Limestone Countertops

Limestone Countertops with its natural characteristics adds a  rustic appeal to the area where it is installed. Embedded fossils add to its beauty and make it even more interesting.

Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of calcite. Some are pure calcite, while others are mixed with other minerals, sand and silt. It is formed from the shells and fossils of aquatic organisms and comes in a variety of natural shades and patterns. It is not a particularly hard stone and can be corroded by acidic liquids, even water.Many caves are actually formed from the dissolution of limestone formations.

Although limestone is not as strong as other stones, it is still durable and long-lasting and used in building and landscape applications. It is readily available in the form of slabs or tiles. Limestone can withstand exposure to the elements, making it very useful in humid regions. Its only enemy is acid rain. It is commonly used as flooring and countertops in both indoors and outdoors. Many landmarks around the world are actually made of limestone. It is also widely quarried to be used for road ballast. When crushed, it is used as the lime component for cement and other chemical uses. In its powdered form, it can also neutralize acidity in soil and water.

Natural Stone lovers, understand the beauty and value of what nature has worked for years to created and we can bring into our homes as Limestone Countertops, tile floors and many other types of products that can have added sophistication when made out of Limestone.

  LIMESTONE COUNTERTOPS CARE AND MAINTENANCE

 Because of the natural characteristics of limestone, it comes in varying degrees of strength, density, ‘porosity’ and texture. That is why it is very important to have your limestone flooring or countertop sealed right away after installation. Use a high-quality of impregnating  sealer  that can fill up the gaps to prevent stains and corrosion. Depending on the type of sealer used you it re-sealed after every few years to protect it as well as maintain its appearance. When sealed with a proper limestone sealer, your limestone countertops and flooring also become easy to maintain and can last a lifetime. Just sweep or wipe it clean. When it is soiled, just clean it with warm water and a mild detergent or a ph neutral cleaner specifically made for natural stones.

TO REMOVE STAINS

If you accidentally stain it, you can use oxygen bleach to remove the stain. Unlike chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach is gentle on the stone. Some suggest the use of a poultice made with hydrogen peroxide mixed with distilled water, but this may cause corrosion unless mixed with some limestone fragments.

Because limestone is made up of calcite, it can be etched and damaged by any acidic substances, such as vinegar, lemon or those found in some cleaning agents. Even foods that are mildly acidic, such as tomatoes, can cause etching if left on the stone too long. Be sure to wipe off any substances and spills right away. Also clean limestone flooring from grits that may scratch it.

Limestone is very heavy making it rather expensive to manufacture and install and it is not recommended  for do-it-yourself projects. Because of its heaviness, installing it needs precision and is best left to the experts. Otherwise, repairs may cost you even more.

Limestone Counter tops as well as tile flooring having been used  for centuries. Its timeless beauty and rustic appeal still does not fail to charm to this day.