Clean Natural Stone: An August Home Maintenance Guide

Summer can be tough on your home’s outdoor surfaces. After months of backyard barbecues, family gatherings, pool days, and everyday outdoor living, natural stone may be showing signs of the season.

Food, dirt, sand, grease, and oil can collect on outdoor granite countertops, stone patios, and walkways. If you leave that grime untreated, some stains can become increasingly difficult to remove.

That’s why August is a great time to give your natural stone a little attention before summer winds down.

Start by Removing Dirt and Debris

Before adding any cleaning product, remove loose dirt, dust, and sand from the surface.

This step matters because abrasive particles can scratch or damage some types of natural stone when you wipe them across the surface.

Depending on the area, gently sweep, dust, or wipe away loose debris first.

Choose the Right Cleaner for Natural Stone

Natural stone requires different care than many other household surfaces.

Avoid reaching for a harsh all-purpose cleaner. Instead, choose a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner that’s appropriate for your particular type of stone.

Additionally, soap-based products may leave streaks or film behind.

Use a Soft Cloth or Microfiber Towel

Once you’ve selected an appropriate cleaner, use a soft cloth or microfiber towel rather than an abrasive scrubber.

Follow the cleaner manufacturer’s instructions and rinse the surface as directed.

When in doubt, test a product in a small, inconspicuous area first.

Consider Sealing Your Natural Stone

Depending on the type of stone and its current condition, a penetrating sealer may provide additional protection from stains and grime.

However, not every stone or existing finish requires the same treatment. Check the stone and sealer manufacturer’s recommendations before applying a product.

If you’re unsure what type of stone you have or whether it needs sealing, consider consulting a stone-care professional.

Don’t Forget Your Outdoor Living Areas

Natural stone appears in many areas around a home.

During your August maintenance check, inspect:

• Outdoor granite countertops
• Stone patios
• Walkways
• Outdoor kitchen surfaces
• Stone steps
• Other natural-stone features

Pay particular attention to grilling and dining areas where grease, food, beverages, and other spills may have accumulated throughout summer.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Some stains won’t disappear with routine cleaning.

Deep-set oil, grease, discoloration, or heavy buildup may require specialized products and equipment. Improper treatment can potentially make the problem worse, so professional restoration may be worthwhile for significant staining.

The source for this maintenance tip estimates professional natural-stone restoration at approximately $400 to $1,200, depending on the amount of grime and work required.

Actual pricing varies by stone type, condition, square footage, location, and the services needed.

Final Thoughts

Your outdoor spaces probably worked hard this summer, too.

Giving natural-stone patios, walkways, and countertops a thorough but gentle cleaning in August can help remove summer grime before stains become more difficult to address.

Use products designed for your particular stone, avoid abrasive cleaning methods, and consider professional help when you’re dealing with significant staining or damage.

A little care now can help keep those beautiful stone surfaces looking their best for seasons to come.

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