Cleaning & Maintenance FAQs

Welcome to our FAQs about Cleaning & Maintenance. We’ve gathered the questions you ask most on this topic and answered them all in one place, to make life easier for you.

Estate Greige Porcelain floor tiles - Nigel Belcher Stone Paving

Please get in touch with our friendly team of stone experts if there’s anything you can’t find – we’re here to help.

Contact us today on 01635 202700 or at info@nigelbelcherstone.co.uk for advice on cleaning and maintenance.

Tile Cleaning & Maintenance FAQs

  • Porcelain paving gives you a low maintenance solution with outstanding performance and minimal upkeep. Manufacturers fire refined clay at extremely high temperatures to create porcelain slabs, making them exceptionally durable, non-porous and resistant to stains, algae, moss and frost. You don’t need to seal them, just a quick sweep or rinse keeps them clean.

    Porcelain keeps its colour over time, even in direct sunlight, and also its slip-resistant surface makes it a safe, practical choice for outdoor areas.

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  • How often you need to reseal your patio depends on the type of stone, the type of sealer used and the conditions it’s exposed to. Topical sealers, which sit on the surface, usually need reapplying every few years. Foot traffic, weather and the patio material all play a part. However, strong sun, heavy rain and freeze-thaw cycles can wear down the sealer over time. Get in touch for more information.

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  • No, porcelain tiles do not require sealing. Porcelain has an extremely low porosity, meaning it naturally resists water, stains, and frost. Consequently, its low absorption rate makes it a durable and practical choice for both indoor and outdoor use.

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  • Not always, as they are naturally resistant to stains and fading, which makes sealing optional. However, apply a breathable sealer to help protect against moss, algae and general grime, especially in shaded or damp areas. Sealing also makes cleaning easier and can deepen the natural colour tones. So skip sealing if you prefer a completely natural, weathered look.

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  • Sandstone requires regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and longevity. Therefore, to keep the stone looking its best, it should be routinely cleaned with a soft broom and washing with mild, pH-neutral detergents to avoid damaging its porous surface. Sealing sandstone periodically helps protect it from moisture absorption, staining and weathering, especially in outdoor settings.

    It is also important to promptly remove organic debris like leaves and moss, as they can trap moisture and cause discolouration or erosion over time. Avoid using harsh chemicals or high-pressure washers, as they can weaken the stone’s structure. In short, with proper care, sandstone can retain its natural charm and strength for many years. Please get in touch for more information.

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  • We recommend sealing most limestone tiles after installation, to protect their natural beauty and extend their lifespan. A high quality breathable sealer helps guard against staining, moisture penetration and weathering, particularly in outdoor or high traffic areas.

    Regular maintenance is simple – sweep frequently to remove debris and clean occasionally with a pH neutral stone cleaner. Avoid using acidic or abrasive products, as these can damage the surface. In short, with proper care and periodic resealing, your limestone will retain its beauty for years to come. Please get in touch for more information.

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  • Maintaining porcelain paving is simple and hassle-free. Thanks to its non-porous surface, porcelain paving resists stains, moss and algae. Regularly sweeping your outdoor tiles removes dirt and debris, keeping the surface clean and tidy. Occasionally, washing with warm water and a mild detergent or a light pressure wash will restore the outdoor tiles’ original appearance.

    Unlike natural stone, porcelain tiles requires no sealing, saving both time and effort. Moreover, porcelain paving retains its colour and texture even under harsh weather conditions. For tougher marks, using a soft-bristled brush and diluted cleaner quickly restores the tiles without damage. Therefore, with minimal maintenance, your porcelain paving will continue to look stunning year after year. Please get in touch for more information.

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  • Clay paving is built to stand the test of time, but a little regular maintenance helps it look its best year after year. Use an alkaline cleaner such as Lithofin Algex, especially in shaded or damp areas where moss or algae can build up. Gently scrubbing or brushing the surface can help lift dirt before rinsing it away. A jet wash also works well, just remember to keep the nozzle at a 45° angle to avoid damaging the joints between the pavers.

    After cleaning, check the joints and top up with kiln-dried sand if necessary to maintain stability and appearance. Please get in touch for more information.

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  • Maintaining sandstone walling is easy and keeps it looking its best for years to come. Simply brush off dirt and debris with a stiff broom to prevent build-up. For occasional deeper cleaning, use a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft bristle brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they may damage the stone’s surface. Please get in touch for more information.

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  • Maintaining Millboard composite decking and cladding is simple and hassle-free. Use warm soapy water and a soft bristle brush to scrub the boards gently. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach or pressure washers, as they may damage the surface. Promptly clean spills to prevent staining, especially from oils or grease.

    Indeed, with routine care, Millboard composite decking and cladding retains its appearance and performance, offering a clean, attractive surface all year round. Please get in touch for more information.

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  • Yes, natural stone products require proper sealing and care. For exterior stone tiles, we recommend using a water-based sealer. Please note that while pressure washing can clean them, it may disrupt the sealer.

    After washing, let the tiles dry for a few days, ensuring the temperature stays above 5 degrees. Then, apply a fresh coat of water-based sealer to keep your tiles protected and looking their best. Please get in touch for more information.

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  • How often you need to reseal your patio depends on the type of stone, the type of sealer used and the conditions it’s exposed to. Topical sealers, which sit on the surface, usually need reapplying every few years. Foot traffic, weather and the patio material all play a part. However, strong sun, heavy rain and freeze-thaw cycles can wear down the sealer over time. Get in touch for more information.

    Contact Us
  • No, porcelain tiles do not require sealing. Moreover, porcelain has an extremely low porosity, meaning it naturally resists water, stains and frost. Consequently, its low absorption rate makes it a durable and practical choice for both indoor and outdoor use.

    Shop Porcelain Paving

Still have Questions?

If you haven’t found the answer you’re looking for in our FAQs, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team at Nigel Belcher Stone Paving. Indeed, we are always happy to help and ready to provide the guidance you need.

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