You’ve just installed the stunning cool ivory-colored travertine pavers around your pool and it has been stained. What to do now? Don’t worry as travertine is known for its durability and ease of maintenance. So you can relax while we share the secret with you on how to clean a travertine pool deck.
To clean a travertine pool deck, you need an push broom to sweep away the surface dirt. Then, use a natural stone cleaner or pH-neutral cleaning agent to scrub the deck and wash it off with a hose. Avoid acidic cleaners, as they can damage outdoor travertine. With just 15 minutes of regular maintenance, you can prevent the need for pressure washing your deck.
While travertine is an optimum choice when looking for durability and aesthetics, with a bit of work you can make it look at its prime for several years. Let us reveal some tested tips and tricks that’ll help keep your travertine shining for longer than you expected.
Regular Cleaning of Travertine Pool Deck
Here is the routine cleaning schedule for your travertine pool deck:
Sweeping
Make a habit of sweeping outdoor travertine pavers more frequently, as it would stop dirt and grime from accumulating. Use a dust mop or an old push broom for this purpose. However, if regular cleaning isn’t possible, consider giving an occasional pressure wash.
Cleaning with Mild Solution
Keep a stone cleaner specifically made for natural stone at home to remove stains off travertine. If not available, you can use a solution of mild soap in warm water for immediate cleaning.
Washing with Hose
Scrub the stains using a sponge or soft cloth and thoroughly rinse the deck with a hose. Using a pressurized hose is always effective in removing dirt and grime that has been sitting in for an extended time.
Pressure Washing Travertine – Is it Safe?
Yes, you can pressure wash travertine if there is a significant accumulation of dirt or soil for not cleaning it up in a long time. However, keep the pressure low otherwise it will damage the surface. Once you’re done, reseal your travertine.
While pressure washing helps procure the shiny stone appearance of travertine, it shouldn’t be the first choice.
How To Clean Mildew Off Travertine Pool Deck?
Always invest in a store-bought peroxide-based cleaner to remove mildew from travertine. Never use anything acidic as it can damage your pool deck.
The water trapped under the pool deck’s surface encourages organic growth. Ultimately, prolonged exposure to mold and mildew causes respiratory illness. That’s why, it shouldn’t be allowed to remain there for a long time.
Advanced & Effective Techniques to Deep Clean Travertine Pool
The following techniques are effective for deep cleaning travertine pavers that have gone without rinsing for an extended period:
Treating with Poultice
A poultice is a mixture of baking soda and natural stone cleaner, applied to remove oil, grease, and other tough stains from travertine. You can use water if a stone cleaner isn’t available. Cover the stained area in a thick layer of poultice and place a plastic wrap on it. It works by soaking up the stain from the surface. Let it dry for 24 hours, then scrape it off, and rinse.
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning is effective for combating organic stains such as food spills and algal growth. Due to the porous nature of the stone, these stains and molds can be deep-seated if not cleaned regularly. When using a steam cleaner, set it to a low-pressure setting and test it on a small area first. It’s advisable to steam clean your deck not more than twice a year.
Best Cleaner for Outdoor Travertine
The best option for travertine pavers is a store-bought natural stone cleaner for regular cleaning purposes. However, poultice works best against the tough stains including wine, ketchup, and sodas.
Things You Should Not Use On Travertine
The following cleaning agents shouldn’t be used as they aren’t suitable for travertine:
- Bleach
- Acids (including lemon, vinegar)
- General-purpose cleaners
- Ammonia
- Commercial cleaners (not formulated for travertine)
- Scouring powder or cream
Common Problems with Travertine Pool Deck
Homeowners with travertine pavers in their patio or backyard pool may encounter certain issues:
1. Cracking and Chipping
Due to its natural composition and exposure to outdoor elements, travertine can develop cracks over time, especially in areas with freeze-thaw cycles.
2. Efflorescence
This is the white, powdery residue that can appear on the surface of travertine due to mineral deposits leaching out of the stone.
3. Etching
Etching is typically more noticeable on polished or honed travertine surfaces. It occurs when acidic liquids come into contact with travertine causing a reaction, leaving behind marks or spots on the surface.
However, filling any cracks as they appear and ensuring your deck is sealed or resealed as needed can help prevent these problems.
Sealing Travertine Pool Deck – Is it Necessary?
Yes, sealing a travertine pool deck is necessary to avoid the risks associated with an unsealed deck. The porosity of travertine allows dirt, algae, and stains to enter and sit in the tiny holes, ruining the appearance of the deck.
Additionally, owning a saltwater pool presents an extra challenge with an unsealed deck. Water seeps through the pores and causes salt erosion, the phenomenon called efflorescence. Therefore, it’s important to address chemical balance issues and protect the deck from harm.
How To Maintain Outdoor Travertine? Hacks You Might Not Know
Make sure that your travertine pool deck remains in excellent condition by following these hacks:
1. Cracks Repair
- Clean the cracks thoroughly and use epoxy or a suitable filler to fill the cracks.
- For larger cracks or damage, consult a professional to assess and repair the travertine properly.
2. Heavy Furniture Movement
- Avoid dragging heavy furniture across the travertine surface to prevent scratching or damaging the tiles.
- Use furniture pads or sliders underneath heavy objects to reduce friction and prevent damage to the travertine.
3. Managing Weed Growth
- Regularly inspect the joints and gaps between travertine tiles for any weed growth.
- Keep the area around the travertine pool deck clear of weeds manually or use a weed killer.
Travertine Pool Deck Cleaning Service in Georgia
Though travertine pavers require little to low maintenance, some stains aren’t easy to deal with for homeowners which includes molds, and pollens. Having trees or plants on the property makes it worse during peak pollen season.
That’s where you need to call in a professional like Georgia Pool Cleaning to help you wipe them off. Since pollen can trigger seasonal allergies, prompt actions are required. Besides cleaning travertine, we offer regular cleaning and maintenance services for your backyard pool. Get in touch with our experts to receive a personalized quote for travertine deck maintenance.
Final Words
Caring for a travertine pool deck doesn’t have to be a daunting task. As you’ve learned, with the right techniques and regular maintenance, keeping your deck clean and beautiful is achievable. If you need assistance with maintenance, consider reaching out to a professional. Contact us today to schedule expert maintenance services.