How to Clean Limestone Pavers (Without Damaging Them)

Limestone pavers bring a clean, natural look to outdoor spaces — but because it’s a soft, porous stone, it needs the right care to stay looking its best. Using the wrong cleaner or pressure washer setting can cause permanent damage.

With 15+ years experience and the highest customer satisfaction rate, here’s how we recommend cleaning your limestone pavers in Perth.

Quick Summary

• Use pH-neutral cleaners only — avoid acidic or bleach-based products

• Sweep regularly to prevent grime and debris buildup

• Soft pressure wash occasionally (under 1,200 PSI)

• Re-seal every 2–3 years to protect against stains and moisture

• Never use vinegar, lemon, or harsh degreasers — they can erode the surface

Why Proper Limestone Care Matters

Limestone is calcium-based, which makes it highly sensitive to acid. Even common products like vinegar or citrus cleaners can dull or pit the surface. Proper maintenance not only protects your investment but also keeps the finish looking fresh year-round.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cleaning Limestone Pavers

1. Dry Sweep First

• Use a soft-bristle broom to remove loose dirt, leaves, sand, and debris.

• Regular sweeping stops grit from scratching the surface or working into pores.

2. Prepare a Safe Cleaning Solution

• Mix warm water with a pH-neutral cleaner (labelled safe for natural stone).

• Avoid anything acidic, abrasive, or oil-based.

3. Gently Scrub the Surface

• Apply the solution with a soft mop or sponge.

• For stubborn marks, use a soft brush — but don’t scrub too hard.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

• Use a low-pressure garden hose to rinse away residue.

• If using a pressure washer, keep PSI below 1,200 and use a wide fan nozzle.

5. Let It Dry Naturally

• Allow the surface to air dry completely before moving furniture or walking on it.

Dealing with Stains

• Oil stains: Dab with a poultice designed for limestone (avoid solvent-based cleaners)

• Leaf or tannin stains: Use a mild oxygenated cleaner, not bleach

• Rust stains: Use a specialist rust remover labelled safe for limestone

Always test a small area first.

Sealing Limestone Pavers

Sealing helps reduce water absorption and makes cleaning easier. We recommend:

• Re-sealing every 2–3 years

• Using a penetrating, breathable stone sealer

• Applying in dry, mild weather for best results

For best results, use high-quality sealers like the ones we apply on liquid limestone surfaces.

Maintenance Tips

• Sweep weekly to reduce dirt accumulation

• Hose down monthly in high-traffic areas

• Re-seal after deep cleans or visible wear

• Use mats under outdoor furniture to avoid scratching

FAQs

Can I use vinegar to clean limestone?
No — vinegar is acidic and will damage the stone’s surface.

Is pressure washing safe for limestone?
Yes, but only at low pressure (under 1,200 PSI) with a wide-angle nozzle.

What cleaner is best for limestone?
Always use a pH-neutral cleaner designed for natural stone.

How often should I clean limestone pavers?
Light sweeping weekly and washing every 1–2 months is ideal. Deep clean and reseal every 2–3 years.

Need a Hand With Yours?

Whether your pavers need a professional clean, reseal or full resurfacing, our liquid limestone experts in Perth can help restore and protect your surface the right way.

Contact us for an obligation-free quote on (08) 6244 4241