Sandstone FAQ - Stone Care Questions
Sandstone - Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions about caring for sandstone
How much product do I need for my project?
Coverage varies by product and stone porosity. Typical ranges: Cleaners (diluted): 50-200 m²/L. Intensive cleaners (diluted): 5-20 m²/L. Impregnators: 5-30 m²/L (very porous stone like sandstone uses more, dense granite uses less). Apply two coats on very porous stone. As a rule of thumb: for a 20m² room, you typically need 1L of impregnator and 0.5L of concentrated cleaner.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Power-Clean, Lithofin KF Intensive Cleaner, Lithofin TC Impregnator, Lithofin MN Stain-Stop
How important is it to seal sandstone?
Extremely important. Sandstone is one of the most porous natural stones - it absorbs water and stains very quickly. Unsealed sandstone outdoors will absorb water, leading to frost damage in winter and rapid biological growth. Unsealed sandstone indoors will stain easily from any liquid. Apply Lithofin MN Stain-Stop generously - two coats are recommended because sandstone is so absorbent. Re-seal outdoor sandstone every 2-3 years.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Stain-Stop
Should I seal stone before or after grouting?
After grouting is standard practice - seal once the grout has cured. However, pre-sealing before grouting can be beneficial for very porous stone (sandstone, some limestone) to prevent grout from staining the stone surface. If pre-sealing: apply one light coat of MN Stain-Stop, allow to cure 24h, then grout. After grouting and curing, clean cement haze, then apply the full sealing treatment. Note: pre-sealing adds cost and time, so it is mainly recommended for very porous or light-coloured stone.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Stain-Stop
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 do I protect outdoor stone from frost damage?
Frost damages stone when water inside the pores freezes and expands. Prevention: 1) Seal with a breathable impregnator (MN Stain-Stop or MN Basic Protection) - this prevents water from entering while allowing moisture to escape. 2) Ensure proper drainage slope (min 1-2%) so water doesn't pool. 3) Keep stone free of leaves and debris that trap moisture. 4) Re-seal before winter. Most susceptible: sandstone, limestone, cotto. Most resistant: granite, basalt, slate. New concrete must cure 28 days before sealing.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Stain-Stop, Lithofin MN Basic Protection
How can I prepare my outdoor stone for winter?
To prepare your outdoor stone for winter, it's essential to clean the surface thoroughly and apply a protective sealant. Lithofin MN Stain-Stop is ideal for this purpose, as it provides a water-repellent barrier against frost damage. Additionally, ensure that any cracks are filled to prevent water ingress, which can freeze and expand, causing further damage.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Stain-Stop
When is the best time to seal my stone?
The best time to seal your stone is when temperatures are between 10°C and 25°C. This ensures optimal adhesion and curing of the sealant. Lithofin MN Stain-Stop is recommended for sealing, as it provides long-lasting protection. Avoid sealing during extreme temperatures or rain to ensure the best results.
Recommended: Lithofin MN Stain-Stop
What is a seasonal maintenance calendar for my terrace?
A seasonal maintenance calendar for your terrace should include cleaning in spring with Lithofin Outdoor Cleaner, sealing in early summer with Lithofin MN Stain-Stop, and regular checks for algae and moss in autumn. In winter, ensure that the terrace is free of debris and snow to prevent frost damage. Consistent maintenance will prolong the life of your stone.
Recommended: Lithofin Outdoor Cleaner, Lithofin MN Stain-Stop