How to remove a boiled linseed oil stain from natural stone?
Estimated Reading Time: 1 MinutesQ. How can I remove a boiled linseed oil stain from natural stone?
A. Boiled linseed oil can leave a dark, sticky, and persistent stain on natural stone that doesn’t respond to simple cleaning. It penetrates the pores of stone and resists water-based cleaners.
Many homeowners inadvertently damage the surface of their stone while attempting to remove stains by using standard household cleaners or scrubbing aggressively. The safest and most effective approach to start with is to thoroughly clean the stained area with cold water and a mild detergent or stone soap. Next, apply a commercial degreaser to the stained area and let sit for several minutes. Remove excess and rinse with clean, clear water.
Apply a poultice is the stain remains. A poultice draws the stain out of the stone over time. For detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to mix and apply a poultice correctly, check out our free Stain Management App. Your chemical poultice ingredient will be a commercial degreaser. For older or heavier stains, multiple poultice applications will be necessary.
Consult a professional stone restoration contractor if the stain is extensive, very dark, or in a high-visibility area. They can test the stone and utilize the most appropriate stain removal methods while minimizing any risk of surface damage. To find a vetted PRO in your area, visit www.surfacecarepros.com and click on Find a PRO.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Fred Hueston is the Chief Technical Director at SurfaceCarePROS.com and Director at StoneForensics.com. He is also the author of Stone and Tile Restoration: The Manual, a comprehensive online manual for stone and tile restoration contractors. [Learn more about Fred.]