How to remove mold from sandstone pavers

Depending on where you have placed sandstone pavers in your home, some areas may be prone to mold over time. This is especially prevalent in bathrooms, patios, pool areas, and even kitchens. Mold thrives in these areas because sandstone has a porous surface that absorbs mold spores, which will grow if they come in contact with enough water. Since some molds are toxic to humans and pets, causing unsightly discoloration on sandstone, it is always preferable to remove the growth as soon as possible.

Before treating sandstone for mold growth, it’s important to always wear rubber gloves, safety glasses, and the proper respirator to make sure mold spores don’t settle on your body and cause serious health problems. You should also remember to moisten sandstone mold before scrubbing it down, as this will help prevent the spores from being released into the environment and spreading.

Chlorine bleach

For this treatment, you will need to mix equal parts chlorine bleach and water in a spray bottle. Spray a generous amount of this solution on the mold and leave it on the sandstone for 10 – 15 minutes. Spray the sandstone a second time. Then, scrub away the mold with a stiff-bristled brush, and finish by rinsing with clean water. You can repeat this treatment if necessary.

antimicrobial spray

For this treatment, you will need to purchase a commercial antimicrobial spray, available at most supermarkets. Spray it on moldy sections of your sandstone. If the area you’re treating is fairly large, rent a fogger, which will allow the antimicrobial mist to settle on the mold more quickly than spraying by hand. Let the spray dry completely, as it forms an airtight layer on top of the sandstone which actually suffocates mold. Next, soak an old rag in the antimicrobial spray and use it to scrub the sandstone to remove any dead mold.

Hydrogen peroxide

For this treatment, you will need to purchase a few hydrogen peroxide solutions of different concentrations. For a 3% solution on the mold and scrub with a soft bristle brush. Sometimes mold embeds itself deep into the sandstone, requiring it to undergo more than one treatment. Remember to let the sandstone dry between each treatment. However, if the mold problem has not been resolved, repeat the process with a 35% hydrogen peroxide solution.

Once you’ve eliminated mold and moss growth on your sandstone, you’ll need to make sure you reseal it to prevent regrowth. Although you can remove mold from sandstone, the process involves the use of some chemicals that are less desirable for human inhalation, so should not be applied constantly.