Posted on Date 20th Dec 2023
How to get your patio ready for winter
Getting your patio ready for winter
Although its only early autumn the nights are already drawing in and before you know it winter will be upon us.
And, if like us, youve been thinking about getting your patio ready for the colder months, now is the perfect time to get your wellies on and get out there and prepare your outdoor tiles so that they are ready for the colder weather ahead.
Which is why weve put together these tips to ensure your patio is looking its best come spring -ready for another busy summer of entertaining family and friends.
Why it is important to remove rubbish from your patio tiles
If your garden is sheltered, chances are that mould (and algae) might have appeared on your outdoor tiles. If thats the case, take a stiff brush and give your patio a good sweep to remove any leaves or dust that may have settled on the surface of your tiles.
Make sure to do the same with any weeds that may have grown between your tiles. Even if your entire patio is paved, weeds have an uncanny knack of growing literally anywhere. While you are cleaning things away, remember to move any garden furniture, flowers pots and tubs, all of which could leave unattractive marks on your patio.
Photo courtesy of Bob van Aubel
Wash your outdoor tiles with a suitable cleaning product
Once youve removed any debris, its time to give your tiles a proper clean. While there isnt a problem with using a jet wash to clean them, its better wherever possible to take a gentler approach.
Wed recommend using a water-based product such as Fila Outdoor Patio and Porcelain Cleaner. PH Neutral, Fila Outdoor Patio and Porcelain Cleaner is suitable for use on virtually all outdoor tile types such as porcelain and thanks to its low foaming power wont leave any residue when finished and will leave your outdoor space in the best possible condition through winter.
Whichever cleaning product you choose, when ready, just take a bucket of warm water and your cleaning product, mix, and then start working it into your tiles with your brush. It might require a bit of elbow grease, but the results will be extremely rewarding when done as your patio will come up looking as good as new.
Be careful when moving snow off your garden patio
If you are lucky enough to see snow this winter, you will be more than likely be tempted to shovel the snow off your tiles. If so, make sure to do so gently as you could find yourself damaging your tiles. A shovel with a plastic head is ideal and just as effective. We would also urge against using rock salt to avoid ice forming on your tiles. Why? Because rock salt once mixed with water can seep into cracks and refreeze making those cracks potentially bigger.
Once youve cleaned your patio and tidied everything away, its time to relax in front of the TV and admire your handiwork in the garden from the comfort of your sofa!
Need more information?
If you have any questions regarding tiling at home, then feel free to contact our Customer Services team using our web chat facility.