Granite

Granite is a popular choice for patios, pathways, and driveways due to its natural beauty, strength, and durability. However, while granite is tough, it still needs proper care to maintain its appearance and longevity. Using the wrong cleaning products can cause lasting damage, so understanding how to clean and protect your stone correctly is essential.

Understanding Granite – What Makes It Unique?

Granite is a natural igneous rock formed over millions of years from cooled magma beneath the Earth’s surface. It is composed of:

Quartz – Provides hardness and resistance to wear.
Feldspar – Contributes to the stone’s colour and durability.
Mica – Adds the signature sparkle and texture.

Because granite is dense but slightly porous, it can absorb moisture and stains over time if not properly maintained. It is also susceptible to damage from the wrong chemicals, which can affect its surface, weaken its structure, and lead to dullness or discolouration.

Why the Wrong Cleaners Can Harm Granite

Many common household cleaners contain acids, bleach, or harsh chemicals that react negatively with the minerals in granite. These products can cause:

Etching – The surface becomes rough or dull due to acidic reactions breaking down the stone.
Discolouration – Harsh chemicals strip away the natural colours and patterns.
Structural Damage – Over time, repeated exposure to strong chemicals weakens the stone, making it more susceptible to cracks and stains.

This is why we never recommend using vinegar, lemon juice, ammonia-based cleaners, or general-purpose patio cleaners on granite. These may seem effective at first, but they will cause long-term damage.

Recommended Cleaning and Protection for Granite

To maintain the appearance and durability of your granite surfaces, it’s important to use pH-balanced, non-acidic cleaners specifically designed for natural stone. The right cleaning solution will:

✔ Effectively remove dirt and stains without breaking down the stone’s surface.
✔ Be safe for repeated use without causing wear or damage.
✔ Work with the stone’s natural properties rather than against them.

Alongside regular cleaning, sealing external granite is an excellent addition for preventing moisture absorption, stains, and weather damage. A high-quality sealer will:

✔ Repel water, oil, and dirt, making future cleaning easier.
✔ Resist moss, algae, and lichen growth.
✔ Preserve the stone’s natural finish and prevent fading.

Sealing should be done every 12 to 18 months, depending on foot traffic and exposure to the elements. Applying a sealer creates a barrier that enhances durability and makes ongoing maintenance much simpler.

Why Choosing the Right Products Matters

We only recommend products that are specifically designed for granite because they:

✅ Protect rather than damage – No acids, no harsh chemicals, no risk.
✅ Extend the lifespan of your granite – Reducing the risk of erosion and wear.
✅ Keep surfaces looking clean and fresh – Without stripping away the stone’s natural beauty.

Many standard patio cleaners or household disinfectants can do more harm than good. That’s why we always stress the importance of using the right products—to clean effectively without compromising the stone itself.

Your granite patio or pathway is an investment, and with the right care, it will continue to look beautiful and remain durable for years to come. By using the correct cleaning methods and sealing regularly, you’ll keep your granite protected from stains, weather damage, and dullness.

Taking the time to use safe, specialised products is the best way to ensure your outdoor granite remains in top condition—without the risk of accidental damage from the wrong chemicals.