Flagstone walkways and travertine pool decks are beautiful, but natural stone is not concrete. It can be softer, more porous, and sensitive to the wrong cleaners. Here is how to clean both.
The Short Answer
Sweep, apply a stone-safe cleaner, let it work, and rinse with low pressure. Use a cleaner made for algae where there is green or black growth. Avoid acidic cleaners on travertine and limestone-based stone, and avoid high pressure that can flake stone or wash out joints.
How to Clean a Flagstone Patio
1. Clear and sweep
Remove furniture and sweep out leaves and debris from the joints.
2. Treat growth
Flagstone in shade often grows algae and moss. Apply a solution made to kill it and let it dwell.
3. Rinse at low pressure
Some flagstone is layered and can flake under high pressure. Use a wide spray and keep the tip back.
4. Check the joints
Refill sand or repair mortar joints that have washed out or cracked.
How to Clean Travertine Pavers
1. Use a pH-neutral cleaner
Travertine is a form of limestone and reacts with acids. Skip vinegar and acidic products.
2. Scrub gently
Use a soft or medium nylon brush on stains.
3. Rinse with low pressure
A gentle rinse or a surface cleaner at low pressure gives an even result.
4. Consider sealing
A stone sealer can help travertine resist stains, especially around pools and grills.
Pool Decks
Algae on stone pool decks makes them slippery. Keep runoff out of the pool and rinse well. See patio and pool deck cleaning tips.
When to Call a Pro
Large patios and pool decks are faster with professional equipment and the right cleaning solutions. We offer patio and paver cleaning and stone cleaning across DFW. See also how to clean limestone.
Ready for a quote? Call 817-580-9881 or request a free estimate online. We serve Arlington, Fort Worth, Dallas, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and the rest of our DFW service areas.
FAQs
Can you pressure wash travertine?
At low pressure, yes. High pressure can damage the surface and wash out joints. Use a wide spray and a stone-safe cleaner.
What should you not use on travertine?
Avoid vinegar, lemon, and acidic cleaners. Travertine is a form of limestone and can etch.
How do you clean a flagstone patio?
Sweep, treat any algae or moss with a suitable cleaner, and rinse at low pressure. Then check and refill the joints.
Should travertine pavers be sealed?
Sealing can help travertine resist stains, especially around pools and outdoor kitchens. Clean and dry the stone before sealing.
