Pictured: Handcrafted in Hermitage by Horizon Stone
As the end-of-year holiday season approaches, it’s time to get those decorations out of the garage, attic, or basement, and prep the home for festive celebrations! You may also take this time to perform a quick exterior cleaning so that your home has an extra shine to greet all visitors. Horizon Stone products are engineered for long-lasting appearance and easy maintenance all year long, completing your luxurious curb appeal with organic beauty. Before the holidays get underway, here are our valuable tips for how to care for your stone:
Before You Clean – Prior to cleaning, take a moment to check for any damaged stones to ensure your home exterior is in tip-top condition. Horizon Stone products offer tremendous ease of installation for efficient repairs when needed.
- If you need to repair a crack or loose mortar, fill a mortar bag with a color of type S mortar that best matches. Apply a medium tip to the bag and fill in any cracks. Wearing a latex glove, dampen your finger to smooth the mortar and create a finished surface.
- As you look over your exterior stone veneer for cracks or damaged stones, make note of any stains or discolorations that may have accumulated during the rainy season.
Proper Cleaning – Create a gentle cleaning solution by mixing one cup of mild dishwashing or laundry detergent with three gallons of hot, clean water. Do not use muriatic acid, harsh chemicals, wire brushes, or pressure washers to clean your stone veneer
- Use a clean cloth, sponge, or soft brush to thoroughly wipe down the stone and easily remove any stains.
- Rinse the stone with a low-pressure hose to remove the cleaning solution and particles, then let the exterior air dry.
Additional Considerations – Since Horizon Stone products can experience color variation and scuffing like natural stone, use water and a soft brush to remove scuffing, rinse the stone with a low-pressure hose, and let air dry. Lastly, clean all windows, doors, and front porches of marks, cobwebs, and debris. Pressure wash other exterior materials such as siding, as well as driveways and sidewalks so that the entire property shines as equally bright as the stone veneer elements!
Using Sealants – Although Horizon Stone products do not require a sealer, if you live in a climate that experiences extreme weather or moisture, using a sealant can provide an extra layer of protection against the elements, stains, and potential color deterioration. Use only breathable silane or siloxane-based sealants and avoid any products with acid. Apply two coats of sealer with a paintbrush, allowing the first to dry according to the label instructions before applying the second.
With Horizon Stone veneer, you can spend less time worrying about maintaining your home exterior and more time planning your next great holiday party to show off the home! Visit our Horizon Stone “Halloween Home Décor” Pinterest Board for inspired decorating ideas and kick off your fall and winter holidays with the confidence of knowing your home is radiant and spot-free.