How to Maintain a Sandstone Paver Patio

A sandstone paver patio is stylistically pleasing and is easily installed. The sandstone paver patio can add value to the home. One major drawback to using sandstone instead of clay, slate or brick, is that sandstone is very easily damaged. If a sandstone paver patio is not properly maintained, the color can fade and the stone itself can crumble and crack. This article will explain how to clean and properly maintain your sandstone pavers yourself.

Step 1 - Clean the Patio

Remove everything that is sitting on top of the patio. This includes plants, tables, chairs, and the grill. The patio should be completely free and clear of anything. Then, sweep off the surface of the patio, to remove loose debris such as dirt, leaves, and twigs. Once the initial sweeping is complete, hose down the patio, to do an initial cleaning. The stones must be completely dry prior to continuing, or you may damage them.

Step 2 - Heavy Dirt

A sandstone paver patio attracts dirt, due to the coarse texture of the sandstone. When you walk on the patio, you can leave mud behind in your wake. This mud will embed itself to the texture and a simple hosing down will not remove it. Mix warm water with several drops of detergent, and then gently scrub the patio. Allow the soap to rest for several minutes before hosing down the surface.

Step 3 - Remove Stains

There is not just one way to remove stains found on sandstone. For organic stains like mold and mildew, use hydrogen peroxide to remove it. For oil, use acetone and for grease stains, mound talc on top of the stain. Each of these methods with the exception of talc is scrubbed on. After several minutes you can hose down the sandstone paver patio.

Step 4 - Finish Joints

When a patio is being built out of sandstone, sand is used as a substitute for concrete or grout. The space between each sandstone paver should be touched up yearly. Pour sand on top of the patio and brush it over the stones and between the joints. Fill the joints up as much as possible and then wet the patio down and apply more sand. Once the sand dries it hardens like concrete.

Step 5 - Seal the Sandstone

Sealing the sandstone paver patio is very crucial to maintaining it over a long period of time. Choose a sealer that is safe for sandstone, and then apply it to the patio using a standard paintbrush. When you apply the sealer, make sure you do so in a very thin layer. It also should be applied with soft and slow strokes, so you do not leave behind streaks. Allow the sealer to dry for an entire day, and then apply a second coat.