How should I maintain my patio?
Living Stone paving is relatively maintenance-free. Occasional washing and scrubbing with a stiff broom will normally suffice. Mild cleaning products such as washing-up liquid can be used, but Living Stone do not recommend the use of acid-based cleaning products. Where such a product is used, care should be taken to follow manufacturer’s instructions.

Should I use a power-washer?
Power-washing should not normally be required. Living Stone recommend that power-washers only be used very occasionally and always on a low-pressure setting. Care should be taken to follow manufacturer’s instructions.

Can I use de-icing salts on my patio?
No. Living Stone do not recommend the use of de-icing salts, as the surface of the paving can be permanently damaged.

Can I use Living Stone paving indoors?
Yes. All Living Stone paving is suitable for indoor use. However, a proprietary sealant is strongly recommended to protect against dusting and staining of the surface. See further advice below.

Can I use sealants on my paving?
Yes, although sealants are not normally considered necessary with Living Stone paving used outdoors. Customers should be aware that sealants are likely to alter the colour and appearance of the treated area. The paving should always be completely dry and free of efflorescence before a sealant is applied. Ideally, slabs should have been laid for at least a week. Care should be taken to follow the sealant manufacturer’s instructions.

What is efflorescence?
In early life, concrete products may experience an apparent loss of colour and a bloom or stain (normally white) may appear on the surface. This is known as efflorescence. Since it is a naturally occurring phenomenon, it is not possible to be sure when, or if, efflorescence will appear. The effect generally disappears with the natural weathering process and the passage of time. It is in no way detrimental to the long-term durability of the product.

Why do some of my paving slabs have dark patches?
Dark patches can occur on individual slabs due to differential weathering. This is caused by the surface of the paving curing at different rates after manufacture and in its early life. Relatively minor changes in ambient temperature and humidity can cause its formation. Like efflorescence, the effect generally disappears with time. It is in no way detrimental to the long-term durability of the product.

Do I need to wash my aggregates?
Not normally. Aggregates are washed during the quarrying process. However, they will retain some dust and dirt. When used outdoors, aggregates will normally be fully cleaned by rainfall, or can be hosed down.

Can I use my aggregates for aquatic purposes?
Only aggregates that are indicated as fish-friendly should be used for aquatic purposes. All aggregates should always be thoroughly washed before being used in an aquatic environment. Those aggregates not indicated as fish-friendly, should never be used, as they are likely to alter the water alkalinity and may seriously harm aquatic life.

Can I use my aggregates for driveways?
Only aggregates indicated as suitable for driveways should be laid in areas where vehicles will be used, as these tend to be hard and non-porous. For further advice see “A DIY Guide to Laying Decorative Aggregates”.