November in Randolph is that in-between time. Cool days, chilly nights, and the last chance to get your patio and outdoor areas ready before the deep freeze sets in. A few small steps now can save you a lot of work come spring.
1. Seal Pavers and Joints Before the Freeze-Thaw Cycle
Randolph’s fluctuating temperatures make freeze-thaw damage one of the biggest culprits for cracked or shifting pavers. In my experience, most homeowners don’t realize how much water seeps between the joints until spring rolls around and the patio looks uneven.
Before that first hard frost, take a few hours to apply a quality paver sealer. It’ll help block moisture and protect the surface from salt and snow. If the sand between your pavers looks low or washed out, sweep in polymeric joint sand to lock everything in place.
It’s a quick, inexpensive step that can prevent costly repairs later, and trust me, it’s worth doing before the ground freezes solid.
2. Store Furniture and Protect Grills & Fire Pits
Outdoor furniture, fire pits, and grills take a beating over winter. Cold air, moisture, and ice can cause rust, cracking, and discoloration.
I always tell homeowners: anything you can move, move inside. Store chairs, cushions, and small décor in a shed or garage if possible. For larger items, grab a few weatherproof covers and secure them tightly to block out moisture and snow.
If you have a gas grill or built-in fire pit, shut off fuel lines, clean out debris, and cover them up once they’re cool and dry. It’s easy to skip this step, but it makes all the difference when you’re ready to fire them back up in spring.
3. Use the Right Ice Melt for Your Patio Surfaces
Not all de-icers are patio friendly. Some can damage concrete, fade pavers, or harm nearby plants. For Randolph homeowners, I recommend magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). They’re effective at lower temperatures but much gentler on your hardscape surfaces.
At Braen Supply, we carry a full line of safe de-icers for patios and walkways, including bulk and bagged options so you can prep before the first big freeze.
It’s easy to overlook which product you’re spreading, but choosing the right one can save your patio surface from years of wear and tear.
4. Check Your Patio After Winter Ends
Once the snow finally melts, give your outdoor area a quick inspection. Look for signs of:
- Loose or uneven pavers
- Cracks or chips
- Washed-out joint sand
- Water pooling near seating areas or foundations
A little maintenance in early spring can prevent small issues from turning into major repairs. Most homeowners I work with are surprised how much easier it is to fix these things right away rather than waiting until the busy summer months.
Get Your Winterizing Supplies at Braen Supply
Winter in Randolph can be harsh, but a little prep now makes all the difference later. Stop by Braen Supply near Randolph for everything you need to protect your patio and outdoor spaces this season:
- Paver sealers and joint sand
- Safe de-icers and rock salt
- Outdoor covers and snow tools
- Gravel and drainage materials
If you’re unsure what products to use, I’m happy to help you find exactly what works for your setup. Let’s make sure your outdoor space weathers the winter—and looks great when spring returns.
About the Author
Written in the voice of Braen Supply’s in-house expert persona, Reed Coulter. Coulter embodies the collective knowledge of our team and shares practical, straightforward tips to help landscape professionals make the most of their landscaping and masonry projects – drawing on decades of experiences serving New Jersey and the tri-state area.
