December 31, 2013

Pool Decks and Exterior Natural Stone Floor Care

Pool Deck - Pool Tile - Cleaning and Sealing by EUROTECH Maui 808.877.0222

Pool decks and exterior flooring bear the brunt of sun, sand and salt exposure.  In Hawaii, our UV exposure is especially high.  Quartzite, travertine and sandstone are popular materials in common areas and require ongoing care to maintain their integrity and beauty.



One of the issues that we see with these types of materials is hard water deposits.  Unsightly reddish brown darkened areas tend to accumulate wherever water settles.  To address this properly, stone safe products and methods for cleaning are recommended to protect the flooring and remove the staining.  Typically pressure washing isn't enough for stain removal, however its a good interval maintenance procedure.  Proper use of pressure and products including a high quality sealer will help to prevent flaking and spalling of natural stone.

After the flooring has been deep cleaned, proper resealing is vital to increase the longevity and lifespan of exterior stone.  Topical coatings are generally not recommended due to slip considerations as well as increased maintenance costs.  Coatings although appropriate and necessary in some cases, will often require additional time and costs after the initial application.  Impregnators are the stone care professional and industry recommendation for natural stone flooring.  By penetrating the material and creating a resistance to water or oil, the stone will be less prone to deep staining.  Sealing protects natural stone by decreasing its porosity.   Deposits and discoloration will be held at the surface of the stone instead of letting them penetrate deeply into the stone.      

The benefits of regular sealing and proper stone care decreases the manhours and products required for daily and interval maintenance cleanings.  Proper care extends the life of natural stone and protects the investment that has already been made in high quality flooring. 
Proper care protects the investment that was made toward installing natural stone surfaces.  Using a qualified expert to assist with product choice and service practice will ensure the best wear and care of interior and exterior stone. 

 
For Care and Recommendations