How to clean natural stone paving
The first time you see your new paving laid can make the stress of a garden landscaping project worth it. Whether you’ve chosen an option like slate, limestone, sandstone, or granite, these materials are some of the best, most durable available.
Just because they’re durable, however, doesn’t mean they’re resistant to dirt. All kinds of natural paving slabs need regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Luckily, Ovation Landscaping has plenty of experience!
As your local supplier of top-quality slabs, we know all there is to know about how to clean natural stone paving! Today, we’ll cover why it’s so important, what tools and materials you’ll need to get started, and how to start with step-by-step guidance.
Why you must clean natural stone paving
Keep its natural pigmentation and colouring
The appeal of natural stone pavement is that it’s made up of subtle hues and tonal variations, all formed through millions of years of geological processes. But as time passes, surface dirt, leaf staining, and algae may begin to dull these tones.
That’s why routine cleaning with a mild, pH-neutral detergent (mixed with warm water) can reveal colour beneath debris without stripping the stone or bleaching surface pigments. We recommend testing the cleanser out on a small area of your pavement first.
Prevent damage from dirt/algae
When fine grit, sand or organic matter settles in joints or across slab surfaces, they function like tiny abrasives. During rain or underfoot fall, they can erode the surface finish and chip away at your slab’s edges.
It’s especially important to do routine removal of these particles: using a soft to medium-bristle brush should help without damaging the surface.
Extend lifespan
When you’ve invested time and money into natural stone paving, you want it to last as long as possible. Consistent cleaning will slow the accumulation of dirt that leads to structural deterioration, such as joint weakening.
Softer materials (like sandstone and limestone) are especially vulnerable. Conducting general maintenance every few months will preserve its integrity, but occasional use of low‑pressure rinsing can also lift ingrained grime.
What are the different types of natural stone?
Before we get started, it’s time to clear up the main types of natural stone paving. The main four are sandstone, limestone, granite and slate, each having a specific geological class, appearance and performance profile.
Sandstone
Indian sandstone paving usually appears as slabs of warm honey, rust or buff.
They have a moderate porosity,so you’ll need to clean routinely to avoid surface staining. They can withstand high traffic and harsh weather conditions and are well-suited to projects like patios, garden paths and driveways.
Limestone
Limestone is made mainly from calcium carbonate, which gives it a paler, cream to grey palette. It tends to be denser than sandstone, but still absorbs moisture slowly, so again, regular maintenance is necessary. Acidic cleansers can etch or lighten its surface.
Granite
Granite slabs are exceptionally strong. Made from interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar and mica, it’s a coarse, hard surface that is highly resistant to staining, water absorption and heavy traffic.
Slate
Slate is a fine‑grained metamorphic stone made from compressed shale or volcanic ash. It cleaves naturally into flat, smooth sheets and is great for paving. Slate, like granite, has a very low porosity and is highly resistant to stains.
What tools and materials do I need?
So, you want to learn how to clean natural stone paving: where to begin? First, you’ll need to source the right tool and materials.
- Stiff‑bristled outdoor broom
- Weed removal tool (optional but recommended)
- Non‑metal hard scrub brush
- Garden hose with spray nozzle or low‑pressure jet washer
- Applicator or sprayer
- Rubber gloves and safety goggles (optional but recommended for application of cleansers)
- Warm water and mild pH-neutral cleanser
- Garden-safe water-based treatment
- Clean water
- Bucket
How to clean natural stone paving
Now that you’ve gathered the equipment, learn how to clean natural stone paving by following Ovation Landscaping’s step-by-step guide.
- Start by grabbing your stiff‑bristled outdoor broom. Use it to sweep away any leaves, grit and any loose debris. Taking this extra step should stop any abrasive particles from scratching the surface.
- Next, clear any visible weeds between the slabs by removing them at the roots.
- Prepare a warm bucket of water mixed with a mild, acid‑free cleanser and pour it across the slabs. Use a non‑metal hard brush to scrub the surface in sections. Applying the right level of pressure should lift dirt from the stones without scratching the surface.
- Rinse the entire area thoroughly with clean water until no soap residue remains. Repeat the rinse, if necessary, to clear the area of suds and grime.
- If moss, algae or dirt spots are still visible, apply a garden-safe water-based treatment after rinsing. Let it sit for the recommended amount of time before thoroughly re-rinsing: this extra step can prevent long-term re-growth.
- Still noticing ingrained grime or deeper stains? Try using a low‑pressure jet washing set to medium strength. Sweep diagonally across the surface rather than blasting directly down to avoid damage.
- While you might be eager to place plant pots and garden furniture back in their original position, allow the paving to dry completely first.
- You can repeat this process twice a year or once every six months, depending on the level of dirt your slabs accumulate. We recommend once in Spring and once in Autumn, as this is the time organic matter is most rife!
Shop for natural stone paving with Ovation Landscaping!
Ready to start your journey towards a new garden path, patio or driveway?
Do it with your local supplier of top-quality paving slabs: Ovation Landscaping. Our customers receive only the best products for their projects, including concrete block paving, decorative aggregates, and sleepers and posts.
We’re committed to offering you the best solutions to meet your project’s needs and budget, so why not get a head start? Start shopping today, or contact us with any questions.