10 ways to Prepare your Patio for Fall

As the leaves change and the temperature drops, homeowners everywhere start preparing their properties for fall. It’s especially important to protect your outdoor patio so you can continue to enjoy it for years to come. Here are 10 ways to prepare your patio for the upcoming fall.

Patio Surface

1) Get rid of leaves on your patio surface

Not only are fallen leaves unsightly, they can damage a patio’s surface. Clear your patio from leaves and debris that come with the autumnal season immediately to avoid damaging your hardscape.

2) Sweep and scrub concrete

If the surface is concrete, sweep and scrub it with soap, water and a stiff bristle brush. If the surface is natural stone surfaces you can sweep, rinse, and scrub it with mild detergent. To stay safe, rinse the patio and let it dry completely before walking on it.

3) Power washing may be an option

If your surface is stone or pavers, you may be able to use a power washer to clean it. Ask your local hardware specialist if your surface can withstand power washing – you may damage certain types of materials like marble or limestone.

Patio Furniture

4) Scrub your fabric furniture

You undoubtedly spent a lot of money on your patio furniture – and while it may be built for the outdoors, you need to conduct regular maintenance if you want to lengthen its lifespan. Scrub the cushions and umbrellas with soap and water and keep debris off of chairs, tables and benches.

5) Brush your wicker furniture

If you have wicker patio furniture, brush or vacuum to dislodge and clean off any loose dirt or debris. You can scrub weather-resistant wicker with water and mild soap. You can also purchase furniture covers that will protect them from rain, snow and ice.

6) Wash and store your metal furniture

Wrought iron, steel and aluminum patio furniture can be easily cleaned with soap and water. If you have the capacity, you may want to consider storing metal patio furniture to keep it out of adverse weather.

Patio Grill

7) Disconnecting the propane

When fall comes and it gets too cold to grill any longer, you need to turn off the propane and disconnect the hose that connects it to the grill.

8) Clean your grill

Once you have the propane unhooked, clean the grill with a stiff-wired brush and a heavy-duty grill degreaser. Make sure it fires up right away next season by cleaning out all of the extra grease and grime that can plug up holes and develop bacteria.

9) Cover your grill

Once it’s clean, cover your grill with a weather-resistant grill cover to protect it from the elements. You can find a universal cover at almost any big box store, or search the Internet for a model-specific cover. Whatever you choose, confirm that it fits snuggly around the grill so it doesn’t blow off.

Patio Planters

10) Get your plants ready for fall

Preparing your plants for cold weather will help them grow strong again next year. In the fall, continue to water your planters, but do not fertilize any plants. You don’t want to encourage new growth as the first frost approaches.

Bonus: 11) Choose durable planters

If your planters are made out of terracottas or a thin plastic, it might not survive a harsh fall and winter. Make sure your planters are made from a durable material like metal, stone, or a thick wood or plastic.

Now that you have these 10 ways to prepare your patio for the fall season, you’ll add a layer of protection that will let you enjoy it long into the future.