However, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep your paving in great condition. This will extend the life of your pavement, enhancing its longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Today, Beesley and Fildes will walk you through a simple guide to cleaning sandstone paving.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before we dig into it, gather the necessary tools and cleaning supplies beforehand. This includes:

Bucket
Soft bristle brush
Mild detergent
Garden hose or pressure washer
Poultice (optional)
Protective gloves

Preparing the Area

Before starting the cleaning process, remove any furniture or obstructions so that you have full access to the paving.

Using a brush, clear away dirt or debris and inspect the paving for signs of cracks, chips, or wear and tear. If the paving is next to grass, cover it with a plastic sheet to protect the area from runoff.

Before applying any cleaning solution to your paving, test a small area to ensure it doesn't damage or discolour the stone. Wet the sandstone beforehand, as this helps the solution penetrate the stone more effectively.

Basic Cleaning Steps

Once you have prepared the area, follow the next steps to clean your pavement.

Mix the cleaning solution: Mix warm water and a gentle cleaning solution in your bucket.
Apply the solution: Dip your soft bristle brush into the cleaning bucket and apply the soapy water to your pavement.
Scrub the pavement: Using your soft-bristled brush, gently clean the pavement in a circular motion to lift any grime. Pay more attention to areas with heavy soiling and avoid abrasive tools.
Rinse thoroughly: Once you have cleaned an area of your pavement, rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose or pressure washer. Use a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the floor.
Dry the paving: To prevent the spread of dirt, leave the paving to air dry and avoid walking on it until it’s dry.

Dealing with Stains

Stains are a common issue with any paving material due to general wear and tear.

However, to help you combat tough stains, we’ve included the common types of stains and how to address them below:

Organic stains

Moss, Algae, and Lichen appear as black or green patches on paving.

To address these stains, use a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach, ten parts water) and scrub the affected area with a soft-bristled brush. To prevent the issue from returning, use a biocide product.

Rust

Rust appears as brown or orange marks on your pavement, often caused by metal furniture or fixtures.

To remove rust from your sandstone paving, apply a rust remover to the affected area. Scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush to remove the rust, and then thoroughly rinse.

Grease and oil

Grease and oil appear as dark stains on your pavement, often caused by car fluids, cooking oils, or spills.

If the stain is fresh, use a paper towel or clean cloth to blot up any excess fluid. Don’t rub the area, as this can spread the stain and make it more difficult to remove.

Apply a poultice suitable for stone surfaces to draw the oil out of the stone. Allow it to dry, then remove the poultice and rinse with clean water.

Efflorescence

Efflorescence is caused by soluble salts that are brought to the surface by water. This appears as a powdery white residue on your pavement.

To clear this from your sandstone pavement, brush away the powder with a soft-bristled brush and use a specialised efflorescence cleaner for stubborn stains.

Choose Beesley and Fildes for Sandstone Paving

At Beesley and Fildes, we understand how important a visually appealing and functional home is.

That’s why we offer high-quality pavement for competitive prices to help you transform your home without the hassle.

With a variety of sandstone paving options, you can find an option that seamlessly complements your decor.