Concrete - Stone Care Guide

Concrete Stone Care Guide

Properties, maintenance, and expert advice for concrete surfaces

Hardness5/10 Mohs
PorosityHigh
Acid SensitiveNo - acid resistant
Frost ResistantYes
Slip Risk (wet)Medium

About Concrete

Concrete stone and pavers are manufactured products made from cement, aggregates, and pigments, pressed or cast into shape. They offer exceptional versatility in colours, shapes, and textures at a fraction of the cost of natural stone. Modern concrete pavers can convincingly replicate the appearance of natural stone, brick, or aged flagstone.

Concrete is alkaline and porous - it readily absorbs water, oil, and stains. Protective sealing is therefore highly recommended, particularly for driveways, patios, and any surface exposed to vehicles or food preparation. Without protection, concrete quickly develops stubborn stains that are difficult to remove.

New concrete can develop efflorescence - white salt deposits that rise to the surface as moisture evaporates. This is a natural process that typically diminishes within the first year. Outdoors, concrete is susceptible to biological growth (algae, moss, lichen) in shaded or moist areas. Regular preventive treatment significantly reduces maintenance effort.

Characteristics

  • Manufactured from cement, aggregates, pigments
  • Highly porous and absorbent
  • Alkaline composition
  • Frost-resistant when properly manufactured
  • Efflorescence common on new installations

Common Uses

  • Driveways and parking areas
  • Garden terraces
  • Pathways and walkways
  • Pool surrounds
  • Retaining walls
  • Interior polished floors

Popular Varieties

  • Pressed concrete pavers
  • Cast concrete slabs
  • Exposed aggregate concrete
  • Polished concrete (interior)
  • Stamped concrete
  • Concrete cobblestones

Care Essentials

  • Seal after installation to prevent staining
  • Allow new concrete to cure fully (28 days) before sealing
  • Treat algae and moss preventively in autumn
  • Clean oil stains promptly - they penetrate deeply
  • Re-seal every 2-3 years for outdoor applications

Common Problems

  • Efflorescence (white salt deposits)
  • Algae and moss growth (outdoor)
  • Oil and tyre marks (driveways)
  • Deep staining from absorbed liquids
  • Cement residue after laying

Recommended Products for Concrete

Need personalised advice?

Use our Lithofinder to find the right product for your specific concrete problem, or chat with our stone care expert.