Stains on blue stone baseboards: causes and solutions
Stains on blue stone baseboards are more common than thought, especially when installed with adhesive mortar. These discolorations are not only aesthetically disruptive, but can also indicate a less than optimal installation. In this article you will discover the main causes of staining and how to prevent or repair them.
What are the causes of stains on baseboards?
Façade skirting made of bluestone that is bonded non-full-surface often shows stains where the bonding mortar was applied.
When moisture soaks into the stone through the substrate or adhesive, uneven discoloration occurs. These spots are usually clearly visible in wet weather, less visible in dry weather and are mainly located at the glue points.
Why do stains occur when installed with adhesive mortar?
When installed with adhesive mortar dots (spot bonding), there is no homogeneous bond between the wall skirting and the substrate. This allows moisture to accumulate between wall and stone, differences in drying occur and discoloration becomes visible on the surface.
Bluestone is a natural material that reacts sensitively to variations in moisture, which intensifies this staining.
How can you prevent staining?
To avoid staining, correct placement is essential.
Ensure full-flat bonding so that adhesion is even over the entire surface. In addition, use an adhesive specifically suitable for natural stone. It is also important that the substrate is provided with the necessary waterproofing measures to avoid rising damp.
In fact, in many cases, mechanical fastening is the best solution, as this method significantly reduces the risk of moisture problems.
How do you repair discolored baseboards?
When staining is already present, there are some possible solutions. One is to try to homogeneously darken the entire surface with appropriate products, such as silicone oil or color thinners.
In this regard, it is important to test on a small area first. Keep in mind that a completely even result cannot always be guaranteed.
Practical advice
Do you doubt the proper placement of blue stone plinths? Correct placement prevents problems and ensures a durable and aesthetic result.
Feel free to contact us for customized advice.
Source
Buildwise - Infofiche 84
https://www.buildwise.be/nl/publicaties/infofiches/84/infofiche-84
