If you have purchased commercially manufactured artificial rock for use in outdoor landscaping, you will find that these products have been produced with durability in mind. Concrete used to create artificial rocks is designed to a high degree of hardness and strength, which means that these rocks will not easily absorb water. Durable colorants are also used, which stand up well to outdoor elements, and a good quality sealant is generally used. If you have made your own artificial rocks, several coats of water-based concrete sealant, applied after the painting process is complete, will help to protect the surface. However, there are a few guidelines to follow when caring for artificial rock that will help to preserve them.

How to Clean Artificial Rock

Most times artificial rocks, even if they get dirty, will be easily washed clean by the rain or by a good spraying with a garden hose. However, if they become too dirty for this type of cleaning, a stiff bristle brush and a bucket of water and mild detergent can be used to clean them. Always rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of the detergent, and never use a wire brush, as this could damage the surface of the artificial rock, or ruin the paint or sealant finish. Never use harsh chemicals or cleaning solvents, because these products can break down the surface and finish of the artificial rocks, or cause surface discolorations and stains.

Proper Placement of Artificial Rocks

Although artificial rocks are quite durable, there are a few guidelines in regards to placement that can help extend the life of the rocks. Areas that are in frequent contact with de-icing salt are not good choices for these rocks, as salt can cause the degradation of the rock’s surface as well as damage the finish. Chlorine and other types of pool chemicals can also damage artificial rocks and cause staining and discoloration, so using them in swimming pools is not recommended.

Durability of Coloring

Commercially manufactured artificial rocks are generally created using concrete mixtures that are pigmented throughout. This makes the colorations very resistant to the effects of weathering. Surface coloring in the form of paints or concrete stains could wear over time from element exposure, but as a general rule these paints and stains are of a high quality variety that is not affected by water and sun, so the colors wear well over time. The color layer of artificial rocks made at home might not be as durable, but if a good quality concrete sealant is used initially, and this coating is re-applied occasionally when it begins to wear, the paint layer of handmade artificial rocks will also be durable.

Preventing Damage Due to Freezing and Thawing

Although some types of artificial rocks can crack and become damaged due to freeze and thaw cycles in colder climates, as a general rule they are more resistant to this type of damage than genuine rocks. A good application of sealant will prevent the absorption of water by the artificial rock, which will protect it against the dangers of erosion or cracking due to freezing temperatures.

Mr. Peter Heiss and Mr. Mark MacIsaac – are the preeminent designers in the Pacific Northwest and have spent a lifetime studying and emulating all of nature’s beauty. We can create pools, hot tubs, waterfalls and every other feature out of any rock you choose. At Raincity Rock & Waterscapes