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Noticed something off on your bluestone pavers? Are the colors fading or are they showing off a rusty-colored look? Don't worry! We have researched everything you need to know about bluestone pavers!
There are several factors that affect the colors of bluestone. These stones have the possibility to change color if they are not properly sealed. Discoloration happens because of too much moisture and water absorption.
It is not unlikely for natural stones to change color over time. This just means that your bluestone is in need of maintenance. In this article, we will find out more about bluestone pavers' types, maintenance, and color variations.
Why does Bluestone change color?
Have you ever encountered your bluestone pavers having a rusty orange look? Or perhaps these pavers start to darken? Do not worry! This is a natural occurrence for this type of stone.
One quality of bluestone is being water-resistant. These stones absorb moisture, and too much moisture causes discoloration. That is why it is recommended to apply a sealant days after installing it.
Some rocks, including bluestones, contain ferrous oxide minerals. Because of this, when bluestone is subjected to too much moisture, the pavers tend to develop a rusty orange color.
If these stones are not sealed, the moisture can enter from under the pavers or just above the surface.
With time, your bluestone pavers may change color. This usually happens because the paving stones have been worn out or seasoned.
In other situations, bluestone pavers darken. But don't fret too much! This is because of mold and mildew forming on your bluestones. All you have to do is to clean your pavers. Keep them clean and maintained, and they will look good as new.
How do you fix discolored bluestone?
As a homeowner, you want your living area to have the best look possible. This includes your patio, driveways, walkways, and backyard.
One aspect that adds beauty and style to your home is your pavers. Now, what would you do if your paving stones start to discolor?
To clean a discolored bluestone, all you have to do is gently brush it with a mixture of dish soap and water. If the stains are harder to remove, you may want to use a stronger cleaning substance. To avoid any of this from happening again, remember to clean your bluestone pavers regularly.
How do you remove rust from bluestone?
Removing rust stains from bluestone pavers can be quite tricky if you use the wrong materials or substances. Before you begin cleaning your paving stones, remember to use a non-toxic poultice to remove the stains off the pores and the surface.
You will need the following materials to clean rust from your bluestones:
- Scrub Brush
- Dish Soap
- Rust Remover
- Spray Bottle
- Absorbent Powder
- Plastic Wrap
- Packaging Tape
Step 1
The first thing you have to do is to clean the stained areas with dish soap and hot water. Carefully scrub the surface. Once you have done this, rinse the area with water.
Step 2
The next step is to make your poultice. You will need a powdery material to make your own. It is preferable to use kaolin clay powder, whiting chalk, diatomaceous earth, talc, or molding plaster.
If you want to use diatomaceous earth, you must be careful. It is harmful when inhaled and can cause skin irritation.
There are a number of ways to make your own poultice for stones. You can also purchase a premade poultice online.
Step 3
Add the dry material and the other ingredients for your poultice together in a mixing container. Once you have done this, combine and mix the organic, acid-free rust remover gradually with the dry material. Stir until you reached a paste-like substance.
Step 4
Now, you will have to dampen the surface of the pavers, or the stained areas using a spray bottle. Apply the poultice while the pavers are still wet. Spread semi-thick poultice onto the stained surface.
Step 5
Cover the poulticed areas with plastic wraps, then seal the sides using a packaging tape. Leave the pavers overnight or until the poultice dries off. By doing this, you have let the poultice leached the rust stains off your pavers.
Step 6
Lastly, remove the plastic wraps, and rinse the area off with water. If any evidence of rust stains still remain, you can reapply poultice until the rusty color is removed.
Other cleaning methods for bluestone pavers
Maintaining bluestone pavers are what every homeowner should do. There are several other ways to clean and maintain your bluestone patio.
1. Pressure Washing
One of the safest and most effective cleaning method that removes dirt and residue is pressure washing. The use of this equipment eliminates the need for manual scrubbing and brushing.
If you want to a use pressure washer, keep in mind that bluestones can be quite delicate so it is not advisable to power wash on the highest level.
Before you begin, you would have to clean the paver joints by uprooting weeds and removing moss. You should also remove dirt, leaves, and debris.
After doing this, you can start by moistening the pavers with water, and if applicable, you can apply a cleaning solution. Afterward, clean the area using a pressure washer.
Pressure wash small areas gradually so you can track your progress. You can repeat washing until the entire surface is neat. Don't forget to choose the nozzle that is best for the area you are cleaning.
Add Sand to Paver Joints
After pressure washing, you must re-apply sand in between the bluestone pavers because the pressure washer will rinse it off away.
Polymeric sand is the best option to use. When this sand hardens after wetting, it stays in between your pavers for a long time. This keeps weeds and other plants from growing in your paver joints.
2. Regular Cleaning
To keep your bluestone pavers pristine and elegant, regular cleaning is a must. Using a dry cloth, wipe your pavers in order to remove dirt and other debris. You must do this everyday to avoid dirt building up your bluestone pavers.
Another thing you must do is to remove spills immediately after it happens. By doing this, you can prevent the stone from absorbing moisture.
Clean using dishwashing liquid and warm water
Fill a bucket with about 4 liters of warm water, then add 4 drops of mild dishwashing liquid. Dip a cloth into the mixture, then gently wipe it to your bluestone pavers.
Once done, use a dry cloth to wipe the surface so that the stone would not absorb the moisture. You can do this once a week to ensure your pavers are well taken care of.
Types and Color Options
1. European Bluestone Pavers
As the name suggests, this type of bluestone came from Europe. European Bluestone Pavers have grayish light tones which are highlighted with lightening textures and catspaws on the surface.
European bluestones are gaining popularity because of its natural grayish look and its classic timeless aura. An incredible feature of this kind of bluestone is the consistency it has in surface colors amongst its kinds.
Aside from aesthetics, this stone has the highest non-slippery rating which is why it is best installed around pools.
2. Natural Cleft Bluestone
Natural Cleft Bluestones are naturally split that is why the surfaces would have some bumps. This is also the reason why these stones vary in thickness.
The quarrying process for natural cleft bluestone has some minimal saw cutting making it less expensive than the other kinds of bluestone. This stone comes in a range of colors, from blue to gray, purple, and rusty orange.
3. Thermal Bluestone
Thermal bluestone have a more muted saturation of blue, gray, green and brown. This stone is best used in driveways because of its durability. It is quarried deep within the earth making it strong enough to handle pressure.
“Thermaling” is a process thermal bluestones undergo. Once this stone is quarried, they are sawn cut. The saw leaves an unnatural smooth surface that is why the stone needs to be re-textured.
This is where “thermaling” comes into play. The stone is rapidly torched until it is flaked to expose its natural roughness.
Thermal bluestones are expensive than most bluestones because the quarrying procedure requires a lot of materials and a diamond-impregnated blade.
In Closing
Bluestone pavers are an excellent choice for patios, driveways, and walkways. The several kinds of bluestone pavers have their own advantages and aesthetic effects. To keep the elegant and timeless beauty of these stones, remember to keep them clean. It just requires simple maintenance.
If you found this article helpful, be sure to learn more about keeping your pavers pristine in our articles: