Limestone Paving: The Natural Stone Choice for You?
In today’s homes, natural stone has become synonymous with luxury. Whether it’s granite countertops or limestone patio paving, this kind of material gives any home an immediate upgrade.
Limestone is a type of sedimentary rock and calcareous stone. This means that it’s primarily made of calcium carbonate. Limestone not only makes your patio enviably stylish, it also keeps you more comfortable when spending time outdoors. Many homeowners enjoy having limestone paving on their patios because of how it stays relatively cool in the hot summer sun.
This stone does very well in outdoor uses, which is why many people use it decoratively in their gardens. For example, you might like a delightful limestone path to match your limestone paved patio.
Limestone is a Great Natural Stone Choice
If you want natural stone paving for your patio, limestone is an excellent choice. Natural stone is considered a superior choice to artificial options. Natural stone will last longer than other kinds of patio paving options.
One of the best parts of having natural stone is the variety of colors you will find in it. No one stone is exactly the same. When you use natural stone instead of concrete, you get many different benefits. Some natural stones you can use for paving include granite paving, slate paving, sandstone paving, and limestone.
What Does Limestone Look Like?
You can find limestone in different finishes. You can get smooth limestone and thermal finish limestone. Thermal finish limestone has more of a natural or unfinished look. It has more of an uneven texture.
As limestone is natural, every piece of this stone is unique. You can find different colors. If you want lighter-colored patio paving, you’re in luck with limestone. That is because this stone comes in lighter shades than you will find in other options.
Some of the most common colors of limestone are buff, tan, and gray shades. Limestone often has traces of fossil and shell shapes. These impressions are considered an attractive feature of limestone.
Limestone Paving is Popular for Backyard Patios and Walkways
Limestone is popular for patios because of its durability. It lasts for many years, especially if it is sealed. Limestone paving is also available in several different colors, so it’s easy to color coordinate in your decorating.
Limestone paving is flat and smooth, meaning it’s great for walking on.
Should You Seal Limestone Paving on Your Patio?
Some homeowners choose to seal their limestone paving. You don’t have to do this, however. If you like how unsealed limestone looks, you can go without applying sealant. Be aware, though, that unfinished limestone will eventually develop a patina.
While some homeowners leave their limestone unsealed, you will probably want to put a sealer on your patio stone to keep it beautiful long-term. Find a sealer that is appropriate for limestone paving. Limestone is relatively vulnerable to damage. For example, limestone may get bleached or faded by sun exposure. If you decide not to seal your limestone, be prepared for the color to fade.
If you live in an especially rainy region or somewhere with a lot of snow during the winter, you should seal your limestone patio. The constant exposure to moisture could damage unsealed stone.
How to Take Care of Limestone Paving
Like any other stone, you must take proper care of your limestone paving. Make sure you don’t expose your limestone to anything acidic, as anything with too low a pH can permanently damage your limestone. Make sure whatever cleaner you use has a neutral pH.
After several cleanings, you may have a soap buildup on your limestone. If this happens, you can use baking soda to remove it. To do this, add some water and baking soda to a sponge. After you’ve used the sponge on your limestone, use warm water to remove the baking soda.
When it comes to cleaning your limestone paving, stick with a mild type of cleanser. Before you wash your limestone, remove any debris and dust. You can use a broom to do this. Never use any kind of metal brush, as that can cause scratches on your limestone.
Never use a power washer on your limestone. It may damage the natural stone, causing scratches. As a calcareous stone, limestone is quite porous and vulnerable to damage.
How to Use Limestone Paving for Your Patio
You will need an appropriate number of limestone pavers to pave your patio. If you want to put in the work, limestone paving installation can be a DIY project. You will have to be ready for a lot of work, though.
If you’re like most homeowners who dream of a limestone patio, you will decide to have a professional do the installation. Hiring a professional will also mean you can have the limestone professionally sealed and get everything done the right way. This is important if you want to maximize the longevity of your investment.
Invest in Your Home with Impressive Limestone
Like any other natural stone, limestone is an investment. But it’s always one well worth making. Limestone paving on your patio is the finishing touch your home has been craving.