The majority of Dallas homes have patios because the rocky, uneven ground of bare clay soil in North Texas isn’t great for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors comfortably. And neither are the invasions of fire ants that spring up in exposed dirt. Both challenges make it difficult to enjoy being out in your yard at different times of the year.
That’s why patios, and hardscaping in general, is so popular in Texas -you’ve got to upgrade your yard from bare dirt and grass to be able to make regular use of it.
But, with the pockets of harsh weather that Dallas endures annually, homeowners have to be consistent with patio maintenance to keep their outdoor spaces looking great and in top condition over the years.
The thing is, though, most homeowners haven’t the slightest idea how to care for masonry installations like patios, walkways, and other hardscaping elements. Most people don’t have any masonry experience themselves, and despite most Dallasites living in brick and stone houses, have no real experience with maintaining them correctly.
So, in this article, we’ll address the most important patio maintenance tips to follow to keep your patio (and other masonry) in good condition year after year.
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Why Patio Maintenance Is So Important
Texas’ hot, sunny days, sudden downpours, and freezing winters do damage to outdoor spaces little by little. Add to that the constant foot traffic, spills from barbecues, and furniture scrapes, and it all adds up to a a lot of wear and tear over time.
Maintaining a clean patio, and performing repairs when needed, keep your patio strong and looking great. And looking closely at your patio and inspecting for damage a few times a year will help you catch issues early.
Preventative care for your patio keeps it ready for use when the weather’s nice and keeps you from having to over invest into more serious maintenance due to neglect.
Brick Patios
Brick patios are a classic option for Dallas homes, but they need regular attention to stay in top shape. Watch the mortar joints especially, they’re the glue that holds everything together and one of the weakest and most exposed parts of your masonry.
Sweep regularly to prevent dirt accumulation and use a neutral pH cleaner, such as a white vinegar and water mix, to avoid damaging the bricks. Professional cleaning solutions are great too, just make sure they have a neutral pH balance to avoid damaging your bricks.
In addition to regular cleaning, it’s a good idea to weatherproof your brick patio every few years with a sealant to help it resist weather damage and keep it looking fresh.
Concrete Patios
Concrete patios are tough, but they’re not invincible. Cracks and stains are your main enemies here.
Sweep and wash your concrete patio regularly, and tackle oil stains as soon as they happen. Also, watch for small cracks and use a concrete crack filler early on to prevent bigger issues from developing.
For a real facelift, consider resurfacing or staining your concrete patio every few years. It’ll give your outdoor space a fresh appearance that isn’t too costly.
Stone Patios
Stone patios are naturally beautiful but need special care to keep their charm over the years. Different stones have different needs, so research the right cleaning agents for your masonry and always avoid acidic cleaners (because they will etch the surface of your stone).
Regular sweeping and occasional power washing are good practices to keep stone patios looking sharp. Apply a weatherproofing sealant every couple of years as indicated to seal and protection the stone and mortar joints.
Keep an eye out for loose stones or crumbling grout, and address these issues quickly to prevent structural damage.
How To Keep Your Brick Patio Beautiful
Regular inspections are your best ally when it comes to preserving the look and durability of brick patios. Here’s what to look out for:
Signs of Early Brick Damage
Check for hairline cracks, chips, and discoloration on brick surfaces. While small cracks aren’t a big deal, any damaged mortar should be sealed and monitored. Vertical cracks are especially common and, if small, can be fixed with a repair kit.
Horizontal cracks, though, may indicate settling issues or stem from poor installation. Stair-step cracks are an especially bad sign, as they signal more serious damage -usually shifts in your foundation (very common in Texas).
Prevent Cracks From Spreading
To stop cracks from expanding, seal them promptly with the appropriate masonry filler (concrete crack filler, etc). Installing drains around your patio helps prevent water accumulation, and we generally recommend this as a best practice.
If you do find horizontal or stair-step cracks, it’s time to get help from a masonry expert. This type of issue needs expert repairs to prevent further deterioration that are too specialized for the average DIYer, even if you’re typically pretty handy. The specialized tools and skills that are required mean that you’ll spend any savings from “doing it yourself” on equipment or additional repairs -not worth it.
How To Clean and Seal Brick
Proper cleaning and sealing preserve your brick patio over the long haul. Weather is the greatest enemy of masonry and weatherproofing sealant your secret weapon.
When cleaning, stick to gentle, pH-neutral cleaning agents like a mix of mild dish soap with warm water. Scrub the surface gently with a sponge to remove debris.
For tougher stains, try a solution of white vinegar and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners, as they will erode mortar joints and scar brick surfaces. Always test your cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first, when working with a new mix.
Choose a breathable sealant that allows moisture to escape while repelling water. Apply the sealant every 3–5 years (as indicated), or as needed based on wear and tear.
Make Your Concrete Patio Last For Years
Maintaining a concrete patio doesn’t have to be a chore. A simple maintenance regimen will serve you well in maintaining its beauty and durability year after year.
Watch For Surface Cracks
Surface cracks are the most common issue with concrete patios. They begin as hairline cracks but develop gradually into more serious breaks in the surface. When they are less than 1/8-inch wide, the cracks are still generally only cosmetic and can be fixed easily. Larger cracks, however, require special attention and may indicate underlying problems. If you spot cracks wider than 1/4-inch, it’s time to call a pro.
Patch Holes and Divots
Even small holes and divots will impact your patio’s appearance. To fix this kind of impact damage, a professional will need to clean the area thoroughly and apply a concrete patching compound, then smooth it out with a trowel and let it set.
It’s not the most complicated patio maintenance but, if you want your repairs to appear seamless, a thin layer of resurfacing material will need to be applied over the entire patio surface once the patch is fully cured to hide the repairs.
Preventative Care For Concrete
The type of sealant you use determines your level of protection against weather. In Texas it’s best to use a solvent-based or acrylic sealant with high UV protection that is either sprayed or painted on your concrete patio (typically by professionals).
Resealing your concrete patio every 2–3 years helps maintain full protection. But, high-traffic areas or patios exposed to harsh conditions, may demand resealing more frequently.
To check if it’s time to reseal, sprinkle some water on the surface. If it beads up, your sealant is still doing its job. If it soaks in quickly, it’s time to reapply.
Stone Patio Maintenance Tips
Stone patios look beautiful in any outdoor space, but they are a little higher maintenance than brick or concrete patios. Here’s how to care for your stone patio so it always looks as good as when you first got it.
Sinking or Uneven Surfaces
Uneven stone surfaces can be a trip hazard and an eyesore but it’s very common and happens as the base layer shifts due to settling or erosion.
To fix it, you’ll need to lift the affected stones, level the base, and reset them. Unfortunately, this technique is complicated enough to warrant professional attention. If you discover that the level (slope) of your patio has changed, reach out to a masonry expert right away. The grade (angle of the slope) of your patio is what protects it from standing water and erosion.
Cracks, Chips, and Loose Stones
Freeze-thaw cycles and heavy impacts will are unavoidable over time. Small cracks can be filled with a color-matched epoxy or masonry caulk, and chips, using a repair kit, but loose stones and larger cracks and chips need to be addressed by a professional.
Weatherproofing Stone Surfaces
Resealing frequency depends on your patio’s exposure and use and the type of sealant you choose but, generally, you’ll need to reseal every 3–5 years. You’ll know when it’s time because water no longer beads on your patio surface, absorbing instead, and stains don’t come up as easily.
Get A Free Quote On A Patio Remodel
Regular maintenance can keep your patio looking great for years. But when it’s time for a change eventually, either a resurfacing or a complete overhaul, let Clark Outdoor Designs handle the upgrades to your patio.
We’re a 5-star outdoor living contractor that serves customers all over the North Dallas area, with dozens of patio installations, overlays, and resurfacing projects under our belt.
When you’re ready to speak to an expert, give Clark Outdoor Designs a call. We’ll send someone out to your location for a in-person assessment and a free quote. They’ll listen to your goals, answer your questions, and help you explore your options for a custom patio makeover.
Your patio is an extension of your home — it should be a place you love spending time in. Let Clark Outdoor Designs turn your patio into your family’s favorite place to gather outdoors.
