How to Clean Flagstone, Limestone and Travertine Patios
Natural stone, including Tennessee crab orchard flagstone, limestone and imported travertine, adds character to patios and walkways. It also reacts badly to the harsh cleaners that work on concrete.
Acids etch stone
Limestone, travertine and marble are calcium-based. Acidic cleaners, including many rust and efflorescence removers, dissolve the surface and leave dull, rough spots. Use only cleaners labeled safe for natural stone.
Gentle pressure
Softer stones and the joints between flagstones can erode under high pressure. Low pressure with a stone-safe cleaner handles algae and dirt.
Sealing stone
A penetrating (impregnating) sealer protects stone from stains without changing its look much. Some homeowners choose an enhancing sealer to deepen color.
What you can try yourself
- Sweep and rinse.
- Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner.
- Scrub with a soft brush and rinse.
What to avoid
- Vinegar, muriatic acid and acidic rust removers on limestone or travertine.
- Bleach on colored stone without testing.
When to call a professional
We clean and seal natural stone with products chosen for the specific stone, which protects it without etching. See our paver sealing service.
What customers say
"I used First Class Pressure Cleaning to seal my aggregate driveway and they did a fantastic job. It was in rough shape as we had never sealed it before. Lots of salt damage as well from trying to de-ice the last winter storm. It looks so much better now. They even came back the next day for touch-ups on some areas where the winter salts had worn through to the concrete. Very happy with this company and the work they’ve done!"
Dan · Google Review
"Great job done by Wally & crew for 1st Class Power wash. Front & Back porches along with large patio and lots of stairs. Furniture and planters moved and replaced. Sealant added to protect patio. Will use again!"
Judy B. · Google Review
"Highly recommend! Andrew and his team were great at communicating and worked around rainy weather days to clean and seal our stamped concrete around the pool to ensure the product would successfully seal it. They were on time, friendly, and their communication throughout the process was amazing!"
Andrea H. · Google Review
96 Google reviews from homeowners and businesses across Middle Tennessee. Read them all on Google.
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Related guides
- How to Clean and Seal Concrete Pavers
- How to Clean and Seal a Travertine Pool Deck
- How to Clean a Flagstone Patio
- What Is the White Haze on My Pavers and Brick?
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