Spectrum External Brochure - Flipbook - Page 32
Cleaning & Maintenance
Once you’ve completed your landscaping project,
here are some useful tips and advice for the
ongoing maintenance...
Regular Cleaning
Sweep the surface regularly to remove dirt, leaves and other debris. This
prevents dirt from accumulating and potentially staining the paving. Use
a mild detergent or soap mixed with water to clean the surface. Apply
the solution with a soft-bristle brush or mop and scrub gently. Avoid
using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the
surface. Rinse the paving thoroughly with clean water to remove any
soap residue.
Pre-Grout Sealer
It is advisable to use a ‘pre-grout’ sealer on porcelain to aid
the cleaning process after your new patio has been jointed.
All grout should be toughly cleaned off as you work over
the patio in sections - see page 30.
Stain Removal
Promptly clean up spills, such as oil, grease, or food stains, to
avoid staining on the grout lines. For stubborn stains, you can
use a mild acid-based cleaner specifically designed for porcelain
surfaces. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and
test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure
compatibility.
Deep Cleaning
Use a mild detergent or soap mixed with water and scrub the surface
of the porcelain paving with a scrubbing brush or pad to agitate the
cleaning solution and remove stubborn stains. Work in small sections,
to ensure thorough cleaning and avoid using harsh chemicals or
abrasive cleaners that could damage the porcelain.
Autumn Time
During leaf fall, try and clear the leaves as regularly as you
can. Some leaves can rot down causing staining from the
tannins that leach out. Piles of leaves may also encourage
algae bloom & lichen, so treat with a cleaner designed for
porcelain paving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is porcelain paving?
Is porcelain paving environmentally friendly?
Porcelain paving are durable pavers made from a mixture of clay, sand
and other natural minerals. These are fired at high temperatures,
resulting in a dense and hard-wearing material suitable for outdoor
use.
Yes, porcelain paving is considered environmentally friendly
due to its sustainable manufacturing process, long lifespan
and recyclability. It requires fewer natural resources and
produces less waste compared to other paving materials,
making it a greener choice for outdoor projects.
How does porcelain paving compare to natural stone?
Porcelain paving offers many advantages over natural stone, including
greater durability, resistance to staining, weathering and a wider range
of design options. Additionally, porcelain paving is often more
cost-effective and easier to maintain than natural stone.
Is porcelain paving suitable for all climates?
Yes, porcelain paving is highly resistant to temperature fluctuations,
frost and moisture, making it suitable for use in all climates. Its
non-porous surface also helps to prevent water absorption and
minimize the risk of cracking or damage in freezing conditions.
Is porcelain paving easy to maintain?
Yes, porcelain paving is known for its low maintenance requirements.
Regular sweeping or washing with water is usually sufficient to keep
the surface clean. Additionally, porcelain paving is resistant to stains,
moss and algae growth, reducing the need for intensive cleaning or
treatments.
How is porcelain paving installed?
Porcelain pavers are typically installed using a suitable
outdoor paving adhesive or mortar applied to a prepared
base. These are then laid in the desired pattern (See Page 31),
with plastic spacers used to maintain consistent spacing
between the pavers. Once in place, joints are filled with grout
or jointing compound. Please note, it is not advisable to butt
joint porcelain paving, as this can cause problems with
installation due to tolerances in the size of the porcelain slabs
(which can be as much as +/- 2mm).
Porcelain can be laid on three different bases:
(Always seek professional advice from your installer)
How long does porcelain paving last?
With proper installation and maintenance, porcelain paving can last for
many years, often outlasting other outdoor paving materials such as
concrete or natural stone. Its durability and resistance to fading,
cracking and weathering make it a long-term investment in outdoor
landscaping.
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ON A SOLID BASE
ON A FULL
MORTAR BED
ON A RAISED OR
PEDESTAL SYSTEM
