Problems With Limestone Pavers

Limestone Stains

• Mortar is a compound that is applied to the paver joints to help them adhere to a surface. Mortar can discolor the limestone if any spills on the surface of the stone and dries before it is removed. Mortar often dries as a dull gray color, which can give your limestone pavers an unsightly and unnatural look. Mortar can be difficult to remove once it has set. Organic stains can also occur due to the decomposition of flowers, leaves or other plants. Oil and dye stains can also discolor limestone.

Limestone Weathering

• Limestone pavers can deteriorate due to stress caused by the elements. Hot temperatures and rainwater with heavy acid levels can cause limestone to deteriorate and lose its details. High winds can also cause limestone to crumble along its corners or cause some surface loss.

Limestone Erosion

• Limestone can erode due to the elements, or it can wear away due to debris or other particles driven into the stone by the wind. Limestone pavers built at an angle or on a high elevation are particular susceptible to erosion due to airborne particles. These particles can cause the limestone to crumble away over time or damage the finish of the stone.

Solutions

• Mortar stains on the limestone can often be removed by a commercial cleaner specifically designed for natural-stone stain removal. Many commercial cleaners will also remove the limestone along with the stain, so be sure to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on the entire paver. Follow the directions on the commercial cleaner's product label for specific application instructions. Erosion can be prevented by grading your lawn in a way that blocks the wind, and therefore any large airborne particles, from coming into contact with your limestone and damaging it. A limestone paver damaged by weathering or erosion often cannot be restored and must be replaced.