As a result of this year’s sustained heat and drought, 2025 is set to surpass the famous summer of 1976. It’s no surprise that outdoor spaces are looking a little lacklustre and, in the case of black limestone, rather faded. So, why has this happened and can anything be done to restore colour and avoid the process repeating?
Even in cooler years, UV-rays, humidity and rainwater all contribute to this discolouration, as does erosion caused by general wear and tear. Acidic maintenance chemicals can also accelerate damage, as can jet washing.
How to protect new slabs – and restore an existing patio
Good quality water-resistant sealers go a long way in reducing discolouration – and many can enhance colour too – but rainfall also damages the protection that they create. Topical sealers can be worn away and rainwater that seeps into the stone’s porosity will eventually compromise the effectiveness of an impregnator. For a long-term solution – which protects the stone and its colour – we recommend ECOPROTEC Black Stone Colour Restorer. A water-based, impregnating sealer, Black Stone Colour Restorer contains a permanent colour intensifying pigment. To maintain a very dark, pristine finish, annual treatment is recommended, although a treated stone will maintain a far darker aesthetic than an untreated stone for around 4-5 years.
Why good preparation is key
It’s very important to ensure that surfaces are properly cleaned and prepared before applying a restorative treatment, like ECOPROTEC Black Stone Colour Restorer. Any solution applied will mix with residue and loose limestone particles; this can be caused by etching when the stone comes into contact with acidic rain. The etching will create a sediment which will be carried into newly exposed capillaries and the sealer, in turn, will draw the sediment out of open pores. When this residue mixes with the sealer, it will create a smeared and patchy appearance. If you rub your hand across the surface before cleaning, you’ll see a dusty residue; that’s the limestone sediment. Cleaning the surface opens the pores and removes the sediment. We recommend our ECOPROTEC Intensive Cleaner for a thorough conditioning clean and ECOPROTEC Black Spot & Algae Remover for areas that are stained with blackspot, algae and mildew, etc.
How to apply ECOPROTEC Black Stone Colour Restorer
Before application, test the solution on a small area to help establish the best method and number of coats needed. Ideally, apply in temperatures between 5-25°c. Do not walk on treated surfaces until the treatment has completely dried and wear gloves during application. Shake bottle before use.
- Apply the Restorer on clean, dry slabs, working in manageable areas; apply a small amount of neat solution and spread it out evenly using a sealant applicator, foam roller or paint brush. Allow the solution to penetrate the paver. If a second coat is required, apply it immediately after the first coat has absorbed; do not allow the first coat to fully dry before application.
- Don’t walk on the surface for at least four hours after final application. Once dry, it may be necessary to work off any visible excess using a dry towel.
- Allow newly treated surfaces to cure for 24 hours. You can check that pavers are colourfast by gently rubbing the surface in a few areas with a white cloth or kitchen towel.
When you come to apply the sealer, don’t be tempted to over-apply in order to achieve a darker finish or speed the process up. Less is more. It’s far better to apply a couple of thin layers than one thick layer. If you apply too much product in one go it won’t be absorbed properly and the finish will be patchy.
Note. Pets and children should be kept away from areas to be treated during application and until pavers are dry and the treatment is fully absorbed. If the solution comes into contact with grass and plants, wash off with water once the pavers are dry.
For more advice, browse ECOPROTEC TV on YouTube, contact the ECOPROTEC team direct on 01823 662722 or email technical@ecoprotec.co.uk
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For media information and photography, please contact Angela Fitzhugh PR Ltd on tel. (01579) 673026 or email angie@afpr.co.uk
