Here in the Boston area you need to keep an eye on your hardscaping features - things like stone patios, walkways, wood deck and retaining walls - winter through harsh cold and extreme conditions from November to February and sometimes beyond. What should you expect from these elements of your yard over the winter? And how can you help them to remain durable without resorting to back breaking maintenance?

Watch What Covers the Surface

Massachusetts winters are long, and if a potentially harmful substance or material sits on your stone patio or wood deck over the season, you're bound to find damage when the snow melts. Try not to leave metal furniture outside unprotected, not only because it will corrode, but also because that corrosion will stain the hardscaping. Scrubbing off rust stains is not how you want to spend the first few weeks of nice weather.

You'll obviously need to clear the snow from your walkways, driveway and sidewalk for safety. But what about the wood deck or patio? Although there's really no harm in either clearing the area or leaving the snow as is, there are some benefits to leaving some of snow on these unused surfaces. Snow coverings cut down on fading for your wood or composite deck, and a blanket of insulation will keep the stones on your patio warmer.

Always be sure to use ice melting products that are formulated for use with stone and/or wood. Some corrosive products will severely deteriorate your hardscaping in only one season, and repairs can be costly.

Installation Is Key

Quality installation is the most important factor to consider when looking at how well your hardscaping will behave this winter. Patios and other stone or paved surfaces installed with an adequate base and proper drainage are designed to last through the winter. Well built wood or composite decks rest on concrete piers that reach below the frost line for stability and strength.

Hire a professional contractor to install your hardscaping whenever possible. Their expertise and careful work will ensure your outdoor features make it through the winter unscathed.