With spring in full swing, Australians are using the time to make the most of their patios, especially those in the Sunshine Coast. People are using the mild weather to spend more time outdoors, whether to eat, work, study or simply relax. This brings a welcome change as many spent the last few months staying at home. But spring also encourages people to carry out tasks and chores around the house.
Use this time to prepare your patio for the wet season. Doing this now gives you more time to identify and address any issues that can compromise its structure and function in harsher weather. Here are some tips to help you keep track of what you need to do.
Step 1: Inspect the patio.
Take the time to inspect your patio and everything in it. It will help you identify areas that need to be repaired, replaced or removed when the wet season comes.
- Check the roof for any cracks, gaps and holes that might lead to leaks and moisture damage.
- Check the roof and support posts for termites, rust and other problems that can lead to corrosion.
- Identify which furnishings will need to be covered or removed to protect them from the rain.
Step 2: Fix the patio.
Once you’ve identified issues that may impact the patio’s structural integrity, carry out the necessary repairs. Although most minor repairs will only take a few hours, major problems might require more professional help.
- Seal minor cracks, gaps and holes with the appropriate material. This will prevent them from growing and causing further damage to the patio.
- Fill in areas that have soil erosion. These pockets can fill up with rainwater and cause the patio’s flooring to lift and crack.
- Remove any plant growth from cracks and the edges of the patio. Treat the soil with herbicide to prevent weeds from growing in the future.
- Apply weather-proofing products on the roof, support posts and flooring to protect them from the elements.
Step 3: Protect your furniture.
Make a list of the furniture and decorations you need to protect once the wet season arrives. It helps you prepare the necessary storage and protective equipment.
- Consider removing furniture a week before the wet season is expected to start. It will prevent your furnishings from getting wet from surprise showers.
- Cover your outdoor furniture with plastic or tarpaulin if they are too large to move. Make sure they are covered well to prevent water damage.
- Store your decorations to keep them safe from the elements. Take down hanging decorations to prevent them from falling and breaking.
Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with a well-maintained patio. Use this structure to help prepare for the harsher weather of the coming months by taking care of it today. Just Patios is your partner in enhancing patio spaces for your family. Whether you want to improve its aesthetic appeal or build a new one in its place, we’re the people to call.
Get in touch with us to find out how we can improve your patio.