Preparing Your Hardscape & Drainage for Tennessee Winters

Oct 11

In Tennessee, winter brings cycles of freezing and thawing that can stress patios, walkways, retaining walls, and drainage systems. October is the time to prepare. With proactive maintenance and preventive work, you can avoid costly damage come spring.

Let’s explore how to winterize your hardscape and drainage elements, especially in Sumner & Robertson County.

1. Inspect & Repair Hardscape Surfaces

Walk your patios, walkways, and retaining walls—look for cracks, shifting pavers, settling, or loose stones
Reset or re-level any uneven pavers
Fill cracks with polymeric sand or suitable sealant to prevent water infiltration and freeze damage
Clean off debris, algae, moss, and plant growth that could worsen cracks

2. Seal Surfaces (Where Appropriate)

Use a breathable sealer suited to your material (stone, pavers, concrete)
Do this before temperatures regularly dip below 40°F
Sealing helps prevent water intrusion and freeze-thaw damage

3. Clear & Test Drainage Systems

Clean out gutters, downspouts, and surface drains to ensure free flow
Flush or pressure-clean drainage lines
Check that grading around your home and hardscape slopes away from foundations
Inspect existing French drains, swales, or dry creek beds; clear blockages

4. Add or Adjust Drainage as Needed

If you have low spots or standing water near hardscape, consider adding surface drains or catch basins
Regrade slightly to direct water away from patios or walls
Install or update perforated pipe systems or sub-surface drainage where needed

5. Winter Freeze Protection Tips

Avoid deicing salts near stone or masonry—these can damage surfaces
Use magnesium chloride or pet-safe deicers when needed
If heavy snow/ice accumulates, sweep or use a plastic shovel (avoid metal)

6. Plan Hardscape Projects Now for Early Spring

October is ideal to design and prep for spring installation of patios, terraces, walls
Ordering materials ahead helps beat spring demand
Ensure any new installations include proper drainage planning from day one

Conclusion

Your hardscape and drainage systems are foundations of a safe, functional yard. Taking steps in October can prevent freeze-thaw damage, water issues, and costly repairs. At Eagle Landscape, our Hardscaping & Stonework and Grading & Drainage teams can inspect, repair, and prepare your outdoor investment. Contact us for a winter-prep evaluation today.