Limestone is a sedimentary rock which is formed at the bottom of the ocean. It consists wholly or mainly of calcium carbonate. In its pure state it is white but it may be coloured by other materials. This calcite is sourced primarily from the shells and bones of marine organisms. The sediment that builds up preserves these organisms into fossils. Over millions of years the heat and pressure cause a chemical reaction which turns this sediment into limestone.
Limestone tile is actually quite porous and prone to scratching, staining and fracturing. It also needs to be allowed to breath, instead of being covered by synthetic sealers or urethane. We offer the right solution to protect your Limestone by using highly penetrating impregnating sealers.
The primary cause for polished stone floors becoming dull is walking on them. Prolonged foot traffic grinds and packs in dust, sand, and grit. Although the scratching that occurs is very fine, it eventually covers the majority of the surface and over time dulls the finish to the point where it loses its reflective properties. To make your stone surfaces smooth and reflective, we employ the use of high speed polishers.
Many older buildings have durable limestone flooring. This is the chalky porous type typical of most French and Spanish limestone. Etched by acids, including soft drinks. Absorbs oils and other liquids and is more easily stained than marble. Composed of Calcite and some Magnesium. Common colors are black, gray, white, yellow and brown. Has a smooth granular surface. Varies in hardness. Should be sealed with a penetrating sealer to prevent staining and reduce soiling. Should only be cleaned with neutral pH detergents. Because it is soft, it should never be cleaned at pressures above 800 PSI and then only if the grout is in good condition.
Professional regular maintenance will be required to maintain its honed or polished appearance. Limestone looks best with a honed or low/medium sheen appearance however many people insist on a high shine finish. Limestone will never have the gloss of marble or granite. Some low calcite limestone can be extremely difficult to polish and therefore vitrification would be required. Vitrification however can give the stone an unnatural plastic appearance if repeated too often.
We provide specialised cleaning solutions for Limestone tile floors & walls
To schedule your appointment or to obtain a free estimate, please Call 1300 771 201 or use our enquiry form.
- Pros
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- It is less expensive than marble and granite
- It is moisture-resistant
- Cons
- It feels cold and hard under-foot
- It requires sealing
- t reacts to acid
We provide specialised cleaning & sealing services for Limestone tile floors & walls
To schedule your appointment or to obtain a free estimate, please Call 1300 771 201 or use our enquiry form.
We cover all Ballarat suburbs and all Brown Hill area