Natural stone paving adds timeless appeal and durability to outdoor patios. Whether it’s sandstone, limestone, granite, or slate, natural stone offers unmatched aesthetic and value. However, without proper maintenance, even the most resilient stone can become dull, stained, or weather-worn. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean natural stone paving without damaging it, using best practices and trusted solutions.
Why You Need To Clean Natural Stone the Right Way
Natural stone is porous and can absorb water, oils, moss, and dirt. Using the wrong cleaning methods or harsh chemicals can lead to:
Surface etching or discoloration
Accelerated erosion
Weakened joints and pointing
Long-term structural damage
That’s why it’s crucial to use products specifically designed for natural stone, like Joint-It So Clean and Joint-It Algae Remover, formulated to restore stone safely and effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Natural Stone Paving
1. Clear Debris
Begin by sweeping away leaves, mud, or loose moss. Use a soft-bristle broom or brush to avoid scratching the surface.
2. Use a High-Performance Stone Cleaner
For everyday dirt and grime, apply Joint-It So Clean – a biodegradable, pH-neutral cleaner that’s safe for all natural stone types.
How to use:
Dilute with water as directed on the label. (Or if using the 1L product, it is ready-to-use).
Apply with a low-pressure sprayer or watering can.
Allow product to do the work. Visible improvement after 24 hours.
In very dirty cases, apply and scrub with a soft brush, allow to sit for 30 minutes, powerwash off and then reapply a second time.
Tip: Clean natural stone in cooler parts of the day to avoid the cleaner drying too quickly.
3. Remove Algae, Moss, and Lichen
For stubborn green algae or black lichen, use Joint-It Algae Remover. It’s specially formulated to eliminate organic growth without damaging the stone.
How to use:
Apply directly to dry stone surfaces.
Allow to soak in – no need to rinse unless heavy residue remains.
Results continue to improve over the following days.
This product is ideal for shaded, damp areas where algae thrive.
What Not to Do When You Clean Natural Stone
Avoid these common mistakes:
No acid cleaners – especially on limestone or marble
Don’t power wash too close – high-pressure water can damage the surface or joints
No bleach or household detergents – they can stain or degrade the stone
Avoid metal brushes – they can scratch and scar the surface
Stick to purpose-built cleaners like those from Joint-It to clean natural stone safely and effectively.
Protect and Restore Your Stone After Cleaning
Once your paving is clean, consider applying a breathable stone sealer to protect against future staining and slow down the return of algae and dirt. Sealing also makes routine maintenance much easier.
Don’t Forget the Joints
Clean joints are just as important as clean paving. We recommend Joint-It Simple, a weather-resistant paving jointing compound that:
Prevents weed growth
Doesn’t wash out or crack
Provides a durable, professional finish
Clean Natural Stone the Right Way
To maintain the beauty and longevity of your natural stone paving, regular cleaning with the right products is essential. With Joint-It So Clean, Joint-It Algae Remover, and Joint-It Simple, you can clean natural stone surfaces safely, restore their appearance, and protect them for years to come. If you’re having issues with concrete and algae, read “How to Stop Your Patio Going Green”
