A permeable patio won’t stay permeable if you let sand and leaves clog the gaps. A dry‑stacked wall won’t stay straight if you ignore frost heave. Hardscape needs love too.
Chapter 15 provides a maintenance schedule for your built features.
Gravel paths: Rake every few months to redistribute gravel that gets kicked aside. Top‑dress with fresh gravel every 2‑3 years. Pull any weeds that sprout – the landscape fabric underneath eventually degrades.
Flagstone patios (sand‑set): Refill gaps with sand annually – use a broom and hose. Power‑wash gently (low pressure) to remove moss and algae, but avoid blasting out the sand. If stones shift, lift them, add more base, and reset.
Dry‑stacked walls: After heavy rain or frost, inspect for bulges or leaning. Push any shifted stones back into place. Re‑compact the gravel behind the wall if you see settlement.
Wood arbors and decks: Clean annually with a deck brush and mild soap. Apply a natural oil finish (like linseed or tung oil) every 2‑3 years. Never use pressure‑treated lumber containing arsenic or chromium – it’s banned for residential use in many places, but old structures may still have it. Replace rotting boards promptly.
Fire pits: Remove ash regularly and compost it (wood ash is great for soil, in small amounts). Check metal bowls for rust. Keep the area clear of flammable plants.
Outdoor lighting: Replace rechargeable batteries in solar lights every 2 years. Clean solar panels with a damp cloth. For low‑voltage LED, check wire connections after mowing or digging.
Dell’s mantra: “Walk your hardscape every season.” Catch small problems before they become big ones. A few minutes of attention keeps your investment looking good for decades.
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