Selters Basalt: the complete guide

History and origin

Basalt is an extrusive rock formed by the cooling of lava flows, and in Germany it has been used for centuries for road paving, kerbs and masonry. Selters Basalt takes its name from the German town of Selters, and central Germany has a long tradition of quarrying volcanic stones. Today it is also offered in slabs and fabricated pieces for contemporary construction. Marmi di Carrara supplies it on request.

Look and veining

The background is dark grey with a fine, very homogeneous grain, with possible small pores or barely visible tiny crystals. Differences between slabs are generally limited, which makes it suitable for large, continuous surfaces. Honing darkens and evens out the tone, while flaming, bush-hammering and brushing lighten it slightly and make it slip-resistant.

Technical properties (indicative)

Recommended uses

It is suitable for outdoor paving, stairs, thresholds, façade cladding, street furniture and kitchen worktops. Indoors it works well for high-traffic floors and bathrooms; the polished finish should be avoided only where grip is needed on wet surfaces.

Care and maintenance

A neutral detergent with water is enough: basalt is unaffected by household acids and frost. A stain-proofing treatment is useful above all on kitchen worktops with textured finishes, which retain oils and dirt more easily.

Pairings

• stainless steel and burnished iron
• natural or thermally modified oak
• white plaster and light exposed concrete

FAQ