How to Care for Concrete Statuary During the Winter

When the temperatures begin to fall in the early winter many gardeners begin to protect and store their delicate plants and vegetation. However, they often forget to winterize outdoor lawn decorations such as birdbaths and concrete statuaries. These concrete materials are porous and wet winter weather followed by freezes will damage them. Completing a few basic tasks before the weather turns cold will ensure your concrete statue survives the winter unscathed.

Bricks or wooden blocks

Rags

Plastic trash bag

Waterproof masking tape or rope

Lift up the concrete statuary, with the help of a friend, and place bricks or wooden blocks underneath it to elevate it above the soil. The bricks or wood blocks only need to be 3 to 4 inches high.

Examine the statuary to see if it has any birdbath areas, bowls or vases that may collect rainwater. If so, pour out any existing water.

Place balled up rags inside the concave cavities of the statute to collect any moisture that may seep in.

Place a plastic trash bag over the concave areas and secure it with waterproof masking tape or rope. This prevents water from collecting in these spaces and freezing which can crack the concrete.

If the concrete statuary is not too large or heavy, the best option is to move it to an indoor location, such as garage, until the spring.