CARE GUIDE: How to Maintain and Care for Your Tennessee Orchard Stone Outdoors

Frederick M Hueston StoneForensics.com

What is Tennessee Orchard Stone?
Tennessee Orchard Stone is a beautiful natural sandstone with warm, rustic colors like tan, orange, and pink. It’s often used for patios, walkways, and outdoor walls. Like any natural stone, it needs regular care to stay looking great and last a long time.

🧹 Regular Cleaning

• Sweep Often – Use a broom or leaf blower to remove leaves, dirt, and debris.
• Rinse with Water – A quick spray from the garden hose helps keep the stone clean.
• Use Low Pressure Only – If you use a pressure washer, keep it under 1000 PSI and at least 12 inches away to avoid damage.

🧼 How to Clean It

• Choose the Right Cleaner – Use a pH-neutral cleaner made for natural stone. Avoid vinegar, bleach, or anything acidic—they can damage the surface.
• Tackle Stains Quickly:
  • Rust stains: Use a rust-removing poultice safe for sandstone.
  • Mildew or leaf stains: A mix of hydrogen peroxide and water works well—test a small area first.
  • Grease or oil: Use a degreasing cleaner made for stone.

🛡️ Sealing the Stone

• Use a Penetrating Sealer – This soaks into the stone to protect it from stains and water, without making the surface shiny or slippery.
• Avoid Coatings or Glossy Sealers – These can trap moisture and cause damage over time.
• Reseal Every 2–3 Years – To keep it protected, especially in wet or cold areas.

❄️ Winter & Freeze Protection

• Keep Water from Pooling – Make sure your patio or walkway drains well to avoid freezing damage.
• Don’t Use Salt or Ice Melt – These can harm the stone. Use sand or calcium magnesium acetate instead for traction.

💡 Restoration Tips (When It Needs a Little Help)

• Stains Not Coming Out? – A poultice (stone-safe paste) can draw out deep stains.
• Stone Looks Worn? – Professionals can hone or clean it to bring back its original beauty.
• White Powdery Look? – That’s likely efflorescence from moisture. A stone-safe efflorescence cleaner can fix it.

📝 Final Tips

• Always test any cleaner or sealer in a small area first.
• When in doubt, ask a stone care professional—especially before using strong cleaners or doing restoration work.
• Regular care keeps your Orchard Stone looking stunning for decades.