What Is Flamed (Thermal-Finish) Granite? Outdoor Use and Maintenance

In short: Most of the rough, slightly lighter-toned granite you see at pool edges, hotel entrances and walkways in residential complexes is flamed (thermal-finished) granite.

This surface is slip-resistant and durable outdoors. In this article, we explain what flamed granite is, where it is used and how to maintain it.

How Is It Made?

A very high-temperature flame is applied to the surface of the granite slab. Because the minerals inside the granite expand at different rates, a thin layer on the surface cracks and flakes off. What remains is a rough surface with exposed crystals.

Properties

The flaming process roughens the surface while preserving the hardness of the granite; this changes the stone's appearance and the grip underfoot.

• Slip-resistant: The rough surface created by the flame provides more contact points for the foot, so grip remains good even when wet.
• Color: It looks lighter and paler than the polished version; because the rough surface scatters light instead of reflecting it like a glossy surface, the tones become matte.
• Texture: The surface is rough and slightly wavy; because the crystals are exposed, the grainy structure of the stone can be felt by hand.
• Durability: Since the process removes only a thin surface layer, the hardness of the granite is preserved; it is suitable for outdoor use against sun, sand and rain.

Where Is It Used?

Flamed granite is preferred in wet, high-traffic outdoor areas where both slip resistance and durability are required.

• Pool decks and edges: Around pools where people walk barefoot and the ground is constantly wet, the rough surface reduces the risk of slipping, and it also withstands pool water.
• Outdoor stairs and steps: On steps that get wet from rain and morning humidity, polished stone becomes dangerous; the flamed surface provides safer grip when stepping.
• Garden and residential complex walkways: On paths constantly exposed to sun, rain and irrigation water, flamed granite retains its color and surface for a long time.
• Hotel and building entrances: At entrances, where heavy foot traffic and rainwater are met first, it resists wear and also reduces slipping.
• Parking lot pedestrian paths: On pedestrian paths close to vehicle traffic, hard granite resists breakage and wear, and the rough surface stays safe when wet.

Maintenance and Cleaning

A rough surface holds dirt more easily than a polished one.

• Regular sweeping: Sand and leaves easily settle into the recesses of the rough surface; regular sweeping prevents buildup and keeps leaves from leaving stains.
• Pressure washing: Periodic pressure washing removes dirt, algae and stains lodged between the crystals; the pressure and distance are adjusted so as not to damage the joints.
• Brush machine: On large areas, a brush machine reaches into the recesses of the rough surface more deeply and evenly than manual cleaning.
• Neutral or stone-safe cleaners: Use neutral or stone-safe cleaners; harsh acidic products can damage the joints and the softer materials around them.

Stains

On flamed granite, stains often vary depending on where it is used; knowing the cause makes it easier to choose the right cleaning method.

• Grease and food stains: These appear at poolside bars and around barbecues; they are removed with a suitable cleaner, and if they have penetrated deeply, a poultice is applied to draw them out of the stone.
• Algae and black stains: These form in shaded and damp areas where the surface stays wet for a long time; along with cleaning, the cause of water accumulation should also be eliminated.
• Rust: Water running off iron furniture and planters leaves orange-brown marks on the stone; separate products are needed for rust, and if the source is not removed, the mark returns.
• Chlorine and pool water residues: As splashed pool water evaporates, whitish lime and salt marks remain on the surface; regular rinsing with fresh water reduces the buildup.

Protection

Flamed granite is generally a low-absorption stone, but because its surface is rough, dirt, grease and algae settle more easily into the pores and between the crystals. A breathable sealer suitable for outdoor use that does not reduce slip resistance slows this buildup and makes cleaning easier. Water- and oil-repellent sealers are especially recommended for poolside bars, barbecue areas and terraces where food is served. Before sealing, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned and completely dry.

Comparison of Granite Surface Types

Caution When Pressure Washing

Flamed granite is resistant to pressure washing, but you still need to work with the right pressure and distance. Very high pressure and a narrow nozzle can empty the joints and damage softer surrounding materials. If a suitable cleaner is applied to oily and algae-covered areas before washing and left to sit for a while, better results can be achieved at low pressure. The wash water should not be directed into the pool or onto garden plants.

Flamed Granite in Alanya

Flamed granite is very common around hotel pools, on residential complex walkways and at building entrances in Alanya. On these heavily used surfaces, the buildup of oil, algae and dirt gradually darkens the color and spoils the appearance. With deep cleaning, stain treatment and impregnation suited to outdoor use, we restore flamed granite's light, clean look; for slippery areas where polished granite has been used, we recommend anti-slip solutions such as brushing.