An Indian sandstone paving feature is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space, providing a serene and inviting area for relaxation and entertainment. However, to ensure its long-lasting beauty, it’s crucial to ensure you’re looking after them with a proper maintenance routine. Here at Bridge Street Stone, we’ve been providing our customers with robust paving solutions since 1991. As a result, we’re experts when it comes to patio maintenance, so we’ve devised a list of tips to help you maintain a stunning stone patio for years to come.

Our top tips for patio maintenance

There are plenty of ways you can ensure that your paving slabs remain in tip-top condition. These are not essential tasks, but if you’re looking to comprehensively protect your patio against degradation, we’d advise keeping on top of each of these factors!

• Regular cleaning - cleaning your stone patio helps to prevent dirt, debris, and stains from accumulating. Sweep the surface with a broom or use a leaf blower to remove loose dirt and leaves. For a deeper clean, use a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft-bristle brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or high-pressure washers, as they can damage the stone. If you’re looking for a more in-depth guide to cleaning your stone patio, check out our blog on how to clean your Indian stone patio.
  
• Sealing - protect your stone patio by applying a high-quality sealer. Sealing helps to prevent stains, moisture penetration, and colour fading caused by sunlight. Before sealing, make sure the patio is clean and completely dry. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application and reapply the sealer as recommended to maintain its effectiveness.
  
• Weed control - you can prevent weeds from sprouting between the stones by applying a weed killer or using a weed barrier. Regularly inspect the patio for any signs of weed growth and remove them promptly. Weeds can cause damage to the stones and disrupt the overall appearance of your patio, so if you spot any weeds, it’s best to remove them promptly.
  
• Proper drainage - ensure that your stone patio has proper drainage to avoid water pooling and potential damage. You can do this by sloping the patio surface slightly away from your home when you install it to encourage water runoff. We’d also suggest clearing any debris from drainage channels and gutters to prevent water from flowing onto the patio during heavy rainfall.
  
• Protection from furniture - if you plan to place furniture on your stone patio, use protective pads on the feet of the furniture to prevent scratching or marking the surface. Try your best to avoid dragging heavy furniture across the stones, as this can cause permanent damage. As a last resort, consider using rugs or mats underneath furniture to provide an additional layer of protection. However, these will need to be stored away when the weather turns to avoid damaging them!
  
• Seasonal maintenance - when the winter comes around, protect your stone patio from freeze-thaw cycles by removing snow promptly and avoiding the use of deicing salts, as they can damage the stone. In the summer, be cautious of excessive sunlight exposure, which can fade the colour of certain stones. You can use shade structures or patio umbrellas to provide protection if you need!
  

Following these tips can help you to maintain a stunning stone patio for years to come. With proper care, your patio will continue to be an inviting space where you can enjoy the outdoors for many years ahead, and if you’re interested in adding some stunning paving stones to your outdoor space, you’re in the right place!

Here at Bridge Street Stone, we supply the UK’s very best sandstone paving. Our Indian sandstone is imported straight from operated quarries in India, so if you’re looking to give your patio the perfect upgrade this spring, feel free to give us a call today on 01282 860571 - we’re happy to help!