Limestone Maintenance Services
Limestone can be challenging to maintain if a proper maintenance program is not established from the time of installation. While limestone is often installed in a honed or matte finish and does not show scratches as readily as polished marble, it is still highly sensitive to wear, staining, and chemical damage if not cared for correctly.
Even honed limestone can quickly lose its appearance if basic preventative measures, such as barrier matting at entrances, are not used. One of the most critical factors in limestone maintenance is its susceptibility to staining. Limestone is composed largely of calcite, which makes it vulnerable to acid exposure from spilled food and beverages. In addition, its relatively high porosity allows oils and liquids to penetrate the surface if the stone is not properly sealed with a penetrating sealer.
Regular Limestone Maintenance
All natural stone benefits from a well planned maintenance schedule. Proper routine care helps preserve the stone’s appearance and can significantly delay the need for more extensive restoration work.
Daily maintenance should include dry dust mopping using a clean microfiber or rayon mop to remove abrasive debris. Regular damp mopping is also necessary and should be performed using a high quality stone safe cleaner, alternated with clean water. It is important to avoid soap buildup, as residue can dull the surface and attract dirt.
Spills should always be addressed promptly to prevent staining or etching. Acid based household cleaners should never be used on limestone, as they can damage the surface on contact. The same applies to acidic foods and drinks, which can cause etch marks if left on the stone for too long.
Professional Limestone Maintenance
In addition to routine cleaning, periodic professional maintenance is required to maintain limestone’s appearance over time. Most limestone surfaces look best with a honed or low to medium sheen finish, which preserves the natural character of the stone. While some clients request a high gloss finish, not all limestone types are suitable for polishing due to variations in calcite content.
Certain low calcite limestones can be extremely difficult to polish to a consistent shine. In these cases, vitrification may be used; however, this method is typically a short term solution and, if applied repeatedly, can result in an unnatural or plastic looking surface. For this reason, vitrification should be used selectively and only when appropriate.
At NYC Marble Care, we evaluate the stone type, finish, usage, and expectations before recommending a maintenance approach. Our goal is to preserve the stone’s integrity while maintaining a clean, uniform appearance that fits the space.
Speak With Our Limestone Maintenance Experts
NYC Marble Care provides professional limestone maintenance services tailored to both residential and commercial environments. Whether your limestone is newly installed or showing signs of wear, we develop maintenance plans designed to extend the life of the stone and reduce the need for major restoration.
If you are located in New York City, New Jersey, or surrounding areas, call 888-318-8990 or contact us to schedule a consultation.