There are numerous benefits to having a limestone fireplace, including this gorgeous stone’s natural durability – plus the fact that it doesn’t easily dent, scratch or otherwise get damaged. It also has great heat-resistant properties and, apart from anything else, looks stunning. And for manufacturers, it’s softer than equivalent materials, and so easier to work with.
But limestone tends to be quite pale, so will need a bit of regular TLC when you have it in a fireplace. This helps prevent permanent marks from forming.
Clean every time you light a fire
After each use of your fireplace, clean it with a soft brush, dustpan and non-abrasive cloth, which you can dampen slightly. You can also use a vacuum cleaner and brush adapter.
A more thorough clean
A deeper clean will help remove unsightly marks and stains. After sweeping your limestone with a soft brush, add a few drops of mild washing-up liquid to a bucket of hot water to make a mild solution. Wipe down your hearth with your cloth twice, the second time with clean water to rinse. Make sure you’ve left no soapy residue behind. Then remove any remaining moisture with a dry cloth.
Allow your stone to dry out before you use any other products on it. Bear in mind that it will look darker when wet, so the drying process can take a few days.
In the winter, if you light up to seven fires a week, clean with soapy water weekly. If you only use your fireplace one or two days a week, you need only do this type of cleaning fortnightly or monthly. Even in the summer, a monthly clean with soapy water is a good idea.
Finally, as always with natural stone, mop up any spillages immediately.
Dealing with watermarks
Vases, mugs, cups and glasses can leave marks behind; indeed, this happens quite often. A warm, soapy solution (a dilute one) is a good way of dealing with this issue. If you feel you know what you’re doing, you can try sandpaper if this doesn’t work. (Alternatively, call in professional limestone cleaners.)
In summary, always use coasters and don’t place ashtrays, vases or candles directly on to the stone surface.
For a deep clean, you can also use specialist products – but stick to something that’s specifically designed for use on limestone fireplaces. Lay protective coverings around the area you’re working on, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter.
Here to help
If all this sounds a bit complex, or you’re worried about potentially damaging your fireplace, turn to us at Royal Stone Care. We’re professionals, working with all kinds of natural stone repair including limestone chip repair in London. We can help you whether your fireplace is in a home or business, anywhere in the area.
Get in touch today to discuss your requirements.
