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In the previous article Bali Glazed Lavastone: 5 Powerful Reasons It’s Perfect for Walls & Countertops we’ve covered what Bali Glazed Lavastone is, its colors and effects, and the many ways it can be used across a project. One question we get asked constantly, though, is far more practical: once it’s installed, how do you actually take care of it? The good news is that maintenance is genuinely straightforward compared to many other natural stone products, precisely because of the glazing process itself. Here are seven simple habits that keep this material looking as good as the day it was installed, whether it’s sitting in a busy kitchen, a commercial lobby, or right beside a swimming pool.
Stick to Mild, pH-Neutral Cleaners
While the sealed surface resists staining far better than raw stone, it’s still good practice to wipe up oil, wine, or acidic spills reasonably promptly rather than leaving them to sit for hours. This is especially relevant on kitchen countertops, where daily use means spills are inevitable, and where staining ingredients like turmeric, coffee, or red wine are common culprits. A quick wipe-down after cooking or entertaining goes a long way toward keeping the surface looking new for years.
Avoid Abrasive Tools and Scouring Pads
The glossy finish is durable, but it isn’t scratch-proof against everything. Steel wool, hard-bristled brushes, and abrasive scouring pads can dull the surface’s shine over repeated use, leaving a faint haze where the glaze has been worn down microscopically. A soft microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge is enough for routine cleaning, even for stubborn spots like dried food or mineral deposits. If something is particularly stuck on, soaking the area briefly with warm water before wiping is far gentler than scrubbing harder.
Check Grout Lines Periodically
On walls and larger installations, grout lines can wear faster than the tile itself, since grout is inherently more porous than the glazed surface surrounding it. Inspecting and re-grouting where needed every few years helps prevent moisture from getting underneath the tiles, particularly in wet areas like bathrooms and pool surrounds, where trapped moisture can eventually lead to loosening or cracking if left unaddressed. A quick visual check every six months or so is usually enough to catch problems early.
Rinse Off Salt and Chlorine Residue Around Pools
For pool surrounds and coastal installations, salt spray and chlorine residue can build up on the surface over time, sometimes leaving a faint white film if left unchecked for extended periods. A simple freshwater rinse every so often helps prevent this buildup, keeping bold colors like Blue Iriant or Black Manggala looking as vivid and glossy as when they were first installed. This is especially important in the months following installation, before residents settle into a regular cleaning rhythm
Protect Against Heavy Impact
While the material handles heat and everyday wear well, dropping heavy or sharp objects directly onto a countertop or feature wall edge can still chip the glaze in isolated spots, exposing the raw stone underneath. Using trivets for very heavy cookware, coasters for sharp-based glassware, and being mindful during nearby renovations or furniture moves all help avoid this kind of accidental, and largely preventable, damage.
Schedule an Occasional Professional Check
For larger installations, particularly commercial or hospitality projects with heavy daily use, it’s worth having a professional stone specialist inspect the surface every few years. They can spot early signs of grout wear, minor chipping, or sealant issues before they become bigger, more costly problems.
A Quick Note on Specifications
For reference when planning maintenance or installation, Bali Glazed Lavastone is typically available in sizes ranging from 100x100mm up to large-format 600x1200mm pieces, with thickness options between 10mm and 20mm depending on the application. Larger formats are often chosen for feature walls specifically because they reduce the number of grout lines needing upkeep, which in turn means less maintenance over the life of the installation. Thinner pieces tend to suit vertical applications like walls, while thicker options are generally recommended for countertops and other high-wear horizontal surfaces.
What’s Next in This Series
Now that you know how to keep it looking its best, our final article in this series brings everything together why sourcing directly from Balistones makes sense for your next project, and how to get started with a sample order.
Interested in sourcing genuine Bali Glazed Lavastone for your project in Australia? You can contact Alvin at (+61) 478 797 017 for more information, price and order.