Pros and Cons of Sealing Natural Stone Pavers

Key Benefits of Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone pavers are a premium choice for hardscaping that offers a number of significant benefits, combining timeless beauty with exceptional durability.Unlike manufactured products, each piece of natural stone is unique, providing a character that can’t be replicated.

  • Unmatched Aesthetics and Character:Every natural stone paver has a distinctive pattern, color variation, and texture, telling its own geological story.This creates a one-of-a-kind, organic look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.They also age beautifully, developing a natural patina over time that adds to their charm.
  • Exceptional Durability and Longevity:Natural stone is incredibly strong, with some types like granite having a compressive strength up to 8,000 PSI, far exceeding that of concrete pavers.This makes them highly resistant to cracking, weathering, and heavy foot or vehicle traffic. They are built to last for decades, often outliving the home itself.
  • Low Maintenance:Once properly installed, natural stone requires minimal upkeep.It is highly resistant to fading, and unlike wood, it is impervious to rot and insects.Occasional sweeping and a periodic wash are typically all that’s needed to maintain its beauty.
  • Slip Resistance:Many types of natural stone, such as bluestone and flagstone, have a naturally textured surface that provides excellent traction, even when wet. This makes them a safe choice for pool decks, walkways, and patios.
  • Eco-Friendly:As a natural resource quarried from the earth, stone requires minimal processing, making it an environmentally conscious choice.It is also recyclable and can be repurposed, reducing waste.
  • Increases Property Value:The unique and high-end look of a natural stone patio or walkway is a highly desirable feature for potential homebuyers, significantly enhancing your property’s curb appeal and value.

Common Types of Natural Stone Pavers

  • Bluestone:Known for its striking blue-gray tones, bluestone is very dense and durable.It is a popular choice for both traditional and contemporary designs and holds up exceptionally well in cold climates with freeze-thaw cycles.
  • Flagstone: This is a broad category of stone cut into irregular, flat slabs. Its organic, rustic appearance is perfect for garden paths and patios, creating a natural and informal look.
  • Limestone:Used for centuries in architecture, limestone offers a classic, uniform appearance with soft, neutral tones. It’s often chosen for its smooth texture and ability to stay cool underfoot.
  • Travertine:With its distinctive porous surface, travertine is a popular option for pool decks and other areas where heat resistance is crucial.It stays cool and is naturally slip-resistant.
  • Granite:One of the hardest and most durable stones, granite is highly resistant to scratches and stains.It’s an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like driveways due to its strength.

Maintaining natural stone pavers is a straightforward process that helps preserve their beauty and longevity. A consistent routine of cleaning and proper stain treatment can keep your hardscape looking new for years.

General Maintenance and Cleaning

  • Routine Sweeping: The most important step is to regularly sweep away loose debris like leaves, dirt, and dust. This prevents organic material from breaking down and causing stains, and also stops weeds from taking root in the joints.
  • Washing: For a more thorough cleaning, a simple mixture of warm water and a pH-neutral stone cleaner is highly effective. You can also use a few drops of mild dish soap, but be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving a residue that can attract dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or vinegar, as these can etch and damage the stone’s surface.
  • Pressure Washing: A pressure washer can be a great tool for a deep clean, but it must be used with caution. Use a low-pressure setting (under 1,500 PSI) and a fan-tip nozzle. Keep the nozzle at least 12-18 inches away from the surface to avoid damaging the stone or eroding the jointing sand.

Stain Removal

The key to stain removal is to act quickly. Different types of stains require different approaches:

  • Organic Stains (e.g., from leaves, berries, or food): For these, a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water is often effective. For a more stubborn stain, you can create a poultice by mixing powdered chalk or baking soda with hydrogen peroxide to form a thick paste. Apply it to the stain, cover with plastic, and let it sit for several hours to draw the stain out of the porous stone.
  • Oil and Grease Stains: For fresh spills, immediately blot the area with a paper towel or absorb the spill with a material like cat litter or sawdust. For set-in stains, a poultice made with a degreasing agent (like mineral spirits or acetone) and an absorbent powder can be applied.
  • Rust Stains: Rust, often caused by metal furniture or fertilizers, is one of the most difficult stains to remove. You will likely need a commercial rust remover specifically designed for natural stone. Always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Sealing and Prevention

While durable, natural stone is porous and can benefit from a protective sealant. Sealing your pavers offers several advantages:

  • Stain Protection: A sealant creates a barrier that helps prevent spills from penetrating the stone, giving you more time to clean them up.
  • Weather Resistance: It protects against damage from harsh weather, including freeze-thaw cycles.
  • Color Enhancement: Some sealants can enrich the natural color of the stone, giving it a vibrant, “wet look” while others provide a “natural” or matte finish.

The frequency of sealing depends on the stone type and the amount of traffic, but a general guideline is every 2-5 years. Talk to the experts atMiller Brick for all the options that you can benefit from.