The Changing Seasons of Colorado
As the owner of A Better Edge, I’ve seen firsthand how Colorado’s dramatic seasonal changes can affect landscape edging. From spring’s snowmelt to summer’s intense sun, fall’s leaf accumulation, and winter’s freeze-thaw cycles, your landscape edging faces unique challenges throughout the year. Proper seasonal maintenance extends the life of your edging and enhances your property’s curb appeal and functionality.
Colorado’s climate presents distinct challenges for landscape edging. With temperature swings of 40+ degrees in a single day, we need edging solutions that can withstand expansion and contraction without cracking or shifting. Our concrete edging services are specially formulated to endure these conditions, but even the most durable installations benefit from seasonal attention.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share professional seasonal maintenance tips for landscape edging that will help you preserve your investment and keep your borders looking sharp year-round.
Spring: Renewal and Repair
Assess Winter Damage
After Colorado’s harsh winter months, spring is the perfect time to evaluate your landscape edging for signs of damage. The freeze-thaw cycles that characterize our winters can be particularly tough on edging materials.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Spring Assessment:
- Walk your property’s perimeter to check for cracks, heaving, or separation in concrete edging
- Look for areas where soil has eroded from beneath or behind edging
- Check for loose or displaced sections that may have shifted during freeze-thaw cycles
- Inspect for staining from road salt or snow-removal chemicals
- Document any damage with photos to track changes over time
Spring Cleaning for Edging
Winter debris accumulation can damage edges and promote weed growth. A thorough spring cleaning helps prevent these issues.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Spring Cleaning:
- Remove accumulated leaves, pine needles, and debris that collected over winter
- Gently pressure wash concrete edging to remove salt residue and winter grime
- Clear drainage channels to prevent water pooling that could undermine edges
- Trim grass along edging lines using hand shears for precision
- Apply an environmentally friendly pre-emergent weed control along edges
Spring Repair and Refinishing
Spring is ideal for addressing minor issues before they become significant problems.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Spring Repairs:
- Fill small cracks in concrete edging with appropriate concrete patching compound
- Reset any sections that have heaved or shifted
- Reapply sealant to concrete edging if showing signs of wear
- Touch up decorative concrete edging with appropriate stains or colorants
- Consider professional maintenance service for extensive repairs
“Spring maintenance is an investment that pays dividends all year. A small repair now prevents a major replacement later.” – Chad, Owner of A Better Edge
Summer: Protection and Preservation
Heat and Sun Protection
Colorado’s intense summer sun can be harsh on landscape features. High-quality concrete edging from A Better Edge is designed to withstand UV exposure, but additional protection can extend its life.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Summer Protection:
- Apply UV-resistant sealant to decorative concrete edging
- Create shade for vulnerable sections with strategic plantings
- Monitor irrigation systems to prevent oversaturation near edging
- Check for expansion-related cracks during extreme heat
- Schedule professional evaluations for any concerns about heat-related damage
Weed and Pest Management
Summer increases biological activity that can threaten your landscape edging’s integrity and appearance.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Summer Weed Control:
- Manually remove weeds growing along edging before they establish deep roots
- Apply targeted herbicide treatments for persistent weed problems
- Create maintenance strips alongside edging in high-growth areas
- Install landscape fabric beneath gravel or mulch alongside edging
- Consider professional weed barrier installation services for problem areas
Summer Irrigation Considerations
Proper watering practices protect your landscape edging from erosion and soil movement.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Summer Irrigation:
- Adjust sprinkler heads to prevent direct spray on concrete edging
- Monitor for erosion around edging after heavy summer storms
- Install drip irrigation instead of sprayers near edging to reduce erosion
- Check for proper drainage away from edging foundations
- Consider professional drainage solutions for problem areas
Summer Landscape Services Evaluation
Summer is the ideal time to assess if your current landscape edging meets your needs or if upgrades would enhance your property.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Summer Evaluation:
- Note areas where grass consistently crosses edging boundaries
- Identify sections where edging height may be insufficient
- Consider upgrading plastic or wood edging to concrete for more excellent durability
- Evaluate whether decorative options like stamped concrete edging would enhance curb appeal
- Contact A Better Edge for a professional consultation on landscape services and options
Fall: Preparation and Protection
Leaf Management
Fall leaves can cause significant issues for landscape edging if not correctly managed.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Fall Leaf Management:
- Remove fallen leaves regularly from edging borders
- Use a leaf blower to clear debris from decorative concrete edging details
- Check that leaf accumulation isn’t creating moisture traps against edging
- Inspect drainage channels for leaf blockages
- Consider a professional fall cleanup service for comprehensive care
Soil Stabilization
Fall is the time to address soil movement before winter freeze sets in.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Fall Soil Work:
- Add soil to low spots alongside edging that may collect water
- Compact soil that has settled around concrete edging
- Regrade areas where water pools against landscape borders
- Install erosion control measures on slopes near edging
- Consider professional soil stabilization services for persistent problems
Pre-Winter Sealant Application
Applying sealant before winter provides critical protection against moisture infiltration.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Fall Sealing:
- Clean concrete edging thoroughly before application
- Choose a penetrating concrete sealer appropriate for Colorado’s climate
- Apply when temperatures are between 50-70°F for optimal absorption
- Ensure complete coverage of all concrete surfaces, mainly top edges
- Consider professional sealant application for optimal protection
Fall Inspection Checklist
A comprehensive fall inspection helps identify issues before winter makes them worse.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Fall Inspection:
- Check for loose or unstable sections that may heave during freeze-thaw cycles
- Identify and repair hairline cracks before moisture can penetrate
- Test edging stability by applying gentle pressure at various points
- Look for areas where soil has eroded beneath edging
- Schedule repairs before winter weather arrives
Winter: Protective Measures
Snow Removal Practices
Improper snow removal can severely damage landscape edging.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Winter Snow Removal:
- Marked the edging boundaries with reflective markers before the first snowfall
- Use plastic snow shovels rather than metal when clearing near the edging
- Set snowblowers high enough to clear snow without damaging edging
- Create snow piles away from decorative concrete edges
- Consider hiring snow removal services, familiar with landscape protection
Salt and De-Icer Management
Chemical de-icers can damage concrete edging through corrosion and scaling.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Winter Chemical Use:
- Use sand instead of salt near concrete landscape features
- If de-icers are necessary, choose calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) products
- Avoid magnesium chloride products near concrete edging
- Rinse edges with water during winter warm spells to remove salt residue
- Consider professional concrete sealing services before winter
Freeze-Thaw Protection
Colorado’s fluctuating winter temperatures create expansion and contraction that can damage edging.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Freeze-Thaw Cycles:
- Ensure proper drainage away from edging before freezing temperatures arrive
- Remove standing water from concrete surfaces before nighttime freezes
- Apply winter-specific concrete sealants in late fall
- Avoid using metal tools to chip ice from edging
- Consider professional concrete treatment services for valuable decorative edging
Winter Monitoring Schedule
Even when your landscape is dormant, regular checks can prevent problems.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Winter Monitoring:
- Inspected the edging after significant temperature swings
- Check for heaving or displacement after deep freezes
- Watch for signs of erosion during winter thaws
- Document any developing issues with photos
- Contact landscape services professionals for mid-winter repairs if necessary
Specialty Seasonal Considerations for Different Edging Types
Concrete Edging Seasonal Care
Our most popular and durable option requires specific seasonal attention.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Concrete Edging:
- Spring: Check for winter cracking and apply patch compounds as needed
- Summer: Protect from irrigation overspray and monitor for settling
- Fall: Apply penetrating sealers before freeze-thaw cycles begin
- Winter: Mark boundaries for snow removal and use gentle ice removal techniques
- Year-round: Clean stains promptly and avoid impact damage from equipment
Concrete Flagstone Edging Care
Decorative concrete flagstone borders need special protection to maintain their aesthetic appeal.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Concrete Flagstone:
- Spring: Clean thoroughly and check for winter-related shifting
- Summer: Apply UV protectant sealers to prevent color fading
- Fall: Fill joints between sections with polymeric sand before winter
- Winter: Avoid salt-based de-icers that can damage decorative surfaces
- Year-round: Protect from heavy equipment during landscape maintenance
Concrete Pathways Maintenance
Pathways experience different wear patterns and require tailored maintenance.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Concrete Pathways:
- Spring: Inspect for cracking from frost heave and repair promptly
- Summer: Check for weed growth in joints and treat accordingly
- Fall: Clear debris from drainage channels alongside paths
- Winter: Use plastic snow removal tools and gentle de-icers
- Year-round: Address staining from organic materials quickly
Concrete Walls Seasonal Care
Retaining walls face unique structural pressures that change with seasons.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Concrete Walls:
- Spring: Check for winter drainage issues behind walls
- Summer: Inspect for soil erosion at wall bases
- Fall: Clear drainage systems before freeze risks
- Winter: Monitor for ice formation behind walls
- Year-round: Watch for signs of shifting or bulging
Commercial Services and Seasonal Maintenance Programs
Professional Maintenance Packages
For commercial properties, regular professional maintenance protects valuable landscape investments.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Commercial Properties:
- Schedule quarterly professional inspections of all landscape edging
- Develop a custom maintenance calendar based on property-specific needs
- Budget for annual sealing and repair of high-visibility concrete edging
- Coordinate landscape services with snow removal contractors
- Document all maintenance for insurance and property value purposes
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Professional Maintenance
Professional maintenance often provides significant cost savings over time.
| Maintenance Approach | Initial Cost | 5-Year Cost | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Basic Care | $100-200/yr | $500-1,000 | 8-15 years |
| Professional Seasonal | $400-800/yr | $2,000-4,000 | 15-30 years |
| Neglected Maintenance | $0 | $0 + Replacement | 3-6 years |
Note: Costs reflect average pricing for a typical residential property with 250 linear feet of concrete edging
Seasonal Maintenance Contracts
A Better Edge offers comprehensive maintenance contracts tailored to Colorado’s seasons.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Contract Customers:
- Spring inspection and repair service: $20-40 per linear foot
- Summer protection treatments: $16-30 per linear foot
- Fall weatherproofing service: $12-24 per linear foot
- Winter protection consultation: $16-26 per linear foot
- Annual all-season maintenance package: $70-100 per linear foot (savings of 15-20%)
DIY vs. Professional Seasonal Maintenance
When to Call the Professionals
While property owners can handle many maintenance tasks, some require professional expertise.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Professional Intervention:
- Structural cracks wider than 1/8 inch
- Sections that have heaved or settled noticeably
- Damage to decorative concrete finishes
- Areas with recurring drainage issues
- Edging that requires complete replacement
Tools and Products for DIY Maintenance
These tools will help you care for your landscape edging for essential seasonal maintenance.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for DIY Equipment:
- Soft-bristle brush for cleaning concrete surfaces
- Plastic snow removal tools for winter protection
- Quality concrete sealer appropriate for Colorado’s climate
- Concrete patch compound for minor repairs
- Hand pruners for precision trimming along edges
Conclusion: Investing in Seasonal Care
Proper seasonal maintenance of your landscape edging is an investment that pays dividends in property value, appearance, and longevity. Colorado’s extreme climate demands a thoughtful, season-by-season approach to care.
At A Better Edge, our landscape services cover everything from installation to ongoing maintenance of concrete edging, flagstone, pathways, and walls. We understand the unique demands of Colorado’s environment and design our maintenance programs accordingly.
Remember that preventative maintenance is always more cost-effective than replacement. By following these seasonal maintenance tips and partnering with experienced professionals when needed, you’ll enjoy beautiful, functional landscape edging for decades.
Contact A Better Edge today for a personalized seasonal maintenance plan tailored to your property. Our landscape services team is ready to help you preserve and protect your outdoor investment throughout every Colorado season.
A Better Edge – Creating and maintaining beautiful borders for Colorado homes and businesses since 2010.
More info can be found on the Colorado General Assembly about SB24-005: Prohibit Landscaping Practices for Water Conservation.
