Can Black Spots on Indian Sandstone Be Removed?
Indian sandstone patios are a stunning addition to any outdoor space, with natural beauty and durability that make them a top choice. However, with time, these beautiful stones often develop stubborn black spots, become green and slippery from algae, or suffer from wear and crumbling joints. In this blog post, we'll explore what causes these issues, why maintaining your patio is essential, and how professional cleaning can restore it to its former glory.
Why Are There Black Spots on My Indian Sandstone?
Those unsightly black spots on Indian sandstone are actually tiny organisms known as lichen. Lichen loves sandstone because of its porous surface, making it easy for these growths to take hold and flourish. Over time, rain, dirt, and natural debris can worsen the appearance of these spots, making your patio look dull and aged.
These spots don’t just appear overnight; they slowly take over, especially in areas shaded from direct sunlight. And unfortunately, they can be tough to remove on your own. Basic cleaning often doesn’t make a dent in these stubborn marks, which is why many homeowners reach out for professional help.
The Problem: A Slippery, Dull, and Worn Patio
Apart from black spots, Indian sandstone patios can quickly accumulate algae, dirt, and grime—especially if they're shaded or if debris is left to sit after rain. This buildup can lead to slippery surfaces that become hazardous, particularly in colder or damp months. Additionally, if you’ve noticed the pointing between slabs starting to erode or crumble, it could mean your patio is vulnerable to water damage and might need repointing.
The Solution: Professional Cleaning & Treatment
At Cotswold Exterior Surface Cleaning LTD, we tackle patio problems head-on with a specialised process designed to target all of these issues. Here’s how we bring your Indian sandstone patio back to life:
Treatment Application: First, we apply a treatment specifically designed to target black spots and algae. This solution penetrates the porous surface of the sandstone, breaking down the lichen and grime.
Dwell Time & Agitation: We let the treatment sit for an appropriate time, allowing it to work on those tough spots. We then agitate the surface, ensuring the solution reaches all affected areas and loosens the buildup.
Low-Pressure Washing: Using low-pressure, high-quality jet washing, we remove the loosened grime and reveal the true color of your patio beneath. This method ensures we don’t damage the sandstone surface, keeping it protected while making it shine.
Repointing Services: If necessary, we also offer a repointing service to restore any areas where the joints have worn away. This process strengthens the patio, prevents water damage, and extends its lifespan.
Post-Treatment for Long-Lasting Protection: We finish with a post-treatment that helps keep black spots, moss, and algae at bay, so your patio looks fresh for longer.
The Benefits of Regular Maintenance
Keeping your patio free of leaves and debris can prevent many issues. Sweeping it down after heavy rains or windy days will reduce the likelihood of dirt buildup and help prevent algae. Even with these efforts, regular professional cleaning every 12 months can prevent issues from building up over time.
Why Choose Us?
At Cotswold Exterior Surface Cleaning LTD, we bring expertise, attention to detail, and a passion for helping homeowners maintain beautiful outdoor spaces. We understand the frustration of a dull or slippery patio, and we’re here to provide long-lasting, satisfying results.
Ready to transform your patio? Contact us today to schedule your Indian sandstone clean, and let’s get your patio looking pristine and inviting once again. Click here to learn more and see how we can bring out the best in your patio!