Soil, salt, moss and tire tracks commonly
disfigure outdoor stone terraces, pool decks, walkways and walls. The
homeowner can clean dirt and moss from outdoor stone with a brush and a
few cleaners manufactured especially for outdoor conditions. Cleaning
large areas is economical and faster when done by a professional with
appropriate equipment.
The first step is to describe the environment of
the stone. Is it exposed to the weather? Is it exposed to salt spray
(even several blocks from the sound)? Is a northern exposure supporting
moss, mould or mildew? Is the stone stained with spilled food and sun
tan lotion? Does an adjacent planted area drain dirty run off on to the
stone?
Some stone retailers sell stone cleaners that will
clean light soil, but the above conditions require a cleaner formulated
for the specific conditions. Professional cleaning and sealing of
outdoor stone can protect against soil, spills and the growth of moss,
mould and mildew. Routine cleaning with a stone cleaner are adequate
between scheduled professional cleanings and resealing.
The best results can be obtained by using the
right materials before soil accumulates. The best cleaner is a pH
neutral cleaner formulated for cleaning natural stone. These cleaners
are usually harmless to the environment. Stone cleaners are available
from many stone retailers. They are highly concentrated, and are
actually economical to use.
Use only tools with plastic and soft fiber parts.
Do not use abrasive cleaners; they will scratch the stone. Do not use
thick, creamy cleaners; they will stick in the natural pours of the
stone. Soft brushes, soft sponges and soft, natural cloths are ok.
Dilute 1 or 2 ounces of the stone cleaner in a 3 to
5 gallon bucket of clean, warm water. Fill another bucket with more
clean, warm water. Apply the cleaner with the brush, and then rinse the
dirty brush in the second bucket of rinse water. Vacuum up the dirty
water or rinse with a hose.
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