Winter in Pittsburgh doesn’t mess around—freeze-thaw cycles, snow, ice, and lots of salt. If you’ve got a paver patio (or you’re thinking about installing one), you might be wondering: How do I protect it when winter hits?
Don’t worry. With a little maintenance, you can keep your paver patio looking great and avoid costly repairs.
Here’s how to handle paver patio maintenance in Pittsburgh PA like a pro.
1. Clean It Before the Snow Falls
Before that first snowstorm hits, give your patio a good cleaning. Sweep away leaves, dirt, and any debris that might trap moisture. Then rinse it off with a garden hose. If you’ve got a pressure washer, go easy—too much pressure can damage the paver surface.
If you’d rather let the pros handle it, check out our cleanup services.
2. Seal It (If Needed)
Pavers are tough, but Pittsburgh winters can be rough. Sealing helps protect against water penetration and keeps salt from soaking in and causing stains. Not every patio needs it every year, but if your pavers are looking a little faded or you see small cracks forming, it’s a good idea.
Need help deciding if sealing is right for your patio? Just ask during your patio services consultation.
3. Be Smart With Snow Removal
Snow and ice are inevitable here. When it’s time to clear them, use a plastic shovel instead of a metal one—metal edges can scratch or chip the pavers.
If you need to use ice melt, pick a product that’s safe for concrete and stone. Rock salt can cause discoloration and damage over time.
Worried about drainage? Our draining services can help make sure melting snow goes away from your patio, not into it.
4. Watch for Shifting or Settling
Freeze-thaw cycles can sometimes cause pavers to shift. If you notice uneven spots or pooling water, it’s time for a quick fix. One of the best things about pavers? Repairs are easy. A single paver can be lifted and reset without tearing up the whole patio.
Want to know what to expect during repairs or installation? Check out our paver patio installation guide.
5. Keep It Dry When You Can
If your patio has a lot of shade, it might take longer for snow and ice to melt. A good landscape design can help manage that—like trimming back branches or planning sun exposure.
We also recommend addressing any low spots with grading before winter hits to prevent puddles that turn to ice.
Bonus Tip: Check It in the Spring
Once the snow melts, give your patio a good once-over. Look for cracks, shifting, or any areas that might need a little TLC. Early repairs are always cheaper than waiting for a bigger problem.
And if you’re ready to add on a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, or other upgrades, spring is the perfect time to get started.
Keep Your Patio Looking Its Best All Year
At Custom Landscapes, we’re here to make sure your paver patio stands up to Pittsburgh’s harshest winters—and looks great come spring.
Need help with maintenance, repairs, or even planning a new patio? Head over to our contact page and let’s talk about keeping your backyard the envy of the neighborhood.