How to Preserve a Flagstone Patio
Flagstone patios are a unique, durable and attractive element of home landscaping. Even though these patios are stone, time and weather can take their toll if steps are not followed to preserve them. A few simple tasks can help you maintain your flagstone patio and avert wear, tear and costly repairs. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Siloxane sealer
- Hose sprayer attachment
- Dish soap
- Patching mortar
- Putty knife or trowel
- Chisel
- Sand
Instructions
-
-
1
Treat your flagstones with a siloxane concrete sealer. Do not use a urethane sealer because it will seal the pores of the rocks and prevent them from being able to breathe. This will cause the bricks to eventually become discolored. Siloxane only partially seals the stone, and helps prevent water, sun and oil damage. Apply sealer to a new or thoroughly cleaned patio and reapply sealer every two to three years.
-
2
Clean your patio periodically by spraying it down with a good high-pressure hose sprayer. Clean oil stains with dish soap and warm water. Keep your patio free of organic matter like leaves. If left to sit on the patio for long periods of time, organic matter can cause staining and discoloration. Use an organic stain remover to clean these stains.
-
-
3
Fix and repair problem areas as you see them happening. Fix loose stones by removing them and re-sanding the bed where the stones rest. For mortared patios, patch cracked or damaged mortar by chiseling out the mortar and applying new mortar with a putty knife or trowel.
-
4
Prevent large amounts of water from dumping on or pooling up on your patio. Constant water contact in one area will cause deterioration of the stone. Install gutters on the roof above the patio to divert rainwater falloff.
-
1
