, and preventing you from safely enjoying your garden winter landscape.

Customer Gallery - Paving 005 | Westminster Stone

Porcelain Paving

Porcelain has low moisture absorption, meaning it is front and slip-resistant, and also easy to sweep away snow and ice. 

Regularly maintain your paving by sweeping with a rubber brush to reduce the risk of stains and damage occurring, whilst also assisting the drainage.

Jet washing is an ideal way to clean porcelain paving. The durability of porcelain means that regular maintenance using a jet washer will not damage the paving, but always take care around grouted joints.

Lindisfarne Grey Porcelain Case Study 1

Rejuvenate Your Patio

If you are looking to rejuvenate your patio area in time for spring next year then see our helpful guide on How to Choose the Right Paving for Your Patio to transform your garden over the colder months. We have a wide range of natural stone, porcelain and Hand made flagstones in a variety of textures, finishes and colour palettes.

Video Guides to Maintaining Your Patio