How to clean Deckstone Porcelain Pavers
Routine maintenance
Routine maintenance is necessary with specialized detergents to avoid stains and keep your Deckston Porcelain Pavers looking their best. However, these detergents must not leave a film, wax or membrane residue. When using specialized detergents be sure to rinse well with plenty of clean water as it is fundamental to the cleaning process.
Lighter colored pavers, especially white pavers are very delicate and may incur dirt more easily than darker tiles. It is important to remember these tiles may require a little more routine maintenance.
Avoid using sealers as they are unnecessary. Using a sealer will alter the D.C.O.F. (Dynamic Co-efficient of Friction). This will result in the surface becoming slippery. Furthermore, due to Porcelain Pavers having such a low absorption the sealer will most likely not work and flake over time.
Seasonal maintenance:
Depending on your climate, seasonal maintenance will vary. In the spring after the winter season and the snow has passed it is important to give your Deckstone Porcelain Pavers a thorough cleaning to check for any possible damage and to get them ready for the busy season.
In the summer it is more common to have increased foot traffic, be sure to check regularly for any damage and perform routine maintenance with warm water and mild detergent as needed.
In autumn as the leaves fall be diligent in keeping the pavers clean with routine sweeping, blowing and or vacuuming. Leaves, berries, and shrubs can leave stains behind if not regularly removed.
During the winter months, remove snow and ice to keep the surface if somebody should be walking on the pavers. Using de-icing salts are safe to use and will not damage porcelain pavers.
Removing dirt and debris:
Using an acid-free detergent and warm water with hose or power washer will remove most general dirt and debris. When using a power washer, use the power lance at a narrow angle as you move over the pavers.
For more stubborn dirt and debris a light bristle brush can assist in removing the problem area.
Be advised that some types of dirt for example sand can have an abrasive effect on the surface of Deckstone Porcelain Pavers that can be compounded with foot traffic. Making it imperative to remove these residues regularly by sweeping, blowing or vacuuming.
Removing different types of stains
Depending on the stain you will need to use a different type of solution. For stains caused from food or drinks you will want to use a solution like PS87. For stains like wall paint, chalk and rust you will want to use an acid solution like Deterdek.
Nature (leaves, dirt, soil)
Organic nature like leaves, dirt, soil etc. can easily be removed with warm water and a mild detergent.
Rust
Rust stains can be distinguished by a brownish-rust red color. Using a white vinegar or lemon juice should be enough to remove most rust stains. Pour lemon juice or vinegar directly onto the stain and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, with a soft bristle brush begin to scrub the stain. Further, remember to rinse and wash the surface well with clean water after scrubbing the rust stain.
Paint
If the paint is still wet, do not wipe it. Use a towel, rag, or other absorbent material to absorb the paint. Then apply a solvent to the area. After, wash the area with a degreasing agent once the paint is removed.
For dried paint, gently scrape off and finish with a paint remover.
Gum
Gently scrape the gum with a mechanical scraper avoiding scratching the Deckstone Porcelain Pavers. Gum that has hardened can be removed with hot water to loosen.
For more information on how to remove different types of stains download our PDF on Deckstone Porcelain Cleaning Agents.
To view the wide range of colors, styles and textures of Deckstone Porcelain Pavers please visit https://coverdeck.com/deckstone-porcelain-pavers/