According to the Farmer´s Almanac, the first sign of spring is the departure of the last frost. In Northeast Florida, this can happen as early as February, and as late as April. So, as winter lingers, Groundhog Day brings anticipation and hope for an early spring, which is a critical time to tend to your exterior landscaping and hardscapes. While the groundhog's prediction may be uncertain, preparing your property's exterior can ensure a smooth transition when warmer days finally arrive!
What are Exterior Hardscapes?
Exterior hardscapes is is a term used for patios, landscaped walkways, sitting walls, retaining walls, water features, fire pits, landscape lighting, grill surrounds, pergolas, and more. They all entail landscape materials, often in the form of concrete, to build structures in your yard, for aesthetic and functional reasons. This being said, outdoor hardscapes can extend to the indoors in Northeast Florida, especially if your property features a lanai or enclosed pool deck. By proactively caring for your exterior hardscapes, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor spaces but also prepare for the warmer days ahead.
When can you open your pool?
If your household is anything like ours, you probably get a lot of questions about the pool. Our kids constantly ask when it will be ready for swimming. The answer is somewhat uncontrollable and variant, as pool experts from Swim University state that the time is ¨when exterior temperatures are consistently above 70 degrees during the day.¨ That time approaches quickly in Florida, and that translates to early preparations. So, what can you do to have your pool ready for spring´s warmth? Watch this video about pool openings, and read on to learn about other exterior hardscape care.
1. Inspect and Repair your concrete floors:
Begin by inspecting your hardscapes, such as concrete patios, driveways, and walkways. Look for any cracks, shifts, or damages caused by winter weather, settling and erosion. Promptly repair any issues to prevent further deterioration, or seek the assistance of concrete professionals. Bill Kerins, with Pristine Pool Decks, has worked as a concrete mason for over 20 years, and knows what needs repair. He can even help you find trustworthy repairmen, if need be.
2. Clean Surfaces to Look Pristine:
Winter leaves behind debris, dirt, and even mold on your hardscape surfaces. Thoroughly clean these areas using a pressure washer or apply appropriate cleaning solutions by hand, or with a mop. Be mindful that pressure washing can cause exterior painted concrete to fade, peel or crack, while other coated surfaces stand against all of the elements. More on this next:
3. Apply Coatings for Added Protection to Your Exterior Hardscapes:
Apply high-quality, slip-resistant coatings to your concrete surfaces to provide an extra layer of protection against the elements. Coatings can guard against water penetration, freeze-thaw cycles, and UV damage, ensuring the longevity of your outdoor features without having to paint one thousand times over!
In other words, if you feel that you have been putting more work into your property's upkeep than what would would like, then it is time to simply enjoy your outdoor spaces with this added peace of mind.
4. Prepare the Greenery Embedded in Your Outdoor Hardscapes.
If your exterior hardscapes are surrounded by landscaping, prepare the beds for spring. Remove debris, trim overgrown plants, and add fresh mulch to create an appealing contrast against the hardscape elements.
5. Check All Drainage Systems:
Ensure that drainage systems are functioning properly. Poor drainage can lead to water accumulation, causing damage to your hardscapes over time, especially near to pool decks and by the water´s edge. Clean out gutters, downspouts, and check for any blockages in drainage channels. Skipping this step could lead to increased costs.
6. Evaluate Lighting Fixtures Surrounding your Exterior Hardscapes:
Inspect outdoor lighting fixtures embedded in your hardscapes. Clean or replace bulbs as needed and ensure that the fixtures are in good working condition. Maybe it is a time to invest into LED bulbs, solar bulbs or even solar panels for your home? Proper illumination not only enhances aesthetics but also improves safety during evening hours.
7. Consider New Additions to your Exterior Hardscapes:
Use this time to envision improvements or additions to your exterior hardscapes. Whether it's adding a fire pit, updating furniture, or incorporating new landscaping elements, planning ahead allows you to seamlessly integrate these changes.
By proactively caring for your exterior hardscapes - whether it is your concrete pool deck, driveway, patio/lanai or walkways, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor spaces for the months to come, but you will be better prepared for the warmer days ahead. Regardless of the groundhog's prediction, your hardscapes will be ready to welcome spring with open arms!
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