Summer is well and truly over and while the weather has cooled down, and the days have gotten darker, it's not too early to start preparing for spring. 

If you’re a proud owner of a patio or decking and want to keep it that way, now’s the time to get your patio protection in so that your space looks top notch by next year.

Emily Green, expert at Howarth Timber, has shared her top tips on how to protect your patio and decking from the mould and rotting that the winter weather threatens to bring.

The first and most important thing you need to do is make sure your patio is free from leaves and debris.

Although red and orange leaves scattered across your garden can contribute to the autumnal aesthetic, it is more important to keep them swept away for the good of your decking.

If leaves are left to rot in the winter weather, their mould can not only stain your patio, but contribute to the growth of mould and mildew in your decking.

Next, you should try and store any outdoor furniture somewhere dry such as a garage or basement. Failing that, try wrapping your furniture in tarpaulins to stop rain from getting in and rotting your decking below.

Once your deck is clear and your furniture is away or covered then you can move on to the fun part - power washing.

Use a power washer or garden hose to remove any dirt or grime. To remove as much debris as possible, aim the sprayer straight at extremely contaminated areas.

However, there is a craft to power cleaning, so if you're using a power washer, take great care - they can quickly damage the wood and make it harder to reseal. Select the lowest setting and leave at least a few feet between the spray nozzle and the deck's surface.

Once you’ve sprayed the area down you can go the extra mile by hand washing with a mixture of dish washing liquid and warm water to make sure the wood is clean before leaving it to dry. 

Once dry, give the deck one final sweep before resealing the wood to stop any mould or mildew creeping in over the winter. 

By following these essential maintenance tips, you can preserve the beauty and safety of your outdoor space for years to come,  and make sure you can host as many garden parties as you desire.