If you’ve recently installed our high-quality granite setts, kerbs, tiles, or decking, you’re already one step ahead in creating a beautiful, durable outdoor space. As experts in the field, we know that maintaining granite outdoors requires attention to seasonal changes, from winter’s frost to summer’s heat.
In this guide, we’ll share essential tips for cleaning and maintaining outdoor granite surfaces for different seasons, ensuring they look stunning and last for many years.
Need advice or ready for your next project? Granite Setts UK is proud to offer premium granite products sourced from our trusted Portuguese quarry, designed to withstand the test of time. Contact Granite Setts UK today on 0800 246 1212 or at sales@granitesettsuk.co.uk!
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How Does The Weather Of Kent Affect Outdoor Granite Surfaces?
Kent’s climate is classified as a marine west coast climate, characterised by mild winters, cool summers, and moderate yearly rainfall. The average temperature in winter hovers around 44°F (6.7°C), while summer temperatures typically reach 65°F (18.3°C). Rainfall is moderate, with about 1.18 inches (30mm) of monthly precipitation, and relative humidity averages around 81.87%.
This combination of weather elements can affect outdoor granite surfaces in several ways. Here’s a breakdown of how weather impacts granite surfaces:
- Temperature fluctuations: Although granite is durable, the variation between summer heat and winter cold can cause minor cracks due to freeze-thaw cycles, especially if moisture gets trapped.
- Moisture and humidity: Kent’s frequent rain and high humidity can cause granite to absorb moisture, fostering moss, algae, or lichen growth, leading to stains and slipping hazards.
- Erosion: Prolonged water exposure from rainfall can cause erosion, especially if granite isn’t sealed, leading to discolouration and surface damage.
- Salt and mineral deposits: In winter, de-icing salts can leave behind mineral deposits that discolour or degrade granite surfaces.
- Organic growth: The damp conditions encourage moss, algae, or plants to grow between granite joints, affecting the stone’s appearance and integrity.
Therefore, regularly cleaning and maintaining your outdoor granite surface are crucial for mitigating these weather-related effects and protecting your granite sealing.
Seasonal Granite Outdoor Maintenance Tips
Now that you know how Kent’s weather affects granite surfaces, here are some detailed tips for seasonal granite outdoor maintenance, focusing on summer, winter, autumn, and spring and dealing with rain.
1. Summer Maintenance Tips For Granite Surfaces
1. Seal the granite: The summer heat can dry out the granite, causing the sealant to weaken. Apply a granite sealant to protect the stone from absorbing water and stains, which can be more prominent in the warmer weather.
2. Power washing granite: The dry summer months can also lead to dust and dirt accumulation. A power wash is an effective way to clean outdoor granite surfaces, removing dirt and grime that can degrade the appearance of your stone. Be sure to use a gentle pressure setting on the stone to avoid damage.
3. Avoid harsh chemicals: Summer can be when people use more potent cleaning agents, but avoid using acidic cleaners, such as vinegar or bleach, on granite surfaces as they can cause discolouration and damage.
2. Winter Maintenance Tips For Granite Surfaces
1. Granite protection: During winter, it’s crucial to ensure your granite is properly sealed to protect against water absorption. Freezing water can cause granite cracks or minor surface damage, so re-seal your granite surfaces before the first frost.
2. Snow and ice removal: Use a plastic shovel to remove snow from your granite surfaces, as metal shovels can scratch or damage the stone. If you need to use de-icing products, choose a non-abrasive option to avoid chemical damage to the surface. Avoid using rock salt, as it can lead to staining and erosion over time.
3. Regular cleaning: Snow and ice can carry dirt and debris onto granite surfaces. Clean your granite regularly with a mild detergent and soft cloth to remove any dirt or salt residue that could harm the stone.
3. Autumn Maintenance Tips For Granite Surfaces
1. Leaf and debris removal: Fallen leaves and organic matter can stain granite if left too long—regularly clear debris from your granite surfaces to avoid staining and moss or algae growth.
2. Check seals: After summer’s heat, it’s essential to check the condition of the sealant on your granite surfaces. If the seal has worn off, it is a good time to reapply it, protecting the granite from winter rain and moisture.
3. Prevent moss growth: The damp autumn weather can promote the growth of moss, which may be slippery and difficult to remove. Regularly check for moss growth and clean it off as soon as possible to avoid embedding it into the surface.
4. Spring Maintenance Tips For Granite Surfaces
1. Spring cleaning: After a winter of accumulated debris and moisture, it’s time to do a deep clean. Wash the granite with a mild stone cleaner and ensure that all dirt, grime, and moss are removed. You may want to use a power washer to clear away any remaining debris, but ensure it’s set to a low pressure to avoid damage.
2. Inspect for damage: After winter, check for any visible damage such as cracks or chips that might have occurred due to freeze-thaw cycles. Early detection of issues will help you address them before they worsen.
3. Reapply sealant: Spring’s heavy rain can lead to water absorption if the granite isn’t properly sealed. Apply a granite sealant to protect the stone and help it resist moisture. Sealants are essential for preventing staining and water damage from spring rains.
5. Rain And Moisture Impact On Granite Surfaces
1. Weatherproofing stone: The consistent rain in Kent can make granite more susceptible to water absorption, especially if it’s not sealed correctly. Ensure your granite is sealed with a high-quality stone sealant to keep water from penetrating and causing long-term damage.
2. Drainage maintenance: Ensure that your granite surfaces, particularly on driveways, patios, and pathways, have adequate drainage. Standing water can lead to erosion, staining, and potential moss growth.
3. Regular inspections: After heavy rainfall, check your granite surfaces for any signs of water damage. Look for signs of discolouration or moss/algae growth, which can be more pronounced in wet conditions.
Also Read: Granite Cobble Maintenance Tips
Common Mistakes To Avoid In Seasonal Granite Maintenance
- Neglecting resealing: Failing to reseal granite can lead to moisture absorption, stains, and surface damage.
- Using abrasive cleaners: Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acidic cleaners that can discolour and damage granite.
- Ignoring small cracks: Small cracks can worsen over time. Inspect and repair granite surfaces regularly.
- Leaving Debris: Dirt, leaves, and debris on granite can cause stains and moss growth. Clean surfaces promptly.
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Conclusion
By following these seasonal granite outdoor maintenance tips and neglecting the common mistakes to avoid in seasonal granite maintenance, you can preserve the beauty of your granite surfaces every season.
Granite Setts UK provides premium granite products designed to withstand the test of time, and we’re here to support you with expert advice and guidance every step of the way.
Contact us on 0800 246 1212 or email us at sales@granitesettsuk.co.uk for more information.
