The winter period represents a difficult test for every paving stone around the house. Many of us automatically reach for the simplest solution – table salt. However, this seemingly harmless substance can irreversibly damage your interlocking tiles. We bring you proven expert tips on how to protect your sidewalk or driveway from winter weather without the risk of damage.
How to properly protect paving during the winter?
The basis of winter maintenance of interlocking paving is the regular and correct removal of snow and ice. A shovel with a rubber edge will work best, which effectively cleans the surface without the risk of scratching. It is better to leave metal tools in the garage – they can irreversibly damage the structure of the pavement and create scratches. Regular inspection of the joints between the tiles also plays a key role. During softening, the sand often washes out, which significantly reduces the stability of the entire surface. Adding sand to the joints regularly is a simple but effective way to prevent bigger problems in the future. Experts recommend checking the condition of the joints at least once a month.
The biggest winter mistakes in pavement maintenance
Although road salt dissolves ice quickly, it leaves unsightly white spots and dramatically accelerates surface erosion. The result can be not only unsightly maps on the pavement, but also dangerous cracks and overall weakening of the material. In addition, the salt penetrates deep into the pores of the paving, where it gradually eats away at its structure. This process is irreversible and often leads to the necessity of a complete replacement of the paving. In addition, salt aggressively destroys the surrounding vegetation and pollutes the soil and groundwater. Use magnesium or calcium chloride instead of salt. These substances are much more gentle on the pavement and the environment. They effectively dissolve ice without the risk of damaging or changing the color of the surface.
Natural alternatives for a safe sidewalk
Ashes from a fireplace or stove are an excellent natural alternative. It is affordable, absolutely safe for plants and animals and thanks to its dark color it naturally accelerates the melting of ice by absorbing solar heat. In addition, it provides excellent grip for shoes. Another option is wood ash mixed with sand in a 1:1 ratio. This mixture not only increases the safety of walking, but in the spring it will even serve as a natural fertilizer for your garden.
Regular maintenance as the basis of a long service life
Regular care of paving throughout the year significantly extends its life. In the spring after winter, it is important to thoroughly clean the paving from winter dirt. Use a mild detergent and a soft brush. Avoid high-pressure cleaners, which can damage the joint material. Then check the condition of the joints and repair any damage as soon as possible.
Sprinkle the land instead of salt. It will not damage the plants and the ice will disappear from the pavement in a few moments
