The outdoor parking area can look quite premium and different if you use stone tiles for it. The reasons include the high durability, aesthetic appeal, and long-lasting performance of stone-finish tiles. However, like any outdoor surface, stone tiles also require regular maintenance to maintain their appearance. Unlike traditional concrete, which is prone to cracks, stone tiles are both more resilient and visually pleasing, making them a better choice for reducing maintenance.

In this post, we’ll explore the right way to care for stone tiles.

Why Choose Stone Tiles for Outdoor Parking Areas?

At first, concrete seems like a more budget-friendly choice, but over time, it may develop cracks and stains, and may not complement all design choices. Especially in outdoor settings, such as parking areas, you end up spending a lot to maintain them over the years.

Stone tiles from premium brands like Simpolo Tiles and Bathware are known for their sleek and polished look. They are much more resistant to damage, such as cracking or staining, because they are essentially vitrified tiles that mimic the look of natural stones. Stone tiles, however, are chosen not only for their appearance but also for their performance. If installed right, stone tiles can last for decades. They are quite durable, making it a great choice for outdoor spaces like parking lots where there is a lot of vehicle movement.

Cleaning and Maintaining Stone Tiles

Cleaning stone tiles should not be a very time-consuming chore. Here’s a simple routine you can follow:

• Regular sweeping: Stone tiles can accumulate dirt and debris. These can be easily removed with regular sweeping or vacuuming. Be careful to always spot them early on, as constant build can result in wear and tear.
  
• Mopping: Stone tiles are generally stain-resistant. However, some stains can be stubborn, especially if you have left them unattended for a long time. Be proactive and clean up any spills as soon as you spot them. Use a mild detergent mixed with warm water to wipe up spills and stains before they have a chance to set.
  
• Avoiding harsh chemicals: Don’t use any harsh chemicals to clean stone tiles. An ideal choice would be a mild, pH-balanced, stone-safe cleaner.

Sealing and Protecting Your Stone Tiles

Since a parking area sees a lot of vehicle movements, the sealants can erode. So, you should seal your stone tiles every year or so.

The outdoor parking tiles must withstand the weight of large vehicles moving over them almost every day. It’s a good idea to use protective mats or rubber mats as a cushion, especially when cars are parked for an extended period. This prevents any tire marks or heavy pressure from causing long-term damage to your tiles.

Sealant does wear off after some time. Therefore, the best way to preserve the tiles is to regularly reapply the sealant. That way, you keep the tiles working for longer. When applying any sealant, clean the surface thoroughly to ensure that no dirt is trapped underneath.

How to manage Stains on Stone Tiles?

Since parking tiles are placed in high-traffic areas, stains are particularly common. But most stains can be easily treated if you catch them early.

• Oil and grease stains: Oil or grease stains from cars are far too common in parking areas. Make a thick paste by mixing baking soda and water. Once the paste is prepared, apply it to the stain and let it soak for about 15 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft brush. If the stain persists, select a cleaner specifically designed for stone tiles.
  

• Tire marks: Tire marks on stone tiles can be removed by using a mild detergent on them. Mix the detergent with warm water, and rub the stain away with a soft brush.
  
• Water Marks: Hard water tends to leave mineral deposits on the stone tile surface, resulting in stains. Hard water stains can be cleaned with a vinegar and water mixture. However, too much vinegar can harm the tiles, so use it wisely and rinse the tile with clean water afterwards.

Protecting Stone Tiles Against Harsh Weather Conditions

Weather, especially harsh rains or snow, can damage parking areas. Stone tiles from premium brands are stronger than most other options; however, it's still essential to protect them against extreme conditions.

• Rain and moisture: Heavy rain can cause moisture to stain stone tiles and make them slippery. If you encounter such an issue, apply sealant to the tiles properly to prevent water seepage.
  
• Sun exposure: Tiles start fading when they are exposed to the harsh sun for extended periods. Fortunately, many stone tiles, such as those in the Rockdeck and Basaltino collections from brands like Simpolo Tiles and Bathware, are made with materials that are not as affected by the sun.
  
• Freezing and thawing: The freeze-thaw cycle, especially in cold places, causes water to get trapped in the tiles. The tiles expand because of the freezing water and crack. Applying a sealant to prevent water seepage and ensuring proper drainage can help reduce freeze damage.

Conclusion

Stone-finish tiles that mimic the look of natural stone are aesthetically pleasing and quite durable. And unlike the natural options, they don't cost as much. So, it’s no wonder that many designers and homeowners choose stone tiles for outdoor parking spaces. With collections from premium suppliers, you can be confident that you’re choosing a product designed for high performance and lasting beauty.