Winter’s on its way, and that means it’s time to think about your driveway. Wet, icy weather can take a toll on outdoor surfaces if they’re not ready for the cold. Cracks can get bigger, and frost can create even more damage. So, what can you do to make sure your driveway stands up to the winter months? At GPH Builders Merchants, we’ve got a few tips to help you out, plus some great products from our own brand GPH Porcelain, to concrete slabs, or high quality paviors that can make all the difference.
Why Winter Can Be Hard on Your Outdoor Area
You know how water freezes and expands, right? Well, that’s what happens when water seeps into small cracks in your driveway or between the slabs of your patio. When it freezes, the crack gets bigger, and over time, you’ll end up with more serious damage. And it’s not just cracks—you could see your paving shift or sink in spots, especially if the drainage isn’t right. That's why it’s a good idea to get this kind of thing sorted before the real cold sets in.
Take a Good Look
The first thing you want to do is give your driveway or patio a once-over. Walk around and take a look at everything. Are there any cracks? Do some areas look uneven? What about places where water tends to pool? These are all things you should check. Even tiny cracks can turn into bigger problems once the temperature drops. And don’t forget to check the joints between pavers, especially along the edges where things might be shifting. If you find any issues, it’s best to fix them now rather than wait for the ice and snow to make things worse.
What to Check for:
- Cracks: Even small ones can grow when water freezes inside them.
- Uneven spots: Water can collect here and freeze, causing more cracks.
- Gaps between pavers: Make sure they’re filled to keep water out.
- Drainage: Water should run off your driveway, not sit on it.
Time to Fix Things Up
Once you’ve spotted any issues, it’s time to sort them out. Cracks and gaps? No problem. If you’ve got pavoirs, double-check the joints. Are they filled? If not, grab a jointing compound and get them sorted.
Seal It for Extra Protection
If you want to go the extra mile, sealing your driveway is a smart move. A good sealant can create a protective layer that keeps water from seeping in and freezing. This is especially helpful for natural stone driveways like sandstone or granite, which are more porous.
You can grab a sealant from our online store via click and collect or local delivery. You can read more about drive and patio sealant and jointing compounds in a future blog.
(Upcoming Blog: All About Sealants and Jointing Compounds)
Wrapping Up
Just to sum all that up: Check first. Identify any issues. Get the right material for the job. Get it done early. That’s pretty much it. Getting issues fixed now will save you money in the long run. Whatever you need, whether you’re sealing cracks or thinking about an upgrade to your winter seating area, GPH has everything you need to keep your hardscape in great condition all winter.
Pop into one of our branches or browse our paving and driveway products from all our suppliers. We’re here to help you get started.
