Removing algae from stones with household remedies
Ugly deposits of moss and algae often form on the stones on the terrace and are very difficult to remove. These are not only unsightly, but also make the floor dangerously slippery and should be removed.
How to get rid of algae on the terrace again
It doesn’t always have to be chemicals that remove algae or other growths from the stones on the terrace. Often, household remedies are sufficient to get rid of algae growth without damaging the surface of the stones. One of the most commonly used household remedies is vinegar, for example, which, when applied undiluted, helps to control the pest and remove ugly stains from the stones or flagstones. The best way to do this is as follows:
- First scrape off or remove the coarse dirt.
- Then apply undiluted vinegar or a little diluted vinegar essence.
- allow the agent to take effect
- then remove the brown discolouration with a hard broom.
- Repeat the cleaning process if necessary
Also of interest: Cleaning granite with a pressure washer
Where you should not use vinegar or vinegar essence
If you are dealing with natural stone, marble or calcareous floors, you should not use vinegar, as stains could form. It is better to use manual cleaning or gentle cleaning agents from specialist retailers that do not damage the sensitive surfaces of these materials.
Also of interest: Painting Douglas fir correctly
Use a pressure washer to clean the terrace
Most deposits of a coarse nature disappear through manual cleaning, which can also be done with a pressure washer as an alternative to a joint scraper or a hard broom. This method is particularly suitable if you need to remove this type of contamination from somewhat larger terraces or surfaces. Normally, this is also a relatively gentle cleaning method if no chemical cleaning additives are used and the pressure is not set too high or the distance to the slabs or stones is sufficiently high during cleaning.
Also of interest: Cleaning the patio roof: 3 techniques at a glance
Getting rid of stubborn dirt and algae growth
If necessary, you can also use a small gas burner to remove ugly growth between the stones. However, you should of course be very careful with this method so as not to damage any flammable objects.
