Ground Up Pro Tips

A Holiday Message from Tim Dubriske & the Top of the Line Team

As the holiday season arrives and another year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to say thank you to the communities we’re proud to serve. From small repairs to full landscape and masonry projects, your trust in Top of the Line Landscaping means more to us than words can express. Being a local, family-focused company, we don’t just work here—we live here, and that connection drives everything we do.

As winter approaches, Long Island homeowners often prepare by managing leaves, checking heating systems, and winterizing outdoor spaces. But colder weather also brings freeze–thaw cycles, moisture expansion, and ground shifting — conditions that can turn small masonry issues into major structural problems.

Before the first frost hits, take a few minutes to inspect your property inside and out. These seven warning signs can help you catch masonry-related issues early and avoid costly repairs when spring comes.

As the leaves start to fall and November rolls in, we know how important it is to keep your properties looking great. We’ve also noticed a common question that pops up every fall: “Why aren’t we getting a full cleanup every week?”

Let’s talk about that!

When it comes to masonry, most homeowners focus on how a patio, walkway, or retaining wall looks — not how it drains. But the truth is, drainage is the difference between a project that lasts a lifetime and one that starts cracking or shifting within a few years. Whether you’re building a new patio, a driveway, or a stone wall, understanding the role of water management is key to protecting both your investment and your property’s foundation.

When homeowners think about landscaping projects, spring and summer usually take the spotlight. But if you’ve invested in a custom patio, walkway, or driveway, fall is actually one of the smartest times of the year to give your pavers the protection they deserve.

Protect Before Winter Hits

Cool, steady fall weather is ideal for applying a protective sealer. It cures properly without the extreme heat of summer or the freezing temps of winter. By sealing in the fall, you lock out excess moisture and protect against the freeze–thaw cycles that can cause cracks and shifting once the temperatures drop.