NATURAL PAVING AND LOOKING AFTER IT
Category: Landscaping
Published: 23/04/2021
Natural stone for patios or any landscaping projects is beautiful and you can create effortlessly stunning and unique patio landscapes, that will last you a long time due to natural stones durable qualities. Choosing the right material to update your existing patio or create a new patio is very important. We suggest selecting natural stone because of its durable and aesthetical nature.
We have a selection of paving stones you may consider - from natural stone, porcelain paving, concrete paving and block paving. Have a further look on our website and find the look to suit your garden.
Different environmental conditions can result
in circumstances that lead to a change in the
appearance of natural stone; this may sometimes
be a stain or surface discolouration. Depending upon
the type of stone and discolouration or stain that
appears there are potential solutions.
Green Staining | Efflorescence |
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Appearance and Causes - Caused by shaded areas on the paving which cannot dry
- Poorly drained areas where water can sit
- Damp areas which moss and algae can thrive
- Extract from fallen leaves which have been left in place
- Staining is usually green in colour, has also been known
to be yellow and black
| Appearance and Causes - Typically a naturally occurring phenomenon where salt
from
the bedding materials migrates up through the
stone and
appears on the surface - Will leave white marks on the surface of your stone.
|
Prevention and Solutions Regularly sweep your paved area to avoid any growths
from
taking hold. Only use soft bristled brushes on natural
stone,
as wire brushes will scratch the surface Regularly maintain overhanging shrubbery to allow sunlight
and air onto the paved area Once staining has occurred, there are specialist and
general
cleaners on the market which can tackle this
type of problem.
| Prevention and Solutions Typically occurring shortly after laying, this cannot be
prevented
as this is a natural occurrence It may wash away over time with weathering Specialist and general cleaners are on the market which
are known
to tackle this issue. Check the data sheet for compatibility with your stone
and carry out
a trial area first |
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your new natural stone area is recommended to keep the area looking
its best. There are various cleaners available on the market. Some cleaners specialise in dealing with specific
types of stains, and others are general cleaners.
We recommend you brush your paved area regularly as well as cleaning it from time to time. Ensure you use a soft
bristled brush when sweeping your paved area, as tougher wire brushes could scratch the stone.
Brushing the stone will provide the safest option for keeping the stone clean, using water with a neutral pH soap or
detergent should be sufficient for routine maintenance. Power washers may be too powerful and cause damage to
the surface of the stone and the mortar joints. If they are used do so with great care and at your own risk.
Strongly acidic or alkaline cleaners may also cause severe damage to the stone and create other environmental
problems.
Always check the instructions on the product before using it to clean your natural stone.
Before using any cleaning products on your natural stone test a small, discreet area of paving first to make sure you
are happy with the result.
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