Having a living area constructed of beautiful, natural flagstone increases the amount of enjoyment you and your family will have in the outdoors. This rock is perfect for patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pit areas, and walkways throughout your yard. Once you invest in a beautiful flagstone patio or walkway, you’ll want to make sure it remains in top-notch condition with regular maintenance.
Here are a few tips for proper flagstone maintenance:
- Sealing. The intent of building outdoor living spaces and walkways is that they should be used and traveled upon. Life happens, and that means the stone can be subject to spills, stains, and other types of damage. Even in the best conditions, rain and snow can create water stains on unprotected material. Sealers fill in the natural pores of the stone and create a thin coating to prevent liquids from penetrating the rock.
It’s important to choose your sealing material carefully—ask the experts at Hilton Landscape Supply for recommendations. Unfortunately, some sealers can leave a glossy finish that will change the appearance of the area and may not meet your desire to retain the natural beauty of the flagstone.
Cleaning. Periodically you will want to clean dirt, mold, and moss growth from your stone. These substances can stain the rock over time if not removed. Small areas can be cleaned using bleach or muriatic acid diluted in water, or you can purchase a cleaner designed specifically for this work from a home or landscaping supply store. Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear and rinse the flagstone well after cleaning to prevent staining or damage. If your area is large and your desire for outdoor maintenance is small, hiring a professional cleaning crew may be a better fit. Make sure anyone cleaning your flagstone has the right experience and is using the correct product for the work.
Cleaning. Periodically you will want to clean dirt, mold, and moss growth from your stone. These substances can stain the rock over time if not removed. Small areas can be cleaned using bleach or muriatic acid diluted in water, or you can purchase a cleaner designed specifically for this work from a home or landscaping supply store. Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear and rinse the flagstone well after cleaning to prevent staining or damage. If your area is large and your desire for outdoor maintenance is small, hiring a professional cleaning crew may be a better fit. Make sure anyone cleaning your flagstone has the right experience and is using the correct product for the work.After a thorough cleaning, you should re-seal the area since cleaning will also remove the protective layer you previously applied.
- Repairing damage. Because flagstone is a natural material, it is subject to cracks, breakages, scratches, and other damage from both wear and tear as well as exposure to the elements. If the stones are set in mortar, the grout can become cracked or loosened over time, too. Make it a routine to inspect your flagstone in the spring and fall as your install and store your outdoor furniture. It is relatively simple to replace flagstones as needed or re-grout patches that have become worn. Bring pictures of the area, measurements, and if possible, the damaged stones to Hilton Landscape Supply and we can help you select replacement pieces for your living space.
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Come visit the professionals at Hilton Landscape Supply. We have all the materials your need from hardscape to topsoil and mulch. Our team can help you design the ultimate outdoor living space and provide you with all the supplies to make it a reality. Stop by and see how easy it is to get started!