When it comes to maintenance, as limestone fireplace users are aware, it can be a slightly more demanding than other types of natural stone fireplaces. This is due to limestone being somewhat softer and slightly porous than various other natural stones such as granite.
And so, if you are looking at purchasing a limestone fireplace, or even already have one, let’s check out some simple maintenance tips. Easy peasy 1-2-3:
- Being Careful
Routine cleaning (just like us humans!) is vital for limestone, although you must use the right type of cleaners because the stone can easily be scratched. So, cleaners, beware and on the alert for:
- Wax or Spray Polishes will cause discoloration of limestone, creating difficult to remove blemishes.
- Any sort of kitchen or bathroom cleaning products, even those mild solutions will chemically react with limestone and sully it.
- Paper towels will scratch the limestone’s beautiful surface and the chances of this occurring will increase should your fireplace be unpolished or unfinished limestone.
- Steel Wool is definitely a no-no and seriously not recommended. Even with very soft scrubbing, steel wool will spoil the stone’s lovely surface. For stubborn stains, use soft toothbrushes or cotton.
- Application of Limestone Sealer Treatment
The fireplace surface and limestone fire surround in Moreton-in-Marsh, will require periodic sealing to make sure that soot or smoke from the fireplace does not impact upon them. In the case of like limestone, it will need a stronger sealer. If soot is an issue, it is better to select an impregnating sealer. This is great for limestone as it penetrates deeper and forms a wonderful protective layering that will not let any debris, including soot, to get entrenched. For the limestone mantel, you can make good use of a topical sealer. This less invasive type of sealer is perfect for use on mantels due to mantel surfaces being further away from the smoke and soot.
- Careful Removal of Dust and Debris
Always dust fireplace down prior to cleaning it with any solution. Removing any dust or debris before making the surface wet is crucial because such particles can get embedded into the limestone surface when cleaning with fluids. Try using a soft cloth to loosen up any grime and remove the dust.
- Full Comprehensive Cleaning
For a more all-inclusive clean, ready a cleaning solution of warm water with a drop or two of mild dishwashing liquid in a bowl or bucket. Wet a sponge with this solution and then repeatedly wipe the limestone surface. Rinse it with clean water and then wipe it over with a soft, dry cloth and let it air dry.
- The Prevention of Stains
Whatever you do, never place flower vases containing water on to a limestone surface, because any water or moisture will react between the limestone and the base of the vase, thus producing difficult to remove ring-like impressions.
With the simple advice above, your limestone fireplace and surrounding will serve you beautifully for many years to come.