4 mistakes you need to avoid this year so that your patio can survive the winter without any problems

September begins fall, an important time to prepare your patio for the harsh winter weather. Neglecting this preparation can result in costly damage and jeopardize your outdoor space for next season. Discover the mistakes to avoid and the essential measures to take to protect your patio from the cold.

1/Neglecting thorough cleaning

One of the most common mistakes is underestimating the importance of thoroughly cleaning your patio in September. Debris accumulated over the summer, such as dead leaves, dust and grill residue, can cause significant damage if left over the winter.

To avoid this trap, follow these essential steps:

• Carefully sweep the entire surface.
• Use a pressure washer to remove stubborn stains.
• To treat problem areas, apply a special patio cleaning product .
• Rinse well and allow to dry completely.

Deep cleaning is not just limited to the floor. Don't forget to clean the railings, railings and patio furniture too. These elements are equally vulnerable to bad weather and require special attention.

Here you will find an overview table of the recommended products by surface type:

Surface type	Recommended product
Drink	black soap
Connection	Special composite cleaner
rock	pH-neutral cleaner
concrete	alkaline cleaning agent

2/Forget about inspections and repairs

Another common mistake is not thoroughly inspecting your deck after cleaning . The summer may have left its mark: cracks, splinters or damaged boards. Ignoring these deteriorations can lead to more serious problems in winter.

These are the key points to check:

1. Condition of the boards or panels
2. Fastening strength
3. Shared Integrity
4. Stability of the foundation

If you notice a problem, don't wait to solve it . Repairs carried out in September are more efficient and durable than those carried out urgently in the middle of winter. On wooden decks, pay particular attention to signs of rot or infestation by wood-eating insects, such as house beetles .

Don't hesitate to call a professional for a thorough inspection if you have any concerns. An expert can identify subtle problems and advise you on the best repair or replacement solutions.

3/Underestimate the importance of protective treatment

It's helpful to protect your patio from the elements, especially as winter approaches. A common mistake is to neglect the application of a protective treatment tailored to the type of terrace . This treatment is important to maintain the integrity and aesthetics of your outdoor space.

For wooden decks, applying a little oil or stain is essential. These products penetrate the fibers of the wood and protect it from moisture, UV rays and temperature fluctuations. Famous landscape architect Gilles Clément recommends choosing eco-friendly products to preserve the biodiversity of your garden.

Composite decking also requires special attention. Although they are often presented as maintenance free, they benefit from an anti-UV and anti-stain treatment. This treatment preserves the color and makes spring cleaning easier.

A water repellent is recommended for stone or concrete patios. This prevents water from penetrating through the pores of the material and prevents frost damage.

4/Poor storage of garden furniture

When preparing the terrace for winter, the care of the garden furniture is often neglected. A common mistake is exposing furniture to the elements or storing it improperly. This negligence can lead to rapid deterioration of your furniture and accessories.

For optimal storage, the following steps must be followed:

1. Thoroughly clean each piece of furniture
2. Dry completely to prevent mold formation.
3. Apply protective treatment if necessary.
4. Store in a dry, frost-protected place.

If you're short on storage space, invest in high-quality protective covers . Choose waterproof and UV-resistant models. Make sure they are securely fastened to withstand winter winds.

Don't forget accessories like cushions, parasols and planters. These items are particularly vulnerable to inclement weather and should be stored indoors. For potted plants , consider bringing them indoors or protecting them with a winter sail .

With these tips you can avoid common mistakes when preparing your patio for winter. Careful maintenance in September will ensure the longevity of your outdoor space and ensure that you can enjoy it to the fullest from the first sunny days of spring. Take the time to properly prepare your deck, it will pay off a hundredfold come summer.

Important points	Actions to be taken
Deep cleaning	Sweep the surface, use a pressure washer and apply a special cleaning agent.
Inspection and repairs.	Check the condition of the blades and the tightness of the fastenings and repair any damage.
Protective treatment	Apply an oil or stain to the wood, a water repellent to the stone.
Furniture storage	Dry clean the furniture and store it in a dry, protected place.
Accessory protection	Use protective covers for garden furniture and bring cushions

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