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How to remove rust from paving slabs

Mark Atkins, technical director at LTP, explains some of the different kinds of stains rust can cause and how to deal with them

Rust is a common cause of staining on outdoor pavers and marks can be difficult to remove – especially if you don’t know the origin of the stain. Although rust generally always creates an orange-coloured stain on the face of a paver, there are actually two different types: surface stains caused by external objects/deposits and naturally-occurring stains. Once you’ve established the root of the problem – and are armed with the correct treatment – removal can be swift and effective.

Surface rust stains
Most rust stains are caused by metal objects. Outdoors, common culprits include rusting BBQs, metal umbrella stands, pots and garden tools. Tiny deposits of iron wash off the surface of the objects when they come into contact with moisture and these deposits then leave a rust stain. They’re generally easy to identify because the stain often mirrors the exact shape of the rusting metal object that was sitting on the surface.

In addition, some weed killers and lawn fertilisers can create rust stains, caused by ferric sulphate iron particles within them. These stains appear as little spots of rust.

Naturally-occurring rust stains
Rust or orange-coloured discolouration can appear naturally within hard ferrous-type stone pavers; this is especially common in sandstone. These stones naturally contain iron which can oxidise or rust when it comes into contact with rain. Stains often appear after laying and are easy to identify because the appearance is normally a gradual phasing in that results in a bloom of orange colour across the surface of the stone.

The stain removal solutions
Jet washing, scrubbing with soapy water and treatment with harsh chemicals like brick acid won’t remove these stains – but the right chemical will.

Surface rust stains: For these stains, we recommend LTP Rust Stain Remover – a non-caustic solution that’s safe to use on all types of polished and unpolished natural and artificial stone tiles, including marble, granite, travertine, split face stone cladding, sandstone, concrete, terracotta, ceramic and porcelain. The remover is applied neat to a clean surface and left to act for 15 minutes. During this time, the product will change to a deep purple as it reacts with the rust. Residue is then removed, the surface rinsed thoroughly with plenty of water and tiles should be left to dry. Application can be repeated if any staining remains.

Naturally-occurring rust stains: For these stains, we recommend LTP Ferrex – an acid-based cleaner but the right kind of acid for harder stones! Ferrex is designed for hard ferrous stones including sandstone, granite and slate. However, it isn’t suitable for use on acid sensitive surfaces, like limestone, marble or pavers with a highly polished finish. During application, Ferrex is applied evenly to the tile surface; in external applications, a garden sprayer can be used. If staining is severe, the surface should be agitated using a short haired scrubbing brush or black emulsifying pad. After 3–6 hours, rinse with plenty of clean water. If traces remain after a couple of days, the process can be repeated.

Some natural stones will appear darker after treatment, as the product continues to work following the initial application. This is normal and the darkening effect will gradually subside.
01823 666213
info@ltp-online.co.uk

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