Flagstone patios can stay beautiful for years through these easy steps.
Flagstone is a type of natural stone that adds exquisite beauty to any home. If you have a flagstone patio or are planning to install a new one, you can be sure to enjoy it for decades with proper maintenance. Taking care of flagstone is easier than you think. Below are some tips on how to maintain a flagstone patio to keep it looking great for years.
Sweep As Needed
One of the most basic ways to maintain a flagstone patio is to sweep it as necessary. After a spring storm on the east coast, you will likely find sticks strewn about it. In the fall, autumn leaves might form clumps on the flagstone. Autumn leaves especially can leave stains on the patio when wet, so it is best to sweep them off as soon as possible.
Clean with an Appropriate Chemical
Over time, dirt can engrain itself into the flagstone’s surface. If you are not careful, mold can also begin growing on its surface. Stains can also form on the flagstone. It does not hurt to clean the flagstone with an appropriate chemical from time to time, perhaps once a year at most. Muriatic acid is one type of chemical that is effective for flagstone. You can also use outdoor bleach, which does not harm the landscape whatsoever.
When cleaning your flagstone patio, there are several easy steps to follow:
- Hose the patio down with water generously.
- Combine your cleaning chemical with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the cleaning chemical to the patio by splashing it on or with a stiff-bristled broom.
- Use a broom or brush to scrub and evenly distribute the solution over the patio.
- Leave it to sit for five or more minutes.
- Hose off with water and brush or spray off excess water.
Seal the Flagstone & Grooves
Sealing is perhaps the most crucial element in caring for a flagstone patio. The sealant keeps this natural stone from water penetration, dirt penetration, and mold. If your flagstone isn’t waterproof, it isn’t sealed. All one needs is a paint roller with a patio that is 100% dry, a long handle, an appropriate flagstone sealant, and a sunny day.
Bring Your Landscaping Vision to Life with Michael Bryan Landscapes
When you work with Michael Bryan Landscapes, you are bringing your landscaping vision to life with a team of experts who are committed to the quality of their work on your home. Whether you want to design a landscape for your outdoor space, build a deck, or install a stone patio, our team of experts is ready to help you make it happen. Since 2009, we have served Maryland and Northern Virginia with a variety of landscaping, hardscaping, design, and installation services that not only keep your outdoor space looking great but working as efficiently as possible to meet the needs of your family throughout the year. If you are ready to get started with your landscaping project or service today, call us at 443-203-1951 or email us at sales@michaelbryanlandscapes.com. Be sure to check us out on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest for updates and weekly landscaping tips!