FAQs: Protecting Your Paver Patio & Driveway in Winter

Tony Lausas

Founder & President, Paver Rescue

Winter can be the toughest  time of year on your Indiana hardscape with snow, ice and sleet. I  receive a lot of questions from homeowners who want to protect their outdoor living spaces against these elements, so I put together a list of the most popular questions and the answers. I hope you find these helpful. If you have a question not addressed here, please share it by sending an email to tony@paverrescue.com.

1. Is it too late to seal my paver stones?

If you’ve been following the Paver Rescue newsletter, you know that sealing your paver stones is one of the most important steps to protect your outdoor space. Sealing prevents moisture from melted snow and ice from seeping into your pavers and causing cracks. Sealing also provides other valuable benefits. To properly seal a patio, the ideal weather is sunny with a temperature above 50 degrees. While we may have a few pop-up warm days, you likely need to wait until spring to seal your paver stones. Paver Rescue is currently booking spring appointments for paver repair, restoration, cleaning and sealing. Request a free, no-obligation estimate or call 317-259-4880.

1. Is it too late to seal my paver stones?

If you’ve been following the Paver Rescue newsletter, you know that sealing your paver stones is one of the most important steps to protect your outdoor space. Sealing prevents moisture from melted snow and ice from seeping into your pavers and causing cracks. Sealing also provides other valuable benefits. To properly seal a patio, the ideal weather is sunny with a temperature above 50 degrees. While we may have a few pop-up warm days, you likely need to wait until spring to seal your paver stones. Paver Rescue is currently booking spring appointments for paver repair, restoration, cleaning and sealing. Request a free, no-obligation estimate or call 317-259-4880.

2. Do I need to remove accumulated snow on my paver stone driveway or patio?

Yes, snow removal should happen as quickly as possible. While the snow itself won’t harm your pavers, the eventual water runoff that seeps into the porous pavers can cause damage during Indiana’s frequent refreezing and thawing cycles.

3. Is it safe to use a metal snow shovel?

It’s best to give your pavers a gentle shovel using a plastic or rubber-edged shovel. A metal shovel may chip or scratch your paver stones

4. Will ice-melting salt or de-icers damage my paver stones?

Some chemicals used in salts and de-icing products may discolor your paver stones. It’s best to consult with a hardscape expert or the paver stone manufacturer before using salt or other agents.

5. Is there anything else I should do to care for my pavers in the winter?

When you have a dry day with temperatures above freezing (32 degrees), take time to blow or sweep away any dirt, sand or leaves to prevent staining.

Tips for Caring for Pets in Winter

Like your paver stones, our furry friends require special attention in the winter. Check out the American Kennel Club’s advice for keeping animals safe and comfortable in the cold.