Article at a Glance: Sandstone Cleaning FAQs
When approaching the task to clean sandstone, the most important things to consider are:
🔹 Best Cleaning Products: Use non-acidic, stone-specific cleaners like Stone Degreaser for maintenance and Surface Mould Remover (SMR) for mould removal.
🔹 Avoid Harmful Substances: Never use vinegar, baking soda, hydrochloric acid, or bleach on sandstone, as they can cause permanent damage.
🔹 Pressure Washing Caution: Use low pressure only to avoid damaging the stone’s surface.
🔹 Why Sandstone Turns Black: Black stains result from mould, algae, lichen, and built-up soiling—treat with SMR and prevent with sealing.
🔹 Sealing for Protection: Surface Shield Pro Natural Look protects against stains and weather damage, while Consolidate & Seal is ideal for sandstone near saltwater pools.
🔹 Routine Maintenance Tips: Regularly remove debris, clean with stone-friendly products, and ensure proper drainage to extend the life and appearance of your sandstone.
📍 Shop sandstone cleaners & sealers: Available at Gosford Quarries’ showroom in Terrey Hills, NSW or online via Premium Coatings Australia (links in recommended products further below in article).
For full details, check out the complete How to Clean Sandstone Guide by Gosford Quarries!
Ready to enhance your next project? Consult with Gosford Quarries’ experts to learn how our innovative techniques can bring your designs to life at 02 8585 8282.
Preserving the Beauty of Sandstone: Your Essential Cleaning & Care Guide
Embrace the enduring beauty of Australian sandstone with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your investment is maintained to perfection.
At Gosford Quarries, we understand that sandstone isn’t just a choice – it’s a statement – a statement of timeless elegance and natural strength. But like any true asset, it deserves care that’s as bespoke and reliable as the stone itself.
Navigating sandstone care can be as nuanced as the stone is unique. That’s why our ‘How to Clean Sandstone FAQ‘ doesn’t just answer your questions; it offers a blueprint for preserving the integrity and enhancing the character of your sandstone features.
From the sun-kissed hues of your garden paths to the stately presence of your facades, our recommended non-acidic, stone-specific cleaners, such as Stone Degreaser and SMR (Surface Mould Remover) from Premium Coatings, ensure that the cleaning process is as gentle as it is effective.
Some products from Premium Coatings to clean sandstone are available also to buy from our Gosford Quarries showroom at Terrey Hills, Sydney Location.
Protecting Sandstone for Generations: Expert Care & Sealant Solutions
The Australian climate is famed for its harshness, yet within it, your sandstone can thrive with the proper care. Say goodbye to abrasive chemicals and hello to tailored solutions that respect your stone’s natural composition.
And for those seeking to ensure their sandstone remains as pristine as the day it was laid, our sealant recommendations, including Surface Shield Pro Natural Look and Consolidate and Seal (also available from Gosford Quarries and directly from Premium Coatings), offer a shield against the elements, creating a barrier that celebrates the stone’s natural allure while defending against time and wear.
Join us as we delve into the world of sandstone maintenance. Each question leads to a path of preservation, and every answer is crafted with the care your stone deserves.
How to Clean Sandstone FAQ
What can I use to clean sandstone paving?
Non-acidic, stone-specific cleaners are recommended
- for regular maintenance, use Stone Degreaser.
- for mould removal, use SMR (Surface Mould Remover)
What is the best product in Australia for cleaning sandstone?
- Stone Degreaser to clean and maintain
- Surface Mould Remover (SMR) to remove mould
How do you clean Australian sandstone?
- It is always best to use stone-specific cleaners.
- A diluted solution of SMR can be used along with a broom to scrub into the stone and rinse well with fresh water.
Can I use vinegar to clean sandstone?
Vinegar is a harsh and acidic solution that can leave the stone etched or burned if applied. It is never recommended to use any acidic solution on any natural stone.
If the stone is sealed, the vinegar can dissolve or break down the efficacy of the sealant.
Sealing sandstone protects the stone from staining and spotting, making cleaning much less time-consuming and laborious. We recommend using Surface Shield Pro Natural Look deep penetrating sealer on the facades and floors. We recommend Consolidate and Seal on Sandstone around saltwater pools and coastal properties.
Can you use baking soda on sandstone to clean it?
Vinegar and baking soda are the go-to solutions for household kitchens and bathrooms, but they should not be used on any natural stone due to its acidic pH level and caustic nature. It can cause unsightly spotting and discolouration.
Is baking soda safe for natural stone cleaning?
Baking soda is not recommended for cleaning. However, it can only draw out and absorb an oil stain. Mix water and baking soda to make a paste, leave it on the stone for a few hours, and rinse it with water only.
Can you pressure wash sandstone?
Yes, low pressure wash sandstone so as not to blast and break particles away.
Why does sandstone turn black?
Sandstone appears black over time due to soiling built up, mould, algae or lichen.
What is the best black spot remover for sandstone?
The black spots on sandstone are usually characterised by their definitive circular shape. This is called lichen (pronounced “ly-ken”). Lichen is the result of fungus and algae amalgamating. Lichen thrives in damp or moist conditions, much like mould.
To remove the lichen or mould from pavers and slabs, use SMR.
To reduce water absorption and for ease of Maintenance, seal using Surface Shield Pro Natural Look.
How do you get black stains out of sandstone?
Black staining is a result of built-up soiling over time. Sealing the stone is the best insurance policy for avoiding how badly soiled or deep the soiling can penetrate the stone.
Black staining on sandstone surfaces can be removed by using SMR.
How Do You Clean Australian Sandstone?
How do you clean a sandstone patio without a pressure washer?
Australian sandstone is an aesthetically beautiful stone and thus should be protected and maintained from the elements and harsh Australian climate. To ensure an easy clean every time, the best practice is to provide regular cleaning and removal of any surface debris to avoid staining and apply a sealant to the stone (recommended Surface Shield Pro Natural Look).
However, if the stone is not sealed:
- Remove debris from the area to be cleaned.
- Water can dilute a solution using SMR 5 parts to 1, depending on the level of soil build-up. Leave the solution on the floor for 10- 30 minutes. But do not allow the solution to dry! If it is drying, apply more water.
- With a soft bristle broom, gently scrub the surface.
- Rinse the floor well to ensure no solution build-up in any one spot. If left, this can damage and cause discolouration.
Can I use hydrochloric acid to clean sandstone?
Hydrochloric acid is very harsh on any natural stone and, if misused, may draw out any naturally occurring iron deposits to the surface, changing its aesthetics and damaging the stone. Hydrochloric acid is only recommended for professional use. It is not worth risking damaging the stone.
Does bleach damage sandstone?
If a bleach solution is used, be cautious when rinsing, especially around garden areas, as it will harm plants, trees and shrubs.
Does sandstone need to be sealed?
Due to its granular composition, sandstone is a highly porous stone. This means that once exposed to dirt, soiling, or stains, exposed or unsealed stone will absorb them over time, making cleaning and maintenance more involved. Consequently, exposing the stone to the elements over time can reduce its initial aesthetic appeal. We recommend using Surface Shield Pro Natural Look.
The need to care for sandstone paving in Australia
Like any other natural stone, sandstone needs maintenance. However, it stands the test of time because of its undeniable beauty and strength. It is also important to note even the strongest of metals, once exposed to the elements of Australia’s harsh climate, need care and ongoing maintenance to prolong their durability and aesthetics.
Does water soak through sandstone? Does water destroy sandstone?
Sandstone is porous due to its variations in granular composition. Hence, water seeps through the pores.
Proper water drainage surrounding the stone is critical. Also, applying a sealant to the stone is the best insurance policy to avoid any possible moisture damage and prolong the life of the stone.
Cleaning Sandstone in Australia
Gosford Quarries recommend Premium Coatings for all your sandstone sealer and cleaner needs.
We have cleaning and sealing stock from Premium Coatings in our Gosford Quarries showroom at the Terrey Hills NSW showroom.
You can also buy online from Premium Coatings or visit them at Moorebank, NSW.