It’s also a good idea to look over your fence and shed at this time of year
Gardeners have been issued some advice about gardening in the winter(Image: Getty)
Garden enthusiasts maybe worried about their outdoor spaces throughout the chilly winter period, particularly when it comes to the patio. There are numerous factors to bear in mind on patio maintenance. Jonathan Kirby, gardening specialist with outdoor supplies brand Roxil, discussed how to maintain your green space in top condition.
He cautioned that patios are prone to mould, algae, lichen or weed development during colder months, leaving them looking neglected. Should you be considering blasting your patio with a pressure washer, you might want to explore an alternative approach.
Mr Kirby said: “You might be tempted to tackle the patio with a pressure washer but beware. While they can produce impressive results in the short-term, frequent use can cause long-term problems such as surface erosion, damage, weak points in the slab and can destroy mortar joints.
“And this leaves the surface more likely to suffer from biological and weed growth issues in the future.” He recommended a two-stage approach to try instead.
Mr Kirby explained: “Start by pulling out larger weeds and then leaving a patio cleaner on the surface for 24 hours. Then, use a wet stiff brush to loosen any stubborn patches of mould, algae and dirt, before washing away the debris.”
There are some additional measures you can take to safeguard your patio moving forward. Mr Kirby explained: “To make your life easier in the future, you should waterproof the surface since weeds and biological growth need moisture to grow, and it’s a simple step maintenance step. Use a patio weatherproofing cream to create a waterproof barrier without changing its appearance. By keeping the surface dry, we help to prevent growth.”
Sort out your fence
Winter downpours can also create problems for your fencing. The wet conditions can allow algae, mould and black spot lichen to establish themselves in the gaps of your fence’s wood grain, resulting in discolouration.
However, once again it’s advisable to steer clear of your pressure washer as this can harm the timber. Mr Kirby said: “Brush off the worst of the grime with a stiff brush and leave a soft, non-destructive cleaner for between 1 to 24 hours to kill and loosen biological growth and dirt, washing away with a hose afterwards. Once washed away, the surface will be safe and pet friendly.”
You might also consider giving your fence a bit of extra care. The expert said: “Once clean and dry, protect your fence with a protective sealer. Apply this directly to the surface using a brush or roller, and leave it to absorb into the surface for 24 hours.”
Spruce up your shed
Wooden sheds exposed to the elements can accumulate dirt, grime, algae and mould. Another risk is that heavy rain and falling temperatures can affect the durability of the wood, which can be costly to repair, or you may even need to purchase a new shed.
The outdoor specialist said: “Refresh the surface by applying biocidal cleaner with a pump-action pressure sprayer for even coverage. Then smooth over any textured surfaces using fine sandpaper or a denibbing pad by gently rubbing in the direction of the grain.”
You can also enhance your shed’s appearance by protecting it with a coloured wood preserver. This can be sprayed on for an even finish. You can also use waterproofing cream to reduce warping and prevent rot.
Revitalise your furniture
Another risk with the wet weather is that mould could grow on your garden chairs or other furniture. This is prone to cracking and warping, as well as being unsightly.
Mr Kirby said: “To rejuvenate your weathered patio set and reset it to day one condition, apply an oxalic acid treatment to remove the outer damaged layer and reveal the untouched timber beneath. Once clean, apply a wood preserver and a waterproofing cream to future-proof your furniture against even the worst downpours.”
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