Maintaining a Sandstone Fireplace Hearth: A Step-by-Step Cleaning Approach
Sandstone, a porous and long-lasting stone formed from sand and mineral deposits, is known for its smooth surface and varied hues. A hearth made of this material can bring a natural touch to a home, particularly in southwestern-style interiors. Because fireplace masonry accumulates dirt, ash, and soot during use, periodic cleaning helps preserve both its look and hygiene. Hearths that have not been sealed tend to soak up grime faster and may need more frequent attention.
By Elliot Walker7 steps
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock common through southwestern regions of the United States.
Sandstone is a porous, resilient rock made up of sand and assorted mineral deposits, recognizable by its smooth feel and contrasting hues. A fireplace hearth built from sandstone can introduce a natural element into any residence, and it pairs especially well with southwest decor. As with any fireplace masonry, a sandstone hearth gathers dirt, ash, and soot each time it is used. Cleaning it on a regular schedule helps keep up its appearance and overall tidiness. If a sandstone hearth has not been sealed, it may call for more frequent cleaning since it takes in grime more rapidly.
Step 1
Place plastic drop cloths over the floor around the sandstone hearth. Wear rubber gloves to shield your hands from the chemicals present in the trisodium-phosphate cleaner.
Step 2
Mix the trisodium phosphate solution. In one pail, add 2 oz. of trisodium-phosphate cleaner to 1 gallon of hot water.
Step 3
Put clean water in a second pail to use for rinsing the hearth.
Step 4
Using a soft-bristled brush, scrub the diluted trisodium-phosphate solution onto a 2-by-2-foot area of sandstone. Remove all grime, soot, and ash from that section.
Step 5
Dip a cloth into the pail of water. Rinse the cleaned 2-by-2-foot area by wiping it with the soaked cloth.
Step 6
Continue cleaning the remaining soiled 2-by-2-foot sections of sandstone until the whole hearth is free of spots. Work on just one 2-by-2-foot section at a time, and be sure to rinse each section after scrubbing it.
Step 7
Allow the sandstone hearth to dry fully in the air.
