Limestone Applications and Finishes

Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed principally of calcium carbonate (calcite) or the double carbonate of calcium and magnesium (dolomite). It is commonly composed of tiny fossils, shell fragments and other fossilized debris.

Limestone is usually gray, but it may also be white, yellow or brown. It is a soft rock and is easily scratched. It will effervesce readily in any common acid.

The density of limestone depends on its porosity, which varies from 0.1% for the densest limestone to 40% for chalk. The density correspondingly ranges from 1.5 to 2.7 g/cm³. Although relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 2 to 4, dense limestone can have a crushing strength of up to 180 MPa.

In terms of water absorption, measured absorption typically ranges from less than a percent for granites and crystalline rocks up to 10-12 percent for the more porous sedimentary rocks (like sandstones and limestones). For sandstones and limestones, an absorption of less than 5 percent is preferable, and in most cases, the lower the better.

The applications of limestone:

Limestone, used extensively for interior and exterior cladding, is a highly valued stone by architects for traditional and contemporary projects. The construction industry uses limestone for walls and floors on buildings. This natural stone has a high strength, durability and resistance to corrosion. The non-slip and heat-resistant properties are highly valued. In fact, the fine grains of limestone rock allow density so it can last for centuries. It is used for both residential and commercial applications.

Limestone tiles are used for several applications such as facades, interior and exterior walls, interior and exterior floorings, gardens, swimming pools, road surfaces and pavements. This stone can be installed in kitchens, bathrooms or fireplaces. It can be produced in any size. The standard formats are 60x30cm and 60x40cm with a thickness from 1.5 to 3cm. Limestone panels of 60 x 20 cm and a thickness of 2.5-4 cm can be used in interior and exterior wall cladding.

The appropriate finish for limestone:

This natural material adds beauty to many buildings because it is offered in a wide range of finishes such as polished or brushed. The finish applied to the stone can change the color, creating deeper or richer tones. It can also complement other building materials and it can be used for other highly decorative applications. 

A limestone finish makes the limestone surface smooth, anti-slippery, and fit for wearing the load of traffic. From flamed to polished and from honed to brushing, many finishes make limestone tiles and countertops fit for various applications. While marbles and granites are often ground and polished to a high gloss, many types of limestone are too soft for this process. In most cases limestone will be honed or will be ground to a flat or matte finish.