Basalt: Resolute Infrastructure

Basalt is not expressive; it is functional. As a dense volcanic stone formed from rapidly cooled lava, it offers exceptional compressive strength and low water absorption. It is the default specification for projects where mechanical performance and durability override decorative softness.

Engineered for Traffic

Basalt is an “infrastructure stone.” It is designed to be walked on, driven over, and exposed to the elements without degradation. It is the ideal material for public plazas, urban walkways, and transportation hubs.

Stone Moods Technical Advisory: While mechanically superior, Basalt’s dark grey tone absorbs heat. It is NOT recommended for barefoot residential zones in hot climates due to thermal discomfort.

  • Durability: Extreme resistance to abrasion and environmental exposure.
  • Safety: Achieves R11 to R12 slip ratings with textured finishes.
  • Spec Sheet: SM-CM-09

Basalt: The Stone of Infrastructure

Basalt is not here to entertain you. It is here to support you. It is the silent workhorse of urban architecture, paving the squares we walk on and the cities we build. It offers no intricate veining, no dramatic color shifts—only consistent, resolute strength. When a project demands safety and longevity under constant public use, Basalt is the answer. It is the stone of infrastructure, not indulgence

Volcanic Stone | Turkey / Vietnam

1. Material Overview

Basalt is a dense volcanic stone formed from rapidly cooled lava, characterized by dark grey to charcoal tones and a very fine-grained structure.
It is valued for its exceptional compressive strength, abrasion resistance, and low water absorption.

Basalt is specified where mechanical performance and durability override decorative softness.

2. Recommended Applications

Suitable for:

  • Exterior floors and plazas

  • Public walkways and urban spaces

  • Stair treads and ramps

  • Pool surrounds (non-barefoot zones)

  • Facades and exterior wall cladding

  • Industrial and infrastructure projects

Typical use cases:

  • Public squares and streetscapes

  • Transportation hubs

  • Commercial outdoor circulation areas

  • Contemporary architecture with minimal material palette

Basalt is a functional infrastructure stone.

3. Surface Finishes

Recommended finishes:

  • Flamed – standard exterior specification

  • Bush-hammered – maximum slip resistance

  • Sandblasted – balanced texture for pedestrian areas

  • Honed – interior floors with controlled use

Finish guidance:

  • Textured finishes are mandatory for exterior walking surfaces

  • Polished finish is not recommended due to slip and glare

  • Dark color intensifies heat absorption in direct sun

4. Slip Rating (Indicative)

  • Bush-hammered: R12

  • Flamed: R11 – R12

  • Sandblasted: R11

  • Honed: R10

Suitable for high-traffic exterior environments when textured.

5. Dimensional Tolerances

  • Tiles: ±1.5 mm

  • Pavers / exterior units: ±2.0 mm

Basalt often allows consistent tolerances even in heavy-duty formats.

6. Recommended Adhesive & Installation

Adhesive:

  • High-strength cement-based adhesive

  • Classification: C2TE S1 / C2TE S2 (EN 12004)

Installation notes:

  • Full adhesive coverage required

  • Back-buttering mandatory for exterior and large formats

  • Proper sub-base preparation critical for load-bearing applications

  • Mechanical fixing recommended for facade systems

7. Maintenance & Aging Behavior

Basalt is extremely low maintenance.

Expected behavior:

  • Minimal surface wear under heavy traffic

  • High resistance to chemicals and environmental exposure

  • Stable color and texture over time

Surface may lighten slightly in high-abrasion zones, which is considered normal.

8. Not Recommended For (Critical Application Limits)

Basalt should not be specified for:

  • Barefoot pool decks in hot climates

  • Residential patios requiring thermal comfort

  • Highly decorative interior spaces

  • Projects prioritizing warmth or material softness

Its limitations are related to thermal comfort and aesthetics, not strength.

9. Specification Notes (For Project Documents)

  • Specify textured finish for all exterior walking surfaces

  • Consider heat absorption in sun-exposed areas

  • Define load-bearing requirements and sub-base design

  • Use honed finish only for controlled interior applications

10. Stone Moods Professional Note

Basalt is not expressive.
It is resolute.

When the project demands longevity, safety, and resistance under constant use, basalt delivers with minimal compromise.
It is the stone of infrastructure, not indulgence.

Stone Moods
Independent Editorial · Performance-Driven
Written for architects, designers, and serious buyers.

Download Technical Spec Sheet (PDF)

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