Natural stone tiles bring timeless beauty, texture, and elegance to outdoor areas – whether they’re used in patios, pool surrounds, garden paths, or courtyards. But like all quality materials, they need a little care to maintain their appearance and performance over time. While natural stone is known for its durability and weather resistance, it’s also porous and exposed to the elements – which means a thoughtful maintenance routine goes a long way in preserving its charm. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, effective ways to care for your outdoor stone surfaces and keep them looking their best, year-round.
Why Maintenance Matters
Natural stone is formed by the earth, making it incredibly strong – but also unique in its structure. Depending on the type (travertine, limestone, bluestone, etc.), it may absorb water, attract organic growth, or stain if left untreated. Regular cleaning and sealing:
- Prolong the life of your stone
- Prevent discolouration, algae, and grime build-up
- Preserve the natural colour and texture of the surface
- Help your space look polished and inviting in every season
Routine Cleaning Tips
For day-to-day or weekly cleaning, you don’t need to overthink it. Simple habits go a long way:
- Sweep regularly to remove debris, dirt, and leaves that can cause surface staining
- Rinse with a hose or low-pressure water to wash off dust and grime
- Use a soft broom or mop with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for stone
Avoid:
- Acidic or bleach-based cleaners – they can etch and damage the stone surface
- High-pressure washers – they may erode softer stones or weaken grout/seals
Sealing Natural Stone
Sealing is one of the most important steps in protecting your outdoor stone tiles. A good quality sealer will:
- Repel water, oil, and stains
- Reduce moss and mildew growth
- Enhance the colour of the stone (depending on the type used)
How often should you seal?
- Travertine & limestone: every 1-2 years
- Bluestone & granite: every 2-3 years
- High-traffic or pool areas: may require more frequent reapplication
There are two main types of sealers:
- Penetrating (impregnating) sealers – Soak into the stone and protect from within while keeping the natural look
- Topical sealers – Sit on the surface, offering a glossy or wet-look finish
Always test a small area before applying, and follow manufacturer instructions or consult with your stone supplier.
Removing Stains, Moss & Algae
Even with good maintenance, outdoor environments can sometimes lead to stains or biological growth, especially in shaded or damp areas. To clean stains:
- Use a stone-safe stain remover designed for organic, oil-based, or rust stains
- Scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly
For algae, mould, or moss:
- Use a biodegradable, anti-fungal cleaner approved for natural stone
- Avoid bleach – it may discolour the stone or damage nearby plants
- Improve drainage or increase sunlight exposure if growth is recurring
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
Australia’s changing weather can affect outdoor stone differently depending on the season. Here’s how to stay ahead year-round:
Spring / Summer
- Remove organic build-up from autumn and winter
- Clean and reseal stone before heavy use (e.g., entertaining or pool season)
- Check for any water pooling or drainage issues
Autumn / Winter
- Sweep regularly to prevent leaf staining
- Rinse off mud and debris after storms
- Apply anti-slip treatments if required in damp or icy zones
Do’s and Don’ts of Natural Stone Care
Do:
- Clean regularly with gentle tools like soft brooms or cloths
- Use pH-neutral cleaners formulated for natural stone
- Reapply sealer according to the stone type and usage level
- Address spills and stains promptly to prevent long-term damage
Don’t:
- Use acidic or bleach-based cleaners, including vinegar or lemon
- Scrub with steel brushes or abrasive scourers
- Apply sealers without spot-testing on a small area first
- Allow standing water, wet leaves, or organic debris to sit for long periods
How Cinajus Can Help
At Cinajus, we don’t just supply high-quality natural stone tiles – we support our clients long after installation. Whether you need advice on the right cleaner, guidance on sealing products, or tips for bringing tired stone back to life, our team is here to help. We stock a wide range of premium stones suited for the Australian climate, including travertine, bluestone, limestone, and more – all of which come with recommendations on how to care for them properly.
Keep Your Outdoor Stone Looking Its Best
Caring for your natural stone doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few simple habits and the right products, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, hard-wearing surface that lasts for years to come. Need help choosing a sealer or want expert maintenance advice? Contact Cinajus or visit our showroom to speak with a specialist. We’re here to help your outdoor space stay naturally stunning – all year long.
