Pavers are perfect for Quebec winters. Thick and compact, they resist freeze-thaw cycles better than poured concrete. Paved spaces require very little maintenance in the winter. However, here are a few tips that will help you keep them in good condition for a very long time.

plastic-shovel_en

Choose Plastic Shovels

Once snow covers your paved surface, avoid using metal shovels to remove it. Instead, use plastic ones. Unlike metal shovels, plastic shovels do not leave scratches on pavers when rubbing against them. They also have the advantage of being lighter and easier to lift. If you hire a contractor to do snow removal, make sure their equipment has nylon or Teflon blades, not metal blades.

Use Ice Melts with Caution

Ideally, we should all try to avoid using any chemical products. In addition to being potentially damaging to pavers, these products are harmful to the environment and to animals. Having said that, let's be realistic. It is difficult to do without them entirely. If you have to use ice melts, follow these few simple guidelines to avoid any problems:

  • Read the package instructions carefully and avoid spreading more than the recommended amount.
  • To minimize their use, you can mix these products with sand.
  • Make sure to only use where necessary, such as driveways and house entrances.
  • Finally, be sure to use ice melts only for melting ice, not snow. Before spreading these products on the ground, remove as much snow and ice as possible with a shovel and when this step is completed, spread the ice melts.

In short, whether it is salt or a chemical variation, these products can damage your pavers. They should therefore be used sparingly.

There, you are ready for the winter. All that's left is to receive the first snowfall... When spring comes, the pavers will have to be cleaned and prepared for summer.