Q&A
Can I have limestone for my kitchen/Bath?
Absolutely! Marble and limestone countertops have been used for centuries in Europe. Just keep in mind that limestone, like marble and travertine is a calcium-carbonate which will etch when in contact with acidic products. To help minimize staining and etching we recommend applying the appropriate stone sealer and re-applying when necessary.
What kind of stone can I put on the floor?
It depends on the application. Residential applications can use Class II or Class III stone for flooring and for commercial applications we recommend Class III stone only. In addition, for some commercial application, a slip resistance test may be required.
What kind of stone can I put outside?
All of our stones are suitable for exterior use in frost free climates. Residential applications can use
Class II or Class III stone for flooring and for commercial applications we recommend Class III stone only. Class I, II and III stone can be used for wall cladding in both residential and commercial applications.
Can I have different stone on the same floor?
Yes. However if the stones selected are from two different stone classifications, they will wear differently.
Do I have to seal or maintain a stone for outside and inside?
Yes, we highly recommend sealing your stone when installed and thereafter as it’s needed different sealers apply to interior and exterior applications.
What stone sealer do you recommend?
There are plenty of great stone sealing products out there. Please consult with your installer or fabricator which product is best for your application. Also consult the stone care section for more details.
How often shall I re-seal the stone?
Every situation is different. Some applications require the stone to be re-sealed every year while other can go years before re-sealing. The best way to determine if your stone needs to be re-sealed is by doing a simple water test. Apply a small amount of water to the surface of the stone and let it sit for a
20 minutes. If the water seeps into the stone then the sealer has broken down and would need to be reapplied.
I live in a climate with frost and snow. What stone can I use that will be exposed to the elements?
Many of our stone are frost resistant. Specific installation guideline for reeze thaw climates are also necessary. Please consult with us in selecting the right stone for your project.
Do you fabricate/cut to size locally?
We do not fabricate or install. Under certain circumstances we’ll contract out for local fabrication/cut to size for small quantities and noncomplex items.
What if I like a stone but want a different finish than what is available in stock?
We can produce some specialty finishes locally in small quantities. However we prefer to work directly with the factories who are better equipped and not as costly.
What is the minimum quantity for a special order?
We require a minimum order of 350sf.
Is there anything I need to know before installing your stone?
We recommend cleaning the stone and then sealing it prior to grouting. Once the stone is installed and grouted re-seal the stone again. In most cases the stone will take two or more coats of sealer.
Use white thin-set when setting the limestone. A good anti-fracture underlay is key for the longevity of the installed. In addition, exterior applications require waterproof membrane underlay.