Pennsylvania winters can be tough on your outdoor spaces. Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice take a toll on patios, walkways, driveways, and retaining walls. Without proper preparation, winter weather can cause cracks, shifting, and costly repairs. Award Services LLC helps homeowners across the Lehigh Valley, Bucks County, and Montgomery County protect their investments with proven hardscape maintenance and seasonal care.

Why Winter Damages Hardscapes

• Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Water seeps into small cracks, freezes, and expands, causing widening damage.
• De-Icing Products: Harsh salts and chemicals eat away at stone, pavers, and concrete.
• Snow Removal Tools: Metal shovels and plows can chip or scratch surfaces.
• Excess Moisture: Poor drainage leads to ice buildup and long-term erosion.

Hardscape Protection Checklist

1. Seal Surfaces Before Winter

Applying a quality sealant shields pavers, concrete, and stone from moisture and salt damage.

2. Clean and Repair Now

Remove debris, weeds, and stains. Fill small cracks before they spread under frost pressure.

3. Use the Right Ice Melt

Choose calcium or magnesium chloride over traditional rock salt for a safer, less damaging option.

4. Snow Removal Best Practices

Use plastic shovels or snow blowers with rubber blades to avoid surface scratching.

5. Protect Edges and Joints

Re-sand paver joints and secure loose bricks to prevent shifting during freeze-thaw cycles.

6. Drainage Check

Make sure gutters and downspouts direct water away from walkways and patios.

Homeowner FAQs

When should I seal my hardscapes in Pennsylvania?

Late summer to early fall is best, before the first frost.

Can I use rock salt on my driveway or paver walkway?

It’s not recommended. Rock salt causes pitting and surface breakdown. Use calcium chloride instead.

Do I really need to clean my patio before winter?

Yes. Dirt, weeds, and stains can worsen under snow and ice, leading to long-term damage.

Protect Your Investment with Award Services LLC

Don’t let another winter wear down your outdoor spaces. Award Services LLC offers professional sealing, repair, and seasonal hardscape care to ensure your patios, walkways, and driveways look their best year-round.

Call today at 484-282-7721 or request a free estimate online to safeguard your hardscapes before the first snowfall.