Black limestone is a common and well-liked type of limestone. Its dark grey/black aesthetics offer a contemporary look for paving and patios. Black limestone is used for residential and commercial outdoor areas, such as patios, paving, roofing, steps, wall cladding and cobbles. It is also popular for indoor features, such as countertops and flooring, as it can be hand-cut into customised slabs. Black limestone provides a sleek modern style, making it a prevalent choice for many property owners and investors, particularly over the last few years.
This article will discuss the qualities of black limestone and how to care for it correctly.
Why Does Black Limestone Paving Fade?
While black limestone has much to offer in the way of style and aesthetics, one drawback is that it tends to fade. The deep, rich black colour will fade to grey, particularly on external surfaces. Due to the elements, this could happen in as little as a few months after installation. Sun fading, rain and ice all contribute to the fading of black limestone, mainly because of a chemical reaction the stone has with the acidity of UK rain. Even indoor features will fade, albeit slower than external surfaces, due to washing and natural light. Black limestone will not retain the deep black hue long term without adequate protection.
Does Black Limestone Need to be Sealed
Sealing black limestone can transform, rejuvenate and protect the surface, keeping it vibrant for much longer. SmartSeal’s black limestone sealer is a highly effective, durable sealer that will enhance the longevity of your stone, helping it retain its original shine. The sealer will inject colour back into the stone and serve as a barrier against the elements. Premium sealers, such as SmartSeal’s black limestone sealer, preserve the look and condition of patios, flooring and features.
What Happens if You Don’t Seal Black Limestone?
Unsealed black limestone will fade rapidly and lose its initial appeal. Black limestone is porous and susceptible to acidic solutions. This means rain, food and drink spillages, and oil, can all reduce the appearance of your surface. A once stylish and vibrant surface could become unsightly.
How do you Restore Faded Black Limestone?
Black limestone will inevitably lose its pristine appeal, but that doesn’t mean it is ruined or needs replacing. Black limestone is prone to spots, fading and defects over time, but the stone is durable and can be renewed with proper care.
How do you Clean Black Limestone Paving?
Ridding black limestone of stains and marks is not as difficult as it sounds. While you may want to jetwash your surface, you should know that high-pressure washing could damage it when not performed correctly with the right tools and products. Some light stains can be removed with a simple wiping or gentle scrubbing and soapy water. You will need products specific to the job for tough stains and grime.
What is the Best Cleaner for Black Limestone?
You must use the correct chemicals and products when cleaning black limestone. Using the wrong solutions could damage the surface. While good old elbow grease can tackle light stains and dirt, often, you will need to use professional chemical solutions designed for this type of surface material. SmartSeal’s natural stone cleaner cleans limestone, and removes stains, oil, dirt, algae and lichen. You should ensure you follow the instructions when using the solution.
Does Black Limestone Scratch?
Unfortunately, limestone is a soft rock that can scratch easily, which can leave a light-coloured mark on the dark surface. Any attempt at sanding the area will cause further damage. A high-quality sealer will help reduce the risk of scratches on black limestone while preserving its colour.
Black Limestone Paving or Slate Paving?
When deciding between black limestone and slate, there are several things to consider. Price-wise there is little difference, and both are excellent choices for external surfaces. Black limestone has an appealing aesthetic with its rich dark sheen, but as discussed above, this does need to be maintained to prevent fading. Slate is available in black, dark red and dark green, making it a popular patio choice.
While both materials have many qualities, black limestone and slate are slightly different under the elements. Limestone may become bumpy over time as it wears at different rates, whereas slate wears more evenly but is susceptible to cracking and scratching with extreme wear. Slate is more resistant to chemicals and, therefore, less volatile when you clean it, but many people prefer the sleek cosmetic appeal of black limestone. Both have benefits, which you choose will depend on your taste and the area used.
