Limestone - What You Need To Know
The earliest forms of architecture were constructed using limestone from the pyramids of Giza to the Parthenon in Athens. Today, limestone is used in landscapes to create that antique or old – world look. Limestone is a great choice for patios, outdoor pavers, terraces and great when used as indoor floor tiles. It comes in different colors like blue, green, gray, tan, white, pinkish white, etc.. depending where it was quarried.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock and a calciferous stone. It has a grainy appearance and is quarried around the world. It is similar to travertine except that limestone has been hardened through time and tectonic action which makes it a better and stronger material to use as a flooring. Most often, it keeps its striation forms and tends to look like wood. Because of its durability and old – world stone look, it is used for high end building projects.
Limestone floors offer excellent comfort. It has the ability to stand up to wear and possesses a range of color variations that can match any style. If you’re looking for that old – world stone look, limestone is a classic flooring choice that can easily add charm to most types of home decor. It can be cut in large format, plank even in geometric shapes increasing its overall design versatility. If you’re planning to install a new tile flooring, limestone is something you might want to consider.
What makes limestone a great choice is its wide range of colors and textures. It is the type of stone that can deflect heat and stay cool on bare feet. It is also very useful in warm weathers and as a paver around pools. It is exceptionally durable and long lasting. Limestone can be kinda costly but it will provide you with many many good years of service. Limestone is sensitive to acids and will get damaged. Totally avoid acidic cleaners, bleaching products, chlorine and all other harsh chemicals as they can etch, erode and ruin the surface.
Limestone is often associated with creamy white tones though it is also available in grays, greens and blues which rivals the bluestone. It is best to have it in a honed finish having it looking natural. Due to its porous and highly absorptive nature, it is best to have the surface sealed well using a reputable stone penetrating sealer. Ask our stone care consultants on the best methods to clean and seal limestone surfaces.
As mentioned, limestone is sensitive to acidic materials. Avoid placing fruit trees next to limestone pavers because the falling fruit might etch and erode your stone. As far as cleaning is concerned, use only approved cleaning products that you can occasionally scrub with. We recommend these two products:
General all purpose limestone surface cleaning product. Dilute, apply, scrub & rinse. Full instructions provided.
2. Lithofin MN Outdoor-Cleaner
For spotless cleaning of stubborn green and dark deposits caused by plant life. Also great with removing dark mold.
Washing limestone surfaces with intense pressure in not advisable as it may damage the stone’s surface. It is advisable after a big clean up, to have the surfaces re-sealed to preserve the great aesthetics that limestone surfaces provide while protecting it from absorbing stains.
With over 20 years of collective experience in the natural stone industry, Stone Doctor Australia offers you free consultation. Should you need any assistance in caring and advice on maintaining your limestone floor surfaces or if you have any questions in regards to restoring & sealing these surfaces, feel free to call us at 03-9429-1223 or email us at admin@stonedoctor.com.au.
