What mould treatment for Travertine pavers?

[geoffr]

We've recently had laid travertine pavers in a courtyard that I plan to seal (as soon as I finish filling all the holes with mortar to prevent water seeping through them). In the meantime, with all the rain, some pavers are getting patches of back mould. I've heard travertine is quite porous and harsh chemicals and scourers should be avoided. What product / procedure can you recommend to clean the pavers prior to sealing them?

Also, I've left a thin residue of the dry mortar over some pavers -- best way to remove that?

Thanks,

Geoff

[JacobZ]

Hi @geoffr, 

You're absolutely right to be cautious, travertine is a beautiful but porous stone that needs gentle care, especially before sealing.

Harsh acidic cleaners should be avoided, but this 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner Concentrate shouldn't cause any harm. It is a bleach-based cleaner that will neutralise the mould effectively. Give the mould a clean with this, then follow up with a pressure washer with the nozzle held a good distance away from your pavers.

This same procedure should do the trick removing the mortar as well.

Let me know how you go and if you require further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out.

Jacob

[geoffr]

Thanks Jacob!

[JacobZ]

Hi @geoffr,

No worries!

I thought I should just add that it would be worthwhile doing a patch test with the 30 Seconds cleaner in an inconspicuous area before fully committing to it. It is an alkaline cleaner, which has some potential to lighten the colour of the travertine.

If the patch test shows signs of discolouration, dilute it with more water before applying.

It may also be worthwhile giving the surface a scrub with a Oates Long Handle Deck Scrub Brush to agitate the mould and get the stuff that is in the pores of the stone.

Good luck!

Jacob

[geoffr]

Jacob, I'm buying some Chemtech Brick Tile And Paver Cleaner for another purpose. Will this also work? - or too harsh?

Geoff

[JacobZ]

Hi @geoffr,

Chemtech Brick Tile And Paver Cleaner is an acid-based cleaner. Acidic cleaners will likely do more harm than good.

I wouldn't suggest you use it.

Jacob