Laser Cleaning Drastically Improves Stone Surfaces

Baker’s utilizes laser cleaning on stairs in San Francisco plaza

Outdoor stone and concrete surfaces experience extreme wear and tear. In addition to foot and bicycle traffic, these surfaces are also subject to extreme weather conditions. San Francisco can see many different weather patterns including rain, sleet, hail, wind, and sun. While these materials are built to withstand extreme weather and traffic, the surfaces eventually wear out and need to be cleaned, re-surfaced, or replaced. 

Baker’s Floor and Surface specializes in updating and improving outdoor stone surfaces. We recently demonstrated the effectiveness of our laser cleaning on stone stairs at an outdoor plaza in San Francisco. For this project, we lasered two exterior steps outside the same plaza. Additionally, we wanted to show the difference between a step that was just lasered and one that was lasered and sealed.  The result speaks for itself. (see “after” pictures)

Laser cleaning is used for a number of reasons. It might be used for surface roughening. In this case, we engrave tiny craters or thin tracks on stone to improve slip resistance. Clients choose this process when they want to improve the safety of their property and help eliminate trip and fall hazards. Laser cleaning is also used for grinding flat concrete floors, loosening old floor coatings such as paint and epoxy, and creating a smooth, even surface. By using laser cleaning, we can eliminate the cost of replacing stone and concrete that’s still in good condition. 

After the initial laser process, many of our customers choose to seal the stone. This step protects it from surface damage, corrosion, and staining. It can also save our customers time and money in the long run. Sealing a surface blocks water from penetrating the surface, helps keep out salt, chemicals, dirt, and plant growth, and extends the life of the stone. 

If you’re interested in learning more about our stone laser and sealing services, give Baker’s a call. We’d love to answer your questions and help you get started.