Sealing and cleaning natural stone

Natural stone paving needs little care, but sealing and gentle cleaning keep it looking good for years.

New paving

• Brush off cement residue with water and a soft brush as you work. Do not leave cement haze to dry on the stone.
• Do not use acid-based cleaners on limestone. They etch the surface. Test any product on an offcut first.
• White salt marks (efflorescence) can appear in the first weeks. Brush them off dry and let rain wash the rest away. Do not seal over them.

Sealing

1. Let the paving and pointing dry fully.
2. Test the sealer on an offcut or a hidden corner. Check how it changes the colour.
3. Apply a penetrating sealer in thin coats following the maker's instructions.
4. Reseal when water stops beading on the surface. This is commonly every few years, depending on use.

Everyday cleaning

• Sweep and brush with a soft broom.
• Wash with water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent.
• If you use a pressure washer, use a low pressure and a wide fan nozzle. Keep the lance moving and keep it away from the joints.
• Treat moss and algae with a stone-safe biocide.
• Avoid rock salt in winter. Use grit or sand for grip instead.

Stains

Act fast. Blot spills, do not rub. For oil or tea stains, use a poultice or a stone cleaner made for the job, and test it first. Seal the paving to make future stains easier to remove.

Planning a new patio? Read how to lay sandstone paving.