Ground Up Pro Tips

After one of the colder, snowier winters we’ve had in recent years across Long Island, many homeowners are finally starting to see the snow and ice melt away. While that’s welcome news, the freeze-thaw cycles that come with long stretches of winter weather can sometimes take a toll on masonry surfaces, especially around pool patios where pavers, coping stones, and brick borders are constantly exposed to moisture.

Heavy snow combined with ice and wind can shift hardscape elements and place extra weight on steps, walls, and stone features. Falling branches and snow buildup can also create unexpected stress points.

As the new year begins, it’s the ideal time to step back and thoughtfully plan the backyard improvements you’ve been considering. While spring and summer are often associated with construction, the most successful projects start well before that—with proper planning, evaluation, and design. Taking the time now allows you to address not just what you want your backyard to look like, but how it should function for years to come.

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.