Patio and Garden Maintenance

Overview

• Refreshes patio surfaces, restores tidy garden hard‑landscapes and gets sliding/French doors running smoothly.

• Skill level: 3 (confident DIYer)

• Typical duration: 4–6 hours hands‑on
  

Safety First

1. Eye protection when cutting, drilling or pressure‑washing.

2. Cut‑resistant gloves for handling glass, metal and paving.

3. Ear defenders if using grinders or hammer drills.

4. Dust mask (FFP2) when brushing out joints or sanding.

5. Isolate electrics before working on powered door gear.
   

Tools & Materials

Step‑by‑Step

1. Clear and pre‑wash surfaces

Why: Removes loose grime for better inspection and cleaning performance.

2. Deep‑clean paving

Why: Lifts ingrained algae and restores slip resistance.

3. Weed, repair and re‑joint

Why: Prevents trip points and keeps slabs locked together.

4. Re‑bed rocking or sunken slabs

Why: Stops wobble and water pooling.

5. Inspect patio door track and rollers

Why: Dirt and burrs are the commonest cause of sticking.

6. Adjust or replace rollers

Why: Correct height and tilt ensure easy glide and seal contact.

7. Lubricate & reseal

Why: Reduces friction, blocks draughts and water ingress.

Completion Checks

• Paving looks even‑coloured, joints flush and firm underfoot.

• No rocking slabs; surface drains without puddles after hosing.

• Patio door slides/hinges with one‑hand effort and locks positively.

• Paper test: sheet held at closed door edge does not flutter (good seal).
  

When to call a pro instead

If door glass is misted inside the double‑glazed unit, the frame is warped, slabs have severe subsidence, or structural lintels show cracks, professional glazing or groundwork expertise is required to ensure long‑term stability and warranty‑safe repairs.