Tips on Caring for Interlocking Driveways and Walkways in the Winter

Maintaining and Protecting Stone and Masonry Landscaping in Winter

Any Canadian driver will most likely attest to the fact that winter weather can play havoc with road conditions, with visibility and traction, and consequently driver and passenger safety, being the most significant concerns. And when spring finally arrives, the effect of winter’s damage to the road surfaces themselves becomes fully evident, i.e. potholes or upheaved, chipped, or missing sections, etc. Let’s talk interlocking.

Aside from a few complaints about rough-and-bumpy conditions on some city streets or highways, most drivers will be content to welcome the warm weather without giving a second thought to these surfaces – unless those conditions exist much closer to home, as in damage to their interlock driveways and walkways. Homeowners who invest in masonry or stone landscaping, such as an interlocking driveway, a stone entrance way, or a stone paver patio, are particular about the look of their property; thus, any damage that occurs to these interlock features can be particularly disconcerting.

Interlock damage can result from a number of sources over the winter; these include:

• Road salt deposits
• Ice melting products
• Water or frost penetration
• Mechanical means (snow removal)

As a result, the structural integrity and/or curb appeal of masonry and stone landscaping can display the following problem signs:

• Lifting
• Sinking
• Shifting
• Staining
• Chipping
• Cracking

While the course of nature cannot be controlled at any time of the year, and especially in the winter, there are steps that homeowners can take to minimize or prevent damage to their stone or masonry landscaping throughout the cold-temperature season:

• Use plastic shovels to remove snow
• Equip snow blowers with a plastic shoe
• Do not try to chop or chip away ice formations
• Apply ice melting agents sparingly, when necessary
• Do not allow the weight of snow and/or ice to accumulate
• Keep vehicles clean to avoid salt/sand deposits on driveways

Although these tips may seem like common sense to many, it is important to keep them top-of-mind to protect/extend their investments in stone and masonry landscaping; an equally important reason would be to avoid any unwanted and unnecessary repair costs.

Masonry and Stone Landscaping Can Transform the Look, Appeal of a Property. Power of Interlocking

One factor that can/will affect the ability of interlock construction to withstand the harsh conditions of winter is the overall quality of the installation; driveways, walkways, patios, etc. that are poorly or hastily installed will have shorter lifespans – and will lead to more headaches, expense, and overall dissatisfaction for the homeowner.

The skill and experience of the Landcare team in the design and construction of masonry and stone landscaping can help alleviate such potential concerns for the homeowner; all interlock projects completed by the Landcare crews are distinguished by the following:

• A proper foundation
• The best quality material
• The latest installation techniques
• Superior workmanship/attention to detail
• Finishing touches for an optimal visual impact

If you are considering the addition of interlocking stone or masonry to your landscaping, call the professionals at Landcare today at 647-557-7307 to schedule a free consultation on how we can help transform the look and appeal of your property.

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