How to Care for Flagstone
Flagstone is a sedimentary rock, which simply means that it is composed of many different layers. Because it is a layered natural rock, the stone needs protection from the natural elements to prevent “pealing,” or any other deterioration of the surface-layers. Below are tips on how to care for your flagstone patio.
1. Flagstone needs to be sealed to protect the surface of the stone from staining. Sealing also enhances the natural beauty of the stone and the variations in the color. Sealers can range from natural matte look to a high gloss finish. Sealer fills the pores making it easier to clean and helps protect the stone from staining. Flagstone can fade naturally over time due to light efflorescence. The use of a sealer will help to prevent this process from being as noticeable. However, flagstone which remains exposed to the elements will age. You should not expect the flagstone to be a 100% protected from the effects of the elements but the sealing process does help to slow the process and keep it from being too noticeable.
2. Wipe up any spills immediately. Because flagstone is porous is will absorb liquids and stain.
3. Place a floor mat at all doors. This will help keep dirt off the flagstone.
4. Clean flagstone with a light acid rinse and scrub. Use a 5:1 water to acid solution which will actually remove the top layer of stone to expose the new layers underneath. This process should be done with caution as too much acid on the stone for too long a period of time will cause excessive wear and decomposition of the stone.
5. NEVER POWER WASH pavers or stone, and if you must attempt this method, use a FAN tip and keep the tip as far away from stone as possible. The closer you get the more potential damage you could cause to the stone including ETCHING the stone.
