How to Take Care of Limestone Countertops
Caring for Your Limestone Countertops
Limestone is a beautiful option for countertops, whether in your kitchen, bathrooms, or elsewhere! Much like other stone options, limestone countertops do require maintenance on a daily, monthly, and yearly basis. Limestone is porous and often lighter in color than other stone options, which can make stains and marks stand out a bit more. Luckily, it’s easy to prevent and treat any discolorations of your limestone countertops! Read on to see how to seal, clean, and treat your limestone.
Benefits of Limestone Countertops
There are many benefits to getting limestone countertops, and they’re a great option for any homeowner seeking a simple yet stunning stone. Limestone countertops are a versatile option that comes in many different colors and patterns. Though known for being a softer stone, Impression’s limestone is quarried from Italy and France – both of which have more dense limestone. This means that our natural limestone slabs are more durable, and just as strong as granite! Limestone is also resistant to both heat and humidity, which makes it the ideal material for countertops in kitchens and bathrooms.
Caring for Limestone Countertops: Sealing
Limestone is a natural stone that is porous, meaning there are small holes that need to be sealed to prevent liquids or dirt from settling inside your countertops. Your countertops should always be professionally sealed when first installed, and then sealed at least every year after that to prevent staining, discoloration, and dirt build-up.
Caring for Limestone Countertops: Regular Cleaning
In addition to sealing, limestone countertops should be cleaned regularly, but don’t use traditional kitchen cleaners! You’ll need to purchase a cleaner specific to your countertops, typically one with a neutral pH. You can even get a weekly or monthly cleaner that contains sealing properties for more regular maintenance. When cleaning, be sure to use a soft rag or towel. Sponges and other harsh cleaning tools can scratch your counters!
Caring for Limestone Countertops: Removing Scratches
Limestone can be known for scratching easily. You’ll want to make sure to always use cutting boards and place sharp utensils on dish mats or trivets. If you stumble upon an accidental scratch on your limestone, you can lightly buff out smaller ones with fine steel wool. If necessary, you can buff it while using a polishing compound. Serious scratches should get professional care.
Caring for Limestone Countertops: Removing Stains
The best way to treat limestone stains is to never encounter them! Make sure to wipe up spills immediately, especially those from acidic liquids like juice from citrus fruits or coffee and tea. Limestone can also be burned or scorched from heat, like when hot pans are removed from the oven and set on the counter without a potholder or trivet underneath. In the event that you do get a stain, you can create a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and flour until it forms a paste, also called a poultice. Apply this mixture to any stains, allow to sit if necessary, and then wipe up! Some stains may require consistent treatment, but most will fade with time.
Impression’s High-Quality Limestone Countertops
Impression puts quality first, and you can be sure you’re always receiving top-tier limestone when you choose our hand-crafted custom home pieces. With globally-sourced limestone specifically chosen for its strength and aesthetics, our limestone will stand out in any home. To get started on installing limestone countertops – or any of our other custom home features like fountains, flooring, and more – contact us today on our website!
