How Often Should You Clean Terrace Stone

CONTENTS

• What types of terrace stones are there?
•  Which is the easiest stone to maintain?
• How to clean your stone terrace
• How often should you clean it?
• What to do if your stone terrace still needs cleaning
• Frequently asked questions
• Get in touch

Stone patios are sturdy, stylish and stand up to the elements, but much work goes into maintaining them to retain their pristine look. Each type of terrace stone will require different levels of care and maintenance, but it can be difficult to tell when your stone terrace needs cleaning.

At ICE Cleaning, we offer stone cleaning services specifically tailored to the needs of your stone patio and its material. Our experts are well-versed in stone terrace cleaning and are able to identify the material and what is required to restore its original look.

Read on to learn more about how often you should clean your stone terrace and how to effectively clean it yourself. 

What types of terrace stones are there?

Terrace stones come in a variety, each with unique characteristics. They have different standards of strength and durability, requiring varying types of care. Using the wrong cleaning products or being too harsh with cleaning could be one wrong step towards irreversible damage. Some of the most popular types of stone include:

Concrete pavers

These are among the most popular choices due to their affordability and versatility. Concrete pavers are available in various shapes, sizes, and colours, making them suitable for many design options.

Natural stone pavers

Types of natural stone paving are preferable to other options due to their long-lasting state and durability. They are also easier to maintain for those who struggle to find time to clean their gardens often.

• Flagstone is a natural stone that comes in irregular shapes and is often used for rustic or traditional-looking terraces. 
• Slate pavers offer a more contemporary and elegant appearance with their smooth, flat surface and various colour options. 
• Bluestone is a durable and attractive option with a blue-grey colour that works well in traditional and modern settings.
• Sandstone is a popular and pleasing natural stone option for terrace paving. They are known for their unique appearance, durability, and versatility. 

Brick pavers

These provide a classic and timeless look. They are typically made from clay and come in various colours and patterns. They are usually present in the design of traditional terraces like brick patios.

Travertine pavers

Travertine is a type of limestone that is known for its natural beauty and durability. It has a porous surface, so it is slip-resistant and ideal for pool areas or outdoor spaces where water is present.

Granite pavers 

This natural stone is condensed and sturdy, making it incredibly strong and resilient to severe weather. It is available in various colours and finishes, including polished and flamed.

Marble pavers

Marble adds an upscale and luxurious feel to a terrace. They are available in various colours and offer a polished, smooth surface.

Porcelain pavers

Porcelain is a modern and low-maintenance option. They are highly durable, resistant to staining, and come in various colours and textures.

Cobblestone

These pavers offer a rustic charm. They are typically made from natural stone and come in various sizes and shapes, often with irregular edges.

Which is the easiest stone to maintain?

For a stress-free choice, sandstone is ideal due to its resilience and ease of cleaning. Sandstone has its perks, and due to its porous nature, stains can often wash away with rainfall.

However, even the most resilient stones require maintenance. If your patio starts looking grimy or moss-covered, you have probably been neglecting your garden. You may need to contact professional stone cleaners to step in and assist you with his task.

How to clean your stone terrace

Cleaning a stone patio can seem daunting, but with the correct steps, it is manageable. You will need some essential tools, like a hard bristle brush and an eco-friendly cleaning solution.

To start the process, give your patio a good sweep to eliminate loose dirt. Next up is applying your cleaning solution. Make sure it is safe for natural stones so you do not damage their surface, including nearby wildlife.

Let the cleaner sit on the stones for about 15 minutes before scrubbing vigorously with your stiff brush, breaking down stubborn stains. But do not use too much force as this could cause scratches or even dislodge some of the stonework.

Rinse thoroughly using plenty of water, but do not use a pressure washer; a gentle stream of water from your hose will suffice. If your terrace still requires further cleaning, you should contact a company specialising in terrace stone cleaning.

How often should you clean it?

The frequency of cleaning your patio or terrace depends on a few factors, including the type of stone used and the local climate conditions. For instance, limestone patios in damp areas might need more frequent cleaning due to moss growth. It is advisable to clean your terrace on an annual basis.

You can maintain it to lower the frequency with general gardening techniques like clearing away dirt, grime, moss, weeds, and other growths. Sealing your terrace helps protect against weathering effects such as frost damage and colour fading from sunlight exposure.

What to do if your stone terrace still needs cleaning

Contact professional stone terrace cleaning services if you struggle to clean your patio or terrace consistently, or if the surface still appears dirty. These experts have the correct tools and solutions not readily available to the public, and they can use these efficiently to restore the stone.

Using commercial or domestic pressure washers may only cause further damage and can be dangerous without the correct qualifications. Experts can identify specific types of stone and use their knowledge to clean it correctly.

Frequently asked questions

What's cheaper - slabs or stones?

Paving with concrete slabs is generally more budget-friendly than using natural stone. However, the choice should also factor in durability and aesthetic appeal.

Which terrace stone is best?

The best patio stone depends on your preference and needs. Granite stands out for durability while sandstone offers a range of beautiful colours.

Is it best to lay slabs on sand or cement?

Laying slabs on a mix of sharp sand and cement gives them stability and helps prevent movement over time.

How do you lay a stone on a terrace?

To lay the stone, start by preparing the ground. Next, arrange your stones, then set each one into place firmly with mortar before filling gaps with grout.

Get in touch

Taking care of our patios is not always easy, but with professional help, you can maintain the stone. At ICE Cleaning, our experts offer comprehensive stone cleaning services, where they can restore any stone surface on your property to its original state.

To learn more about our services, you can contact us at 0208 066 0360 or enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk. Whether you need one-off cleaning or scheduled cleaning, our team can attend your property no matter where you are. We operate around the clock, 365 days a year, including bank holidays.