A natural stone patio is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space. But like most outdoor features, natural stone requires some regular maintenance to keep it looking its best and to make sure your patio stays intact.

First, choose something to fill the cracks.

Whether you want a more natural look or prefer to go with something cleaner, choosing something to fill the gaps between your natural stone slabs is the first step in maintaining your patio. You have a few options for fill:

• Polymeric sand
• Stone dust
• Moss or creeping thyme

Many homeowners like the appearance of moss or creeping thyme between their pavers. But if you go this route, make sure to sour the topsoil and limit the pH level to prevent it from growing too much. Moss and creeping thyme can cover up to 100 square feet in a year.

Stone dust and polymeric sand are great options if you don’t want the natural look, but prefer a more formal look. Polymeric sand will harden, but still allow the stones to move naturally. However, these types of fillers require yearly sweeping and occasional re-applying.

Sweep and clean your patio every year.

In the spring, it’s important to sweep your natural stone patio to remove any loose sand, leaves, gravel or other debris that might fall between the cracks.

Then, assess your patio and determine if there are any stains that need particular attention, like around barbecues and fire pits. You can spray your patio with clean water from your garden hose, then use gentle, household detergent like dish soap to gently scrub away stains.

Want something with less maintenance? Try mega flagstones.

Mega flagstones are just how they sound: large flagstones, which need to be installed with a machine. While this is a more expensive option than smaller natural stone pavers, they will resist moving and require less maintenance.

To keep mega flagstones maintained and looking great, they’re often sealed with a breathable, water-based solution that will prevent the stone breaking down.
If you have questions about your own natural stone patio, or are looking to install one in your backyard this spring, contact Kerr & Kerr Landscaping in Cambridge!