Outdoor travertine can add beautiful texture and style to patios, pool decks, walkways and more. However, as a natural stone, it does require proper cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best. With the right techniques and products, keeping outdoor travertine clean is easy.
What is Travertine?
Travertine is a form of limestone that is formed by mineral springs. It is a porous and pitted stone that comes in shades of tan, rust, grey and cream. Travertine has been used as a building material for thousands of years, including in famous landmarks like the Colosseum in Rome.
Some key facts about travertine:
- Formed by mineral springs depositing calcium carbonate
- Has a porous surface with small pits and holes
- Colors range from white to tan to rusty brown
- Popular for floors, walls, patios and pool decks
- Used extensively in Roman architecture
- Available finished and unfilled, or tumbled and filled
Travertine is softer and more porous than other natural stones like granite. This makes it easier to cut and shape, but also means it’s more prone to staining and etching. Proper sealing and maintenence is important for outdoor travertine installations.
Reasons to Clean Travertine Regularly
There are a few important reasons to keep outdoor travertine clean:
- Prevent permanent staining: Travertine is porous, which means spills and dirt can be absorbed if not cleaned promptly. This can lead to stubborn stains.
- Reduce slip hazards: Dust, dirt and debris left on travertine can create slippery conditions, especially around pools. Regular cleaning helps improve traction.
- Limit etching: Acidic substances like fruit juices, wine and cleaning chemicals can etch into the surface of the stone over time, creating a rough texture. Cleaning helps prevent buildup of acidic etchants.
- Enhance appearance: Naturally, keeping travertine free of dirt, stains, algae and debris will help maintain its beautiful look.
- Protect sealer: Outdoor travertine is typically sealed to prevent staining. Letting the sealer get too dirty reduces its effectiveness.
By cleaning travertine regularly and correctly, you can keep it looking fantastic for years.
Supplies Needed
Cleaning outdoor travertine doesn’t require any specialty tools. You’ll just need the following basic supplies:
- Broom or hose – For sweeping debris and rinsing away dirt
- pH-neutral cleaner – Special stone cleaners are recommended to avoid etching
- Mild detergent – For occasional deeper cleaning when needed
- Mop and bucket – Choose a microfiber mop to avoid excess water
- Scrub brush – For tougher stains and grout lines
- Spray bottle – For applying and rinsing cleaning solutions
- Absorbent towels – Microfiber cloths or chamois for drying
- Knee pads – Cushion your knees when scrubbing
Avoid using regular household cleaners, vinegar, ammonia or acidic products on travertine. Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous area first to check for any adverse reactions with the stone.
Cleaning Methods by Travertine Finish
Travertine comes in several different surface finishes, which affects the cleaning method:
Unfilled Travertine
- Has natural holes and pits – needs gentle cleaning
- Sweep debris from surface regularly
- Wash with pH-neutral stone cleaner diluted in water
- Use soft scrub brush on grout lines only
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with towels
Filled and Honed Travertine
- Has pits filled for smooth surface – can use more pressure when cleaning
- Mix pH-neutral cleaner with water in bucket
- Scrub entire surface with stiff scrub brush
- Mop up dirty solution
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly
Tumbled or Textured Travertine
- Has very rough, textured surface
- Needs gentler scrubbing to avoid damaging texture
- Sweep loose debris then use wet/dry vac on surface
- Mix pH-neutral cleaner in spray bottle and spray on
- Gently scrub with soft brush avoiding too much pressure
- Rinse thoroughly and blot dry
Always review the manufacturer’s care instructions for your specific travertine product before cleaning. Test cleaners in an inconspicuous spot before using over the whole area.
Routine Maintenance Cleaning Tips
For routine maintenance cleaning, follow these tips for safe, effective methods:
Sweep Weekly
Use a broom or outdoor vacuum to sweep up dirt, leaves, grass clippings and other debris weekly. This prevents abrasive particles from getting ground into the surface of the stone. Pay extra attention to sweeping corners and under furniture.
Spot Clean Spills ASAP
Quickly cleaning up spills when they happen prevents possible staining. Blot liquids up immediately with absorbent towels. For dried-on spots, spray pH-neutral stone cleaner and gently scrub with a soft brush.
Wash Monthly
Mix pH-balanced stone cleaner into a bucket of water according to label directions. Use a stiff-bristle scrub brush on grout lines and a soft brush on the travertine itself. This will remove any grime buildup and keep the stone fresh.
Pressure Wash Annually
For a deep clean, use a pressure washer once a year. Set the pressure between 500-1000 PSI and hold the nozzle at least 12 inches from the travertine. This will blast away any deeply ingrained dirt.
Re-apply Sealer
Travertine will need re-sealing every 1-3 years depending on usage and sealer type. This fills in any tiny holes opened by cleaning and prevents future stains. Timely sealing preserves the look of outdoor travertine.
Check Problem Areas
Pay extra attention when cleaning areas prone to extra dirt like under furniture and around pools. These high-traffic zones often need more frequent scrubbing.
By following these simple maintenance steps, outdoor travertine patios and walkways can always look their best.
Dealing With Common Problems
Even with proper preventative cleaning, outdoor travertine may still suffer occasional problems. Here are solutions for some issues that can arise:
Etch Marks: Light etching can often be removed by scrubbing with pH-neutral cleaner. For deeper etching, use a polishing compound specific for travertine.
Organic Stains: Stains from plants, leaves or food can be treated with oxygen bleach cleaners. Avoid harsh chlorine bleaches.
Rust Stains: Oxalic or phosphoric acid cleaners are effective for removing stubborn iron or rust marks.
Efflorescence: This white, chalky deposit is caused by mineral salts rising through the stone. Use an efflorescence remover and then seal to prevent recurrence.
Algae and Moss Growth: Apply an algaecide designed for natural stone to safely kill and remove organic growth without damaging the travertine.
Chewing Gum: Freeze gum with an ice cube or can of compressed air then gently pry off. Avoid steam or heat which can leave residue.
For severe staining or etching issues, you may need to call in a professional travertine cleaning and restoration company. They have access to more powerful cleaning solutions.
Tips to Prevent Future Staining
Prevention is the best way to keep outdoor travertine looking tip-top. Here are some pro tips:
- Seal travertine annually to protect from stains – especially around pools
- Place mats under furniture and planters to prevent dirt grinding in
- Clean up spills immediately before they seep in
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent abrasive dirt buildup
- Use coasters under glasses and pots
- Keep acidic foods and chemicals away from travertine
- Clean grills and greasy areas frequently
- Hose off fertilizers and yard chemicals if spilled
- Apply a protective treatment like Surface Guard
- Position travertine away from sources of rust or corrosion
With vigilant cleaning habits and protective measures, travertine can maintain its distinctive beauty and vintage Old World charm for many years.
Safest Cleaning Products for Travertine
Choosing the right cleaning products is key to safely and effectively cleaning outdoor travertine without causing damage. Here are some of the best options:
pH-Neutral Stone Cleaners
Look for cleaners specifically formulated for natural stone. These maintain a neutral pH balance to avoid etching the surface. Popular brands include HD Stone Cleaner, Black Diamond Stoneworks and Buckeye Tile & Stone Cleaner.
Mild Dish Soap
For routine light cleaning, basic dish soap works well. Avoid sudsy formulas as excess bubbles can sink into porous travertine – just use a small amount diluted in water.
Oxygen Bleach Cleaners
Non-chlorine oxygen bleach cleaners can lift some stubborn organic stains and discoloration without harming the stone. Just check that they are safe for natural stone.
Algaecides and Moss Killers
Special formulas exist to remove moss, mold and algae growth on patios and walkways. Ensure the product indicates it’s safe for travertine and stone.
Efflorescence Removers
To treat the mineral salt deposits that cause efflorescence, use a cleaner specially designed to remove it while being gentle on masonry.
Polishing Compounds
For honed travertine, a polishing powder can take out light etching and restore the surface shine. Use avariety formulated for travertine or limestone.
Always spot test cleaners on a small area first. Avoid abrasive powders, acidic or alkaline cleaners, bleach and vinegar which can damage stone. For heavily soiled travertine, call a professional stone cleaner rather than risking DIY damage.
Step-By-Step Deep Cleaning Process
For periodic deep cleaning of travertine:
Sweep – Sweep up debris with an outdoor broom. Use a soft bristle shop brush for corners.
Pre-soak – Wet the travertine thoroughly with a garden hose. This prevents the stone from absorbing too much water when scrubbing.
Mix Cleaner – In a 5 gallon bucket, mix 2-4 ounces of pH neutral stone cleaner per 1 gallon of warm water following label ratios.
Apply Cleaner – Use a hard-bristle deck brush to vigorously scrub the cleaning solution over the travertine. Focus on high traffic areas and grout lines.
Agitate – Allow the cleaner to dwell for 5-10 minutes while agitating with the brush. This gives the solution time to break down dirt and stains.
Rinse – Rinse the travertine thoroughly with a pressure nozzle. Avoid damaging pressure levels above 1000 PSI.
Extract Residue – Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract any remaining dirty solution from the pits and crevices.
Absorb Moisture – Blot up remaining moisture with clean microfiber cloths or a chamois. Allow to fully dry.
Re-seal – Apply a fresh coat of quality travertine sealer, especially around pool areas.
Repeat deep cleaning every 6-12 months for maximum results. Avoid waiting until travertine is badly stained to clean it.
Hiring a Professional Travertine Cleaning Service
For severely dirty or stained outdoor travertine, hiring a professional cleaning service may be the best option. Here’s what to look for when choosing a pro travertine cleaner:
- Experience – Look for established companies experienced specifically with travertine.
- Reputation – Check reviews and references to verify high quality service.
- Proper Equipment – Need truck-mounted extraction for best results.
- Specialty Cleaning Options – Can they do deep stain removal, efflorescence treatment, etc?
- Guarantees – The cleaner should stand behind their work if stains reappear shortly after.
- free Quote – Get an estimate of cost per square foot and estimated time frame.
- Licensed and Insured – Make sure the cleaner has all proper licenses and insurance.
Hiring a professional periodiclly to deep clean travertine is a great way to revive the look and get out stains you can’t treat yourself. Be sure to get maintenance tips from them too. Proper sealing is key.
DIY Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy make mistakes when attempting DIY cleaning of outdoor travertine. Avoid these common errors:
- Using vinegar, ammonia or bleach – these etch and discolor travertine.
- Letting spills sit – they can quickly get absorbed into the porous stone.
- Scrubbing too aggressively – can damage the natural texture.
- Using a pressure washer close up – aim from at least 12 inches away.
- Not rinsing thoroughly – left-over cleaning residue can stain.
- Not sealing regularly – leaves travertine unprotected from stains.
- Covering newly sealed travertine – can prevent proper curing.
- Using waxes or polishes – these can discolor travertine outdoors.
- Mixing chemicals – can create toxic fumes or damaging reactions.
- Allowing dirty furniture on travertine – legs grind in dirt. Use pads.
- Using steam cleaners – heat can damage stone.
Save yourself the headache by using proper stone cleaning methods right from the start.
FAQ About Cleaning Outdoor Travertine
Some frequently asked questions about keeping outdoor travertine clean:
How often should it be cleaned?
- Sweep weekly, wash monthly, deep clean 1-2 times per year. Clean spills ASAP.
What is the best way to clean travertine pool deck?
- Sweep frequently, use a pH-neutral cleaner weekly, and pressure wash annually. Reseal once a year.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my travertine patio?
- Yes, with caution – limit pressure to 500-1000 PSI and keep nozzle 12+ inches away to avoid damage.
What do I use to remove rust stains from travertine?
- Oxalic or phosphoric acid cleaners designed for natural stone can effectively remove rust marks.
How can I get chewing gum off my travertine steps?
- Freeze gum with compressed air or ice then gently pry off. Avoid using steam or heat.
What should I seal outdoor travertine with?
- Use a penetrating sealer specifically formulated for travertine or natural stone. Reapply yearly.
Why does my travertine have white powdery spots?
- This is likely efflorescence, a mineral deposit. Use an efflorescence remover and then seal.
Can I use Soft Scrub on my travertine patio?
- No, Soft Scrub is too abrasive for travertine and can damage the natural porous texture. Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner instead.
Maintaining Travertine’s Beauty
Outdoor travertine brings elegance and style to any landscape design. But keeping that refined, spa-like look takes careful maintenance. By using proper techniques and products, travertine patios, walkways and poolsides can maintain their gorgeous appearance for decades.
With routine sweeping and cleaning, prompt attention to spills, and periodic pressure washing and resealing, homeowners can enjoy durable, stunning travertine surfaces. Avoid DIY mistakes on valuable travertine. With some elbow grease and the right pH-balanced cleaners, travertine’s timeless beauty can be preserved.
Regular upkeep is the key – don’t wait until stains set in. Be diligent and keep outdoor travertine clean for an enduring, graceful landscape feature. With proper maintenance, travertine offers a lifetime of natural texture and charm.