Everything You Need to Know About
Limestone
If you’re searching for a versatile natural stone for your next project within your home, then
limestone might be the perfect one for you. Limestone is a beautiful natural stone that has been
popular in building and design for many years. Its versatility and durability mean it can be used
for a range of projects inside and outside of your home.
Composition and Characteristics
Limestone is a sedimentary rock made up of mostly calcium carbonate or, at times, calcium and magnesium. It is formed over millions of years from built-up sediment including tiny fossils, shell fragments and other fossilised debris. Its composition is part of the appeal as these fossilised inclusions are often visible to the naked eye.
It is a beautiful natural stone with great aesthetic qualities like texture and a diverse range of soft colours. The fossils and inclusions within some limestone impact the texture of the stone, which is generally granular, but in some instances, the granules can be microscopic. These differences change from quarry to quarry and depend on the sediment and other factors.
Limestone comes in a variety of colours, such as grey, white, yellow or brown, meaning there are colour options for those wanting this stone in their home. Some of the most popular colours selected are primarily off-white and yellow colour variations, which we mine from quarries in Australia.
Applications in Stone Masonry
Limestone is a more porous stone, meaning it is softer than marble or granite. For this reason, it is a popular choice for stone masonry projects as it is easier to shape, cut and carve designs into.
While it can be used for just about anything inside or outside of the home, some of the more popular uses of limestone in buildings are building facades, columns and pillars, architectural detailing, flooring, fireplaces and pool paving.
Sustainability
Limestone deposits are abundant all over the world, making this stone a widely available resource. It isn’t a hard-to-source material and can be locally sourced, which saves on carbon emissions.
In addition to this, limestone is incredibly durable with life-long longevity. So you won’t need to change it for many years to come. Limestone has been used for centuries, even dating back to ancient times, with historic sites such as the Pyramids of Giza being made of limestone. This shows just how durable this stone is.
Maintenance and Care
When it comes to maintenance and care, there are some things that can be done to ensure you keep your limestone looking its absolute best.
Regular sealing with a high-quality sealer is recommended to avoid discolouration and staining, as well as cleaning the limestone inside the home with a mild detergent to remove dirt and keep it clean.
We advise avoiding abrasive or harsh chemicals on the stone that may damage it. Limestone can be a stunning addition to your home. It’s very durable when installed correctly, creating a naturally beautiful feature that you can admire for many years to come.
If you’re considering adding limestone to your home, get in touch today for a complimentary consultation with one of our experts.
