Patio Care Guide

A little maintenance goes a long way. Here’s what your patio needs as the seasons change.

Spring is the natural moment to give your patio some attention. After months of winter weather, moss, algae and general grime can build up on even the best-laid paving. A few simple steps now will keep your outdoor space looking its best right through summer.

Before you start, it helps to know your material. Natural stone and porcelain have different needs, so we’ve covered both throughout this guide.

Natural Stone Vs Porcelain: Quick Guide

Start with a good clean

Sweep away loose debris first, then clean with a pH-neutral product such as Fila Cleaner Pro diluted in water. It’s safe for both stone and porcelain and won’t damage sealants or finishes.

Avoid acidic or abrasive household cleaners including vinegar and bleach. These can strip sealants and damage natural stone surfaces over time, even with occasional use.

Pressure washers can be used on porcelain with care. For natural stone, keep the pressure low and avoid directing the jet directly into the joints.

Dealing with Algae, Moss and Seasonal Build-Up

Patios in shaded or damp areas may experience algae or moss growth, particularly after winter. Keeping the area clear of leaves and organic debris and ensuring good drainage are the simplest ways to minimise this. Addressing affected areas before growth becomes established is always easier than treating it once it has taken hold.

For stubborn patches, Fila PS87 Pro works well on most paving surfaces. If you have marble or polished stone, check with our support team before using it as it may affect the finish. For everyday stains, pH-neutral cleaner with a stiff brush and a little dwell time will usually do the job.

Sealing Natural Stone

Sealing outdoor natural stone is a personal choice. It helps protect against water ingress and staining, but some prefer to let the stone weather naturally and develop a patina over time.

Two things are worth considering: the type of stone and the scale of the area. Lighter stones like off-white limestone are more prone to visible staining and generally benefit more from sealing, whereas darker, more rustic stones like sandstone or slate can often be left untreated. Sealing a large patio does come with a cost, so it’s worth weighing up the practical benefits first.

If you do choose to seal, we recommend one to two coats of Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme depending on the porosity of your stone. If your stone is already sealed, a simple water test will tell you if it needs a refresh. If water soaks in rather than beading on the surface, it’s time to reapply.

Porcelain doesn’t need sealing. Its low porosity makes it naturally resistant to water, staining and frost.

Summer Upkeep

A weekly sweep and an occasional mop with diluted Fila Cleaner Pro is enough for most patios through the summer months. Clean up spills promptly after outdoor dining and treat any weed growth in the joints before it establishes. If you use outdoor furniture on natural stone, felt pads on the feet will prevent scratching over time.

Well-maintained paving should last a lifetime. A little care at the start of the season means you can spend the rest of it enjoying the space.

For further advice on caring for your paving, our team is always here to help. Live chat with our experts, email [email protected], call +44 (0)1600 715444 or visit one of our showrooms. You can also explore expert guidance in our FAQ pages.

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