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How to Protect Your Outdoor Stone in the Summer Heat
Outdoor stone adds natural beauty and elegance to patios, pool decks, and outdoor kitchens — but Midwest summer heat can be harsh on these surfaces.
Intense sun, soaring temperatures, unrelenting humidity, and fluctuating weather patterns can cause fading, cracking, and general wear. At Gaumats International, we want your investment to last for years. Here’s how to protect your outdoor stone when the temperature rises this summer.
1. Seal It Tight, Seal It Right
As we’re quick to point out to clients, high temperatures and UV rays can accelerate the deterioration of unsealed stone. Applying a premium stone sealer provides a protective barrier against:
- UV damage and color fading.
- Moisture absorption.
- Stains from leaves, food, and oil.
Pro tip? We recommend resealing every 1 – 2 years depending on traffic and exposure. Ask us about our premium, weather-tested sealers!
2. Shade Is Your Stone’s Best Friend
Trust us, while stone is strong, it appreciates a little shade. Consider:
- Installing pergolas or shade sails.
- Using outdoor rugs in high-traffic areas.
- Moving furniture to avoid heat hotspots.
This not only protects your stone but keeps outdoor spaces cooler and more comfortable. Our suggestion? Consider retractable covers for larger spaces like outdoor kitchens and patios.
3. Clean Regularly, But With the Correct Products
Dirt and debris can bake onto hot stone and cause long-term damage.
Be sure to:
- Use a soft broom or brush weekly.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Use pH-neutral stone-safe cleaners — never harsh chemicals.
More than anything, avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can eat away at the finish or natural minerals in the stone. And, yes, in case you were wondering, Gaumats offers a full range of stone-safe cleaners ideal for outdoor surfaces.
4. Watch for Cracks and Chips
Summer heat can expand small cracks into big problems. Inspect your stone surfaces regularly for signs of damage. The smallest of cracks can expand with temperature swings, leading to more costly repairs down the road.
More than anything, catching problems early helps preserve your investment.
5. Choose the Right Stone For the Climate
Some stones handle heat better than others. For example, granite and travertine typically perform well outdoors, while marble may require more frequent maintenance in harsh conditions.
Ask one of our friendly, knowledgeable pros to help you choose a stone that best suits your needs.
Let Gaumats Help You Get Summer-Ready
Whether you’re looking to install new stone surfaces or maintain your existing ones, our team at Gaumats International is here to help. Visit our showroom or call us today for expert advice and high-quality stone care products.
Remember — your stone is timeless. Let’s keep it that way.
The above image was sourced from Pinterest and is used for inspiration or illustrative purposes only. Full credit belongs to the original creator. If you are the owner of any image and wish to receive proper credit or request its removal, please contact us.
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