How to clean Flagstone- A comprehensive guide
Flagstone is a great option for your outdoor living space. It’s easy to install and highly durable. But even though it is less likely to get damaged by environmental factors or insects, your flagstone floor requires maintenance from time to time. Needless to say, it’s a simple way to prolong its life and make your property look clean.
If you want to know the perfect formula of how to clean flagstone, this blog is for you. I’ll describe in detail the steps so you can understand how to clean a flagstone patio like a pro. Plus, I’ve got some tips to ensure it remains in good condition.
Ready to get started?
How to Clean Flagstone Step by Step
Cleaning flagstone patios is not rocket science. Anyone can do it. With the right tools, cleaning products, and techniques, you’ll get the job done in no time.
General Cleaning Technique
Before you start cleaning your flagstone structure, cover nearby plants to prevent them from getting damaged during the process.
All you need is a bucket or container, a scrub brush, some mild dish soap, and a pair of rubber gloves to clean your flagstone patio or walkway.
Now follow these steps to clean the flagstone structure:
1. Put on gloves. Mix a couple of tablespoons of dish soap in a bucket of warm water. Swish the water a bit to ensure the dish soap dissolves completely.
2. Dip the brush into the soapy water and begin scrubbing flagstones. This will help remove dirt from the surface.
Tip: You can also use a pressure washer to clean the flagstones. However, make sure to keep the pressure low. Too much pressure, and you could end up damaging the flagstones. Simply move the pressure washer continuously across the flagstones in a wide sweeping motion. Make sure to keep the washer at an angle of 45°.
Yes, it really is that simple.
How To Clean Stone Patio Covered with Mold
Mold can grow on your flagstone structure, especially if it surrounds your pool. The excess moisture can cause mold and mineral buildup, staining the flagstones and causing them to weather over time. Not only will your patio look unpleasant, but the mold can also make the surface slippery, making it unsafe to use.
If your flagstones are covered in mold and dirty, start by removing the mold first. Then follow the general method to clean the flagstones mentioned above.
Here are some ways you can remove mold from your flagstones:
Use a Flagstone Cleaner
If your flagstone has mold growing on it, one of the easiest ways to remove it is to use a flagstone cleaner. Using a cleaner comes with an added benefit – it helps remove stubborn stains. This helps keep your flagstones in mint condition and last longer.
Use White Vinegar
If you are looking for a natural solution to clean the surface of your flagstones, you can also use white vinegar. Do not use any other vinegar, as it can stain the flagstones.
1. Apply white vinegar to the surface of your flagstones.
2. Let it stand for several minutes. Don’t leave the vinegar on the surface for too long. The acid will damage the finish.
3. Rinse off the vinegar.
4. Scrub the surface with a brush until the mold is removed.
Use Ammonia
Ammonia is an industrial chemical that can damage your skin. Also, check the local community guidelines for safe usage and exposure risks. Things can get tough when it comes to stubborn stains and mold. So if you plan to use ammonia, you must be extra careful. Make sure to wear gloves and follow the safety instructions on the bottle carefully. Add a little ammonia to the bucket of soapy water you made for general cleaning. Continue to scrub the flagstone with a brush and soapy water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with water.
Tip: Avoid Using Bleach
Bleach can effectively remove stains and mold. But it’s something that you should avoid doing. It can harm the environment since it’s toxic to plants, and it can potentially damage the surface of your flagstones and discolor it.
Tips to Maintain Your Flagstone Patio or Walkway
Now that you know how to clean flagstone, here are a few sure shot ways you can ensure it remains in good condition.
1. Sweep Regularly
Sweeping your flagstone patio or walkway is an easy way to keep it clean. It helps remove debris, rocks, and grit that could end up damaging the flagstone pavers. So make sure to sweep the flagstone at least once a week.
2. Seal the Surface
Flagstones are made of porous material. That means they can absorb substances and stain the surface. So, sealing flagstone is an effective way to safeguard it from water damage, prevent dirt and mold build-up, and protect it from wear and tear. Sealing flagstone can help keep maintenance and repair costs down, as well as extend its life.
3. Remove Weeds
Removing weeds is necessary to make your flagstone patio or walkway look nice and tidy. But if these weeds are not removed, they can eventually damage the flagstone structure.
Simply pull out the weeds, taking care to pull out as much of the root as possible. If the weed situation gets out of control, you may have to use a weed killer.
4. Use the Right Cleaning Products
Yes, I know the market is full of flagstone cleaners. So how do you know which one to buy? For starters, ask friends and family that have flagstones for advice. Next, check the contents. Avoid using one with harsh chemicals, as they can damage the sealant coat and ruin the flagstone pavers. And finally, always read online reviews before buying a product.
5. Repair Damaged Flagstone
Since the flagstone is exposed to the elements and encounters regular traffic, they are bound to eventually get damaged. If you notice that the corners have chipped or the flagstones cracked, try to get them repaired as quickly as possible. This will prevent the damage from spreading – the cost of repairs from escalating. The key, however, is to hire the right professionals for the job.
Over to You
Flagstones are commonly used to develop the area surrounding the outside of a home. So if you plan to invest in flagstone, make sure to reach out to us. At NDA Construction, we know exactly how to enhance your landscape and redefine your outdoor space.
And now that you understand how to clean flagstone, you’ll be able to maintain it properly and ensure it lasts a long time.
