Canadians know more than anyone that the combination of snow, ice, and salt can wreak havoc on any exterior surfaces over the winter. If you’re considered about your newly installed driveway or walkway, you might be wondering how you can best protect it from getting damaged. We’ve got the low down on all the best ways to care for your interlock during the winter season so it can look just as great once the springtime finally arrives.
Only Use a Plastic Shovel
When it comes to safeguarding your interlock, avoid using metal shovels when clearing snow from the surface. Instead, stick with a plastic shovel since they’re lighter and won’t leave any scraps or chips behind on your stones once the snow finally melts.
Use a Plastic Shoe on Snow Blowers
If you use a snow blower once the snow starts to accumulate, be sure to equip it with a plastic shoe. Without it, you can also run the risk of scuffing up the interlock beneath it.
Never Chip Away at Ice
You should never use any heavy duty items like an ice chipper to break away at the ice formed over your interlock — it’s not a frail material, but it can crack and break just like any other concrete/stonework. You can quickly cause damage to your stones and leave unsightly marks in them when enough force is applied.
Use Ice Melt Sparingly
Ice melt products contain some harsh ingredients that can be corrosive and harmful against your interlock stone. If absolutely needed, use sparingly or use a recommended product from your interlock experts to avoid experiencing any damaging effects.
Always Perform Aftercare Maintenance
Once the winter weather begins to taper and the springtime arrives, always give your interlock some aftercare maintenance by pressure washing it thoroughly. If any of the sand happens to wash away during this process, don’t worry. You can just purchase some replacement sand at your hardware store and reapply it wherever necessary.
Keep the Surface as Clear as Possible
To minimize any damage or shifting during the freeze-thaw cycle, keep your interlock as clear as possible from the snow throughout the course of the winter months. Practice doing so right after snowfalls so you don’t allow snow to accumulate.
Keep these tips in mind to care for your interlock during the winter, and it’ll be ready to take on the spring and summer months looking good as new.