How to clean and seal paving stone

Paving stone makes any walkway, patio and driveway look beautiful. Not only does it give your home curb appeal, installing it will also bring up the value of your home. In order to maintain your paving stone, it is important that you know how to clean and seal it.

If there is a great deal of foot traffic on your paving stone, they can fall victim to wear and tear or they can be stained with mud, oil spills, and salt. When you know how to properly maintain paving stones, they will remain looking great throughout their long life!

If there is a great deal of foot traffic on your paving stone, they can fall victim to wear and tear or they can be stained with mud, oil spills, and salt. When you know how to properly maintain paving stones, they will remain looking great throughout their long life!

Cleaning Paving Stone

Cleaning paving stone is relatively simple, and should be done often. Routine cleaning will keep dirt from becoming embedded in the stones. Begin by using a garden hose with a spray.

• TIP: If there is a great deal of dirt embedded in the stones, or stubborn dirt, you can use a pressure washer. Cleaning interlocking pavers with a pressure washer will allow you to avoid using detergents which can damage the stone. Because a direct spray with a small nozzle can damage the surface of the stones, you should use hot water and a fan spray.

Next, sweep the pavers with a broom. This will replace any sand that was removed from the pressure washer.

• TIP: If you are going to use a detergent, test a small amount in the corner to make sure that it will not discolor your paving stone. You should apply the cleaner using a brush, broom, or a paint roller. Allow the cleaner to set for about 5 minutes. If you need to scrub the stones, you should use a broom or a pressure washer.Finally, rinse with a garden hose.

Finally, rinse the paving stones with a garden hose.

• TIP: You should clean your paving stone at least once a month. If you find that you need to clean it more than once a month, you should wash it with water only. You do not want to overuse detergent when cleaning paving stone. Be sure to consult manufacturer’s instructions when using paving stone cleaners or shampoos, as some brands follow slightly different processes.

Sealing Paving Stone

After you have finished cleaning paving stone, you may want to seal it. The sealant will protect your paving stone and makes cleaning easier. In many cases, sealer will keep you paving stones looking like new. Before you seal your paving stone, you should check the weather forecast. If there is going to be rain within 36 hours after you apply the sealer, you should wait. It is best for the sealer to dry at least 36 hours.

When choosing your sealer, there are three options, each offering a different result:

• Saliane or Siloxane will repel water
• Sodium or lithium silicate densifer will strengthen the pavers
• 100% acrylic lacquer will give your pavers a high gloss finish and a wet look

To apply the sealer, you should use a roller or a sprayer. The method that you use will depend on the sealer that you use. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine which method you will be using. For best results, you should apply two coats of sealer. Allow the first coat to dry for 24 hours, before applying the second coat.

It is not necessary to apply a sealer each time you clean paving stone. Depending on type of sealer and wear/traffic of your paving stone, reapplication of sealer is only necessary every 1-4 years.

Get More Paving Stone Tips from the Experts at Grand River Natural Stone

Paving stones are a great landscape accessory which adds value and personality to your property. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that they last for a long time – in both appearance and function.

If you want more tips on taking care of your paving stones, just ask. Contact the Grand River Natural Stone location near you and request a quote or consultation.