Sandstone cleaning and sealing in Clovelly

Clovelly sandstone jobs are usually compact but detailed. A typical semi has front steps and a low wall facing the street, a side path running between it and the neighbour, and a small courtyard at the back. Unit blocks have shared steps, paths and fences that see far more traffic. The front gets salt and grime, the side path gets mould and algae, and the courtyard gets both plus leaf staining from nearby trees. Earlier pressure washing has often left the front steps rough and stripy. Because the spaces are small, the work is detailed rather than large, and planning access and water control matters more than the size of the area.

Our technicians clean each area for what is actually on it. Mould and algae get a biocide and dwell time, then a low-pressure rinse. Salt is brushed off and rinsed with fresh water. Grime gets a matched detergent. Rust and old acid stains are treated with poultices. In narrow passages, water is used sparingly and directed carefully so it doesn't run under doors, into subfloors or into neighbours' yards, and every drop of run-off is collected short of the street. Bins, bikes and pot plants are moved and returned. Where a passage is shared, we let both households know when we will be working there.

Front steps, paths and courtyard paving tend to respond well to a breathable penetrating sealer, which slows staining and salt uptake and helps shaded paving dry faster after rain. Walls that carry moisture from the soil, including courtyard retaining walls, are usually left unsealed so they can breathe. We show you natural and enhancing finishes on small test patches, so you can see how each looks on your own stone before deciding. The product and date are recorded so the next reseal is simple. For semis, if your neighbour is having their half done at the same time, we use the same product on both so the steps and wall line match.