Basalt FAQ - Stone Care Questions
Basalt - Frequently Asked Questions
7 questions about caring for basalt
How long should I leave Anti-Slip on the surface?
Contact time is critical and varies by surface type: Marble/limestone/calcareous stone: 5-8 minutes maximum (acid-sensitive). Granite/basalt/slate: 10-15 minutes (acid-resistant). Porcelain/ceramic tiles: 10-15 minutes. Always test on a small area first to check the effect. Shorter time = less texture change, less anti-slip effect. Longer time = more texture change, more anti-slip effect. Rinse very thoroughly after the contact time.
Recommended: Lithofin Anti-Slip
How do I remove rust stains from stone?
Use Lithofin Rust-EX - apply undiluted directly on the rust stain. Leave 5-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water. On acid-sensitive stone (marble, limestone): use shorter contact time (3-5 minutes) and rinse immediately. On granite/slate/basalt: can leave longer. Repeat for stubborn stains. Important: identify and remove the rust source (metal furniture leg, nail, steel wool fragment) or the stain will recur.
Recommended: Lithofin Rust-EX
How do I remove limescale from my bathroom tiles?
On ceramic/porcelain tiles: Lithofin KF Ceramic-Clean is perfect - apply, leave 5-10 minutes, scrub, rinse. Safe and very effective. On granite/slate/basalt: KF Ceramic-Clean or MN Builders' Clean diluted - these stones are acid-resistant. On marble/limestone: DO NOT use acid-based limescale removers! Use Lithofin MN Power-Clean (alkaline) with gentle scrubbing. For heavy limescale on marble: carefully use a plastic scraper, then MN Power-Clean. Prevention: squeegee after showering.
Recommended: Lithofin KF Ceramic-Clean, Lithofin MN Builders' Clean, Lithofin MN Power-Clean
Can I use a pressure washer on my stone?
Yes, but with caution. Keep minimum 30cm distance from the surface. Use a fan nozzle, not a point nozzle. Soft stone (sandstone, limestone, cotto) is more vulnerable - use lower pressure (max 100 bar). Hard stone (granite, basalt, slate) can tolerate higher pressure. Never aim at joints at close range - this can wash out joint sand/mortar. Never pressure wash polished stone (will damage the polish). Chemical pre-treatment with ALGEX or Outdoor Cleaner reduces the need for high pressure.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Outdoor Cleaner, Lithofin ALGEX, Lithofin MN Easy-Clean
How should I care for basalt stone?
Basalt is one of the easiest stones to care for. It is extremely hard (6-7 Mohs), very dense, and acid-resistant. You can safely use both acidic and alkaline cleaners. Daily care: MN Wash & Clean. Deep cleaning: MN Power-Clean or even CEMENT-AWAY for stubborn deposits. Sealing: MN Basic Protection is sufficient (basalt is so dense it needs minimal sealing). The main consideration: basalt's dark colour can show white efflorescence more visibly if moisture is present.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Wash & Clean, Lithofin MN Basic Protection
How do I care for stone around a swimming pool?
Pool surrounds face chlorinated water, UV exposure, and safety concerns. 1) Choose acid-resistant stone if possible (granite, basalt, slate) - chlorinated water is slightly acidic. 2) Apply MN Stain-Stop for maximum protection. 3) Apply Anti-Slip on smooth surfaces - essential for pool safety. 4) Rinse pool chemicals off the stone regularly. 5) Annual ALGEX treatment for biological growth. 6) Re-seal every 1-2 years (chlorine accelerates sealer breakdown). For marble pool surrounds: extra care needed - rinse chlorinated water off frequently.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Stain-Stop, Lithofin Anti-Slip, Lithofin ALGEX
What maintenance is required for basalt paving?
Basalt paving requires regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water to prevent dirt accumulation. For added protection, apply Lithofin MN Stain-Stop to resist stains and enhance the stone's natural color. Resealing every few years is recommended for optimal care.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Stain-Stop