Have Limestone Tile pavings installed in your outdoor areas but don’t know how to clean them? Worrying about maintaining their beauty? Don’t worry! You have landed in the right spot. After all, we, at Stone Centre, have compiled a simple guide to help you keep your fabulous tiles outdoors looking their best.
Remember, cleaning them is important for maintaining their timeless charm and functionality. So, whether it is your patio, steppers, pathway or walkway, you can use these simple steps to make sure that your tiles remain in top shape, both aesthetically and functionality-wise.
So, let’s start!
Things You Must Know Before Starting the Limestone Cleaning Process
Before we check out the step-by-step guide to cleaning Limestone tiles outdoor, it’s crucial to know what this natural stone is like. To begin with, this stone is primarily made of calcium carbonate. It is famous for its chalky feel and aesthetics (don’t worry, we will suggest some of the best options later). Like every other natural stone, it is porous in nature, which means that there are small pores present on its surface. This means that the property of this stone makes it sensitive to stains and scratches. To add, it can also get damaged from substances that are acidic in nature.
Below are a few characteristics of this natural stone that you must remember before attempting to clean it:
1. Porosity: As we said before, this stone is a porous stone. This means that it can absorb moisture and water and can be stained.
2. Soft Texture: This natural stone has a beautiful soft texture. This means that any Limestone Tile should not be cleaned with sharp tools. Speaking of beauty, we promised to suggest to you some of the best Limestone Tile options. Didn’t we? So, have a quick look.
What are Some of the Best Limestone Tiles?
Listed below are some popular tile types you can try:
- Indiana White: In case you’re looking for perfect, muted off-white tones.
- Tandur Grey: For those who prefer a mix of aged-grey, crème and ivory.
- Navona: If you like a rustic, white look.
Now that you know about some of the great tile options in this stone, let’s have a look at what you would need to clean them:
Tools You’d Be Needing to Clean Your Tiles
Make sure to have these tools in place before you begin the cleaning process:
- A pair of gloves
- A soft-bristled brush
- Microfibre cloth
- A pH-neutral cleaning agent (don’t use alkaline or acidic cleaners)
- Warm water
- A bucket
- A soft sponge
- A clean & dry microfibre towel
4 Step Guide on How to Clean Limestone Tiles Outdoors
Simply follow the steps in a routine manner below to clean your outdoor tiles:
Step 1: Inspect the Tiles
Before you begin the cleaning process, make sure to inspect the tiles. Whether there are any stains (don’t worry, we will tell you how to get rid of them), if there are certain areas that need more attention or not, etc.
Step 2: Sweep the Tiles
We all know that seeing a dirty patio, pathway or walkway made of Limestone isn’t exactly pleasing, right? So, be sure to put on those gloves and sweep them regularly to clear away dirt and debris. For instance, oftentimes, organic matter such as dead leaves can accumulate on your tiles’ surface. Thus, you need to remove them. Also, routine cleaning makes sure that dirt and dust don’t get embedded in the stone due to its porous nature. To add, when cleaning, you might notice a haze-like substance covering the grout lines. This means that your grout lines need cleaning too. So, don't forget to use the brush to clean the grout lines too.
Step 3: Use the Damp Cloth
The next step for Limestone Cleaning is using a damp microfibre cloth to gently sweep your stone tiles. To achieve this, fill your bucket with warm water (not too hot) and put a small bit of a pH-neutral cleaning agent into the same. Now, take the cloth out and wring it properly to get rid of all that excess water and gently wipe the surface of your natural stones. No need to apply a lot of pressure. Take your time to clean every single tile that needs your attention.
Step 4: Make Sure to Dry Up Your Tiles
The last step of the cleaning process is the one that you must equally remember. After you are done cleaning your tiles with a damp cloth, ensure to dry them up by wiping them using a dry microfibre towel. You must remove the extra moisture and there shouldn’t be any standing water on the surface of your natural stone tiles.
How to Tackle the Stains on Your Limestone Tile?
Stains caused by a spill are pesky and can damage the beauty and charm of your tiles. Therefore, you must address them as soon as possible. In case of an immediate spill, it is always good practice to make sure to clean the same quickly. However, if you spot any stain later, make sure to determine its nature—whether they are caused by oil, wine, mold or anything else. To take care of the stains, put a small amount of pH-neutral cleaning agent via a damp sponge and gently work it into the affected area.
Then gently rub the area in a circular fashion. Remember, it’s important for your sponge to be soft. Don’t use too much force while rubbing the surface of your natural stone tile. Also, don’t use abrasive scrubbers to tackle the stains. The same can damage your tiles, after all. Once done taking care of the stains and finished, rinse the target area using water to get rid of any residue. Don’t forget to dry up your tiles quickly using a dry microfibre towel.
Additional Note: Re-Sealing Your Stone Tiles
Re-sealing your Limestone Tiles Outdoor is important. After all, the same protects them from stains, dust and moisture. However, we recommend dip-sealing during the installation itself. Periodic re-sealing ensures that your natural stone tiles remain in their best shape for times to come.
Final Thoughts
If you have installed Limestone Tiles Outdoor, then you need to clean them to increase their lifespan. First, know about the nature of this natural stone. The same will only help you. Speaking about the cleaning process, don’t worry, the steps are super easy. From inspecting the tiles to making sure that the tiles are all dried up when you are done with the cleaning process, you now know what to do. To add, don’t forget to re-seal your tiles, and you will be good to go.
FAQs
Q: What is the best cleaner for a Limestone tile?
The best cleaning agent for the same is a pH-neutral cleaning agent. Using the same does not damage the beauty and structural integrity of your natural stone tiles.
Q: How to clean Limestone tiles?
Use a soft-bristled brush along with a pH-neutral cleaning agent over your stain to clean it. Don't forget to be gentle when you scrub the surface.
Q: Is it too difficult to clean the tiles made of Limestone?
Not at all! If you follow the 4 steps, then your tiles will be clean and stay intact for a long time. However, if you feel that you are scared to do it on your own, then it’s absolutely okay to ask for professional help.
Q: What is the solution for cleaning Limestone tiles?
Use a pH-neutral cleaning agent to clean your stone tiles. After all, the best way is to use them since they do not damage your tiles.
