Does your natural stone patio need a deep cleaning? Natural stone patios replicate genuine stone’s beauty, benefits, and durability on one surface. So, it’s no wonder they’re becoming more and more popular among homeowners.
However, these patios tend to look dirty even when they’re clean. You may consider deep cleaning this type of patio with a specialized cleaner.
If you’re wondering how to clean natural stone patios, keep reading. Here are all the things you need to know.
Practical Tools to Clean Natural Stone Patios
Natural stone surfaces give your home a contemporary, warm, and rustic vibe. It would be best if you had a few stone patio cleaning supplies to achieve the best results in your patio cleaning routine.
Having suitable materials will make the cleaning process much easier and quicker. You will need cleaning products that are specifically made for natural stone surfaces.
Broom and Dustpan
Use the broom to sweep loose debris like leaves, pebbles, or dirt. Work in small areas at a time, covering the entire stone patio.
Once the larger debris has been removed, use a softer bristled broom to remove finer dirt particles. This will help remove any stains since dirt buildup can be one of the most challenging problems when dealing with natural stone patios.
Once the sweeping has been completed, use a dustpan to collect all debris and empty it away from the patio. This will help keep the deck free of debris buildup and make for easier cleaning in the future.
Garden Hose With a Spray Nozzle
Spraying the stone patio with the garden hose will remove any debris. Make sure to keep the garden hose in a gentle setting so it won’t damage the stone or cause any erosions.
After that’s complete, use a soft brush or a cloth to scrub the stone with a non-acidic cleaner gently. Once the stone is clean, rinse off the patio with the garden hose.
Rinse multiple times to remove the cleaner altogether. Finish by drying the area with a soft cloth or a mop. This will ensure that the patio is completely dry and free of any standing water.
Soft Cloth
Use a soft cloth to gently scrub the patio’s surface to remove any dirt, debris, or mildew. This can be a very effective way of cleaning because the fabric of the cloth will absorb the soapy liquid and not scratch the stone’s surface.
To ensure that no dirt or debris remains, use a soft cloth to dry the patio so that the shine of the stone is restored. Be sure to use a different material for different deck sections so that no dirt or bacteria will spread.
Sponge
A sponge can be used for cleaning such surfaces as granite, marble, and sandstone. Use the sponge to scrub the area in a circular motion. Be sure to rinse the area thoroughly afterward.
Brush
A stiff brush should be chosen so that you can successfully loosen dirt and debris that has settled within the grain of the stone. Make sure that the bristles do not contain particles that may scratch the stone surface. This can be sourced from specialized cleaning stores that stock brushes specifically designed for natural stone.
Start from the left side of the patio and work your way in rows to the right, one row at a time, brushing up and down to remove dirt and debris. Be sure to always brush in the direction of the grain and avoid going against it.
If too much pressure is used, the brush may scratch the natural stone rather than clean it. Therefore, it’s important to use light pressure when brushing.
Alkaline-Based Cleaner
Alkaline-based cleaners are created to break down organic and stubborn stains and dirt that other methods may not be able to. The cleaner must be thoroughly mixed with a few gallons of warm water, then poured into a metal, plastic, or plastic-lined bucket.
Using the wrong cleaning agent could affect the stone’s color or even erode the surface. Once the cleaning agent is applied, give the natural stone patio time to dry thoroughly before using it.
Once the entire patio has been cleaned and dried, your deck should look as good as new!
Hiring a Professional Cleaner for Your Natural Stone Pavers
Hiring a professional cleaner is a great choice to ensure your natural stone patios look pristine and presentable. Not only will they be able to clean, but they’ll also be able to use a sealant to protect the stone from damage.
A professional can vacuum and scrape away any stubborn dirt and debris on the patios. They’ll also use a specially formulated cleaning solution made to remove any tough stains.
A professional can lightly clean the underlying stone using an industrial-strength pressure washer and a specialized broom with soft bristles. Most professionals also recommend resealing stone pavers every two to five years to ensure proper protection. Hiring a professional to clean natural stone patios ensures you’ll have the best and safest results possible.
Importance of Stone Sealing
The importance of stone sealing is significant and should not be overlooked. Natural stones can absorb liquids; they can be permanently stained without protection.
Sealing prevents staining and offers enhanced protection against the deterioration caused by everyday weathering. It is essential to use a product designed specifically for sealing natural stone patios to ensure it will adhere appropriately without discoloration.
For best results, thoroughly clean the stone with a specialized cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application. This will help preserve the longevity of the natural stone and its beauty for years to come.
Start Cleaning Your Natural Stone Patios
Clean natural stone patios require some careful consideration. Following the instructions to wash natural stone, your patio will keep looking exquisite for years.
With the right tools, the job doesn’t take long, and the effort is well worth it! Take a few moments to properly clean your natural stone patio today and enjoy the results for years to come.
For more tips and tricks for your home, check out the rest of our blog!