Pressure washing Indian sandstone paving

Can you use a power washer on Indian sandstone paving?

Our Indian sandstone paving is a popular choice for outdoor patios, walkways, and other landscaping features due to its unrivalled natural beauty and durability. However, over time, dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate on the surface, making it look dull and worn. So, one of the most common solutions for cleaning outdoor surfaces is to use a power washer, but can you safely use a power washer on Indian sandstone paving?

The short answer - yes, you can use a power washer on Indian sandstone paving, but you’ll need to be very careful when doing so. To illustrate this point, here at Bridge Street Stone here we’ve compiled a few things to keep in mind when power washing Indian sandstone paving, helping you to ensure that you don’t risk causing any damage to it.

Adjust the pressure of your washer

Indian sandstone paving is a natural stone, and as a result, it’s slightly more susceptible to damage from high-pressure washing. So, to avoid damaging the surface, we’d always recommend setting your power washer to a lower pressure setting (usually between 1,200 and 2,000 PSI). This will be enough to clean the surface effectively without causing any damage to the immaculate surface of the material.

Choose the right nozzle for the job

In the vast majority of cases, the nozzle on your power washer is what controls the pressure and spray pattern. For Indian sandstone paving, we’d say it’s best to use a nozzle with a wide spray pattern that covers a larger area, that way you avoid concentrating the pressure on one spot too much, as this is what can cause damage to the surface. As an added tip, if you’re not sure that the pressure setting is suitable, it’s a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the pressure is not too high and that the stone is not being damaged.

Use a cleaning solution if needed

Sometimes, a power washer alone may not be enough to remove all of the dirt and grime from the surface. If this is the case, you can always use a cleaning solution that’s specifically designed for Indian sandstone paving (you can purchase in garden centres usually). Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the solution in the recommended concentration, or you might discolour the surface of your paving slabs. After using a cleaning solution, be sure to rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining dirt, grime, or solution.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a clean and beautiful paving feature for years to come. If you’re yet to introduce your garden to the wonders of Indian sandstone paving, then feel free to browse our website for some inspiration!

Here at Bridge Street Stone, we supply the highest quality sandstone paving in the whole of the UK, and we stock shades in a variety of popular colours, including Kota BlackKandla GreyAutumn Brown and Golden Leaf. Our Indian sandstone is imported straight from ethically operated quarries in India, so if you’re looking to give your patio the perfect upgrade, feel free to give us a call today on 01282 860571 - we’re happy to help!