What a Hardscape Maintenance Service Can Do for Your Property This Fall

Putting a home’s outdoor space to use – by installing a deck or patio and other forms of hardscape – is one of the smartest landscaping decisions a homeowner can make. And all of those surfaces need attention and upkeep to remain attractive and withstand the elements over the years. 

Landscapers play an important role in that process. While the greenery certainly requires a lot of attention and maintenance, those outdoor living areas also need some seasonal TLC. That applies to just about any hard surface outdoors:

• Stairways
• Decks
• Patios
• Driveways
• Sidewalks
• Vestibules and porches
• Pergolas and gazebos

Many services are needed year round. Still, some autumnal landscaping tasks are different than, say, in the springtime when things are just starting to bud and bloom. With stone pathways, driveways and other structures, you’ll want a full-service landscaping company that can handle the complexities and needs that a modern backyard design brings.

Clear Pathways with Proper Leaf Blowers & Equipment in Illinois, Wisconsin and Beyond

The fall is aptly named here in the Midwest, and not just due to the falling leaves. Acorns get strewn across lawns and walkways, and good luck getting rid of all the ginkgo berries underfoot. 

As beautiful as this time of year is, it can be a little infuriating for the average resident to deal with all the additional debris that autumn brings. An important role of a landscaper is clearing all those pathways and other hardscapes that collect whatever is falling from above.

The approach to clearing leaves and other debris from hardscapes might vary depending on the kind of surface and what needs to be cleared. A professional will have the proper leaf blowers, as states like Illinois and Wisconsin are starting to ban certain gas-powered equipment. They will also be familiar with the best methods for removing refuse in your area, and will ensure your pathways are properly cleared and safe for use.

Inspect & Prepare Driveways, Paths, Decks and Other Hard Surfaces for Winter

It always helps to have a trained eye to inspect decks, patios, outdoor stairways and other hard surfaces for signs of wear and tear. But seasonal preparation may include many different steps:

1. Clean surfaces
2. Minimize damage
3. Inspect for cracks in stones and surfaces
4. Remove undesirable growth and debris
5. Maintain containers
6. Pressure wash concrete
7. Apply ice prevention methods
8. Remove snow

As things cool down, safety should be a factor in the upkeep of surfaces, especially those that experience foot traffic. Therefore, it’s important to maintain those areas to help keep them safe. Keeping hardscapes clean and in good condition, and minimizing cracks and other damage that may start to appear, can even prevent falls or accidents that could cause injury.

Trim or Remove Overgrown Foliage

Things can get a little overgrown throughout the spring and summer months. Grass, weeds and other growth may appear between stones or pavers. Perhaps that’s the look you were after! If so, you want to be sure that aspect of your design is handled properly. 

However, as is more often the case, overgrowth tends to sprout where it isn’t wanted and needs to be removed. Installing paths, patios and pergolas the right way in the first place will help prevent this type of overgrowth. Meanwhile, cutting and trimming unwanted growth alongside pathways provides a better, cleaner look for your outdoor living spaces.

Contact a Full-Service Landscaping Company for Construction, Design & Maintenance Needs

Want to keep your outdoor hardscapes in as good a condition as possible? Schmechtig Landscapes handles a whole array of outdoor living needs, including:

• Design
• Construction
• Maintenance
• Outdoor lighting installation
• Holiday lights

Visit Schmechtig Landscapes online to discover the broad range of services we provide to Midwestern homes all year round. Our team of specialists will answer any questions you have about the proper treatment for your landscape and any seasonal needs you might have. Call us today to get started!