Maintaining Natural Stone Patios: Products from London Stone

At London Stone, we supply a variety of high-quality patio cleaners specifically designed to care for different types of stone and different stains. From natural stone cleaners to specific formulations for challenging stains, understanding these products and how to clean patio slabs effectively can make a substantial difference to the appearance and lifespan of your outdoor space.

How Often Do You Need to Clean Your Stone Patio?

There’s no doubt that some people like the idea of their patio retaining its just-laid appearance, while others enjoy the natural weathering that occurs over time. It is this which will dictate how often you clean your stone patio. As a minimum, to look after your natural stone patio, we recommend cleaning it twice a year, using the right stone cleaners to ensure there is no build-up of dirt, leaves and pollution, and spot-cleaning as necessary.

The Challenge of Delayed Cleaning

If you want to maintain a just-laid look to your patio, then dirt and stains must be removed as soon as possible. The longer they are allowed to remain on natural stone, the more difficult they can be to remove. This is because organic matter breaks down and will be absorbed into the pores of natural stone. For example, wet leaves will stain the surface of the paving slabs if they are not swept away promptly, as you can see in our article on choosing the best patio cleaner.

Once stains are ingrained, they need more than a brush and wash-down to remove them. This is why, just like the inside of your house, your paving will benefit from a regular cleaning routine.

Periodic Maintenance Tips

To keep your patio in top condition, we recommend carrying out the following:

• Regular sweeping: Frequent sweeping of leaves, dirt, and debris can prevent organic materials from decomposing on the stone, which might cause staining and potential damage.

• Spot cleaning: Address spills and marks quickly with the appropriate patio cleaner to avoid permanent staining.

• Care of furniture and pots: Be careful of where furniture and pots sit on your patio. These can trap moisture underneath, leading to staining and algae growth. Moving these items periodically can help prevent this. Find out more about how to prevent your patio from turning green.

Caution About Using a Jet Wash

While a jet wash is effective for cleaning patio slabs, it should be used with caution. High-pressure washing can damage the surface of natural stone or dislodge grouting. In our explanation of how to use a jet wash, we stress the importance of using a lower pressure setting and keeping the nozzle at a distance from the surface. Alternatively, consider a gentle hose and a soft brush as effective tools for patio cleaning without the risks associated with high-pressure water.

The Benefits of Sealing Your Patio

Applying a sealant to your natural stone patio can make regular cleaning easier and more effective. We recommend impregnating sealants to act as a repellent to stains and moisture, which significantly simplifies the cleaning process. For example, sealed surfaces are more resistant to stains from leaves, dirt and accidental spills, which means they can often be cleaned with just mild soap and water as opposed to chemicals and power washing.

Special Considerations for Limestone

A specific note of caution is offered for limestone. Acidic cleaners should be used with caution on all stone, but they should NEVER be used on limestone. They can cause serious damage and discolouration to limestone, often turning it white and dull. Always opt for alkaline solutions for limestone.

Here to Help

For more detailed advice on specific products or additional maintenance tips, contact our team directly. We are always here to help you find the best solution to keeping your patio clean.