Travertine cleaning and sealing in Maroubra

Travertine pool decks and terraces near Maroubra Beach show a familiar progression. First the holes open up and fill with sand, grime and sunscreen. Then the coping beside the pool stays darker and damp for longer than the surrounding deck. Finally, the edges at the waterline turn rough as salt crystallises inside the stone. Unit block pool areas often show it fastest, because they get heavy use through summer and are cleaned with whatever is to hand. Dealing with it while the damage is still shallow keeps the original stone in place and avoids the disruption of lifting and replacing pavers around a shared pool.

Travertine dissolves in acid, so acidic pool and patio cleaners leave it etched and dull. Our cleaners are alkaline and made for travertine and limestone; they are worked into the holes with soft pads on a slow machine and rinsed off gently. Pool water is shielded, outdoor furniture is moved, and run-off is contained so none of it enters the pool, the garden or the drains. For strata pool areas we agree a closure window with the building manager and post notices. Any etching already present is pointed out on the day, because it needs honing rather than a clean.

When the surface is completely dry, holes are packed with a tinted filler to suit the stone, then a penetrating sealer suited to salt exposure is applied in thin coats and the excess wiped away. Nothing is left on the surface as a film, so the deck keeps its grip under wet feet. We confirm when the area can reopen and note the product, date and areas in a short report, which is useful for strata records. Rinsing the coping with fresh water after heavy use and checking it each summer with a few drops of water will tell you when the sealer needs renewing.