Limestone

A softer stone, more precise machining

Limestone is a softer and more porous natural stone than granite, and that shows already at the factory: edges are profiled more carefully, cut-out corners are rounded and the narrow bridges around the sink are supported. We machine the slabs on CNC machines at our own factory in Tallinn and seal the surface before transport. Our measurer visits the site in Finland with a laser, and the same team installs the worktop — responsibility is not split between several parties and there is no retailer’s margin in the price.

We hold 100+ stone materials in stock, so limestone can be compared with marble and granite on the same visit. At the measurement we look particularly at how the sink is fixed, the support of overhangs and whether the worktop is going somewhere acidic substances are handled. Limestone is not the stone for every kitchen, and we say so out loud: it rewards you when the surface is allowed to live and care is part of the routine.

Which limestone is right for you?

Limestone shades are restrained and the pattern subtle. Jura Grey is blue-grey with visible light fossil traces and small flecks; it suits concrete, oak and dark wood. Jura Beige is a warm creamy light shade, and its soft tone makes a bathroom or utility room calm. Reval-type Estonian and Nordic limestones are grey and denser; they have a fine fossil pattern and often better wear resistance than other limestones. Dark limestones are rarer, but work in fireplace surrounds and window seats.

The surface finish is almost always honed, i.e. matt — a polished surface shows scratches and acid marks more readily. A brushed surface accentuates the structure of the stone and feels soft to the touch. We compare shades with samples and full slabs, so the pattern and fossils are known before cutting.

Limestone in the kitchen, bathroom and elsewhere

A bathroom vanity top and utility room are limestone’s most natural uses: water does not harm a sealed surface and there are hardly any acids. Window seats, fireplace surrounds and indoor stairs hold up well, because no cooking happens there. In the kitchen, limestone suits you if you value a natural, slightly living surface and accept renewing the sealing; for heavy cooking we recommend quartz or ceramic. Outdoors we recommend granite or ceramic, as limestone weathers to a patina. See bathroom stone countertops and stone windowsills.

Limestone compared with other stone worktops

What makes up the price of a limestone worktop?

The price is affected by the type of stone and its availability, the slab thickness, the dimensions and shape of the worktop, the edge profile, the cut-outs and the amount of installation work. Limestone often needs more handwork than usual: edge finishing, support of the bridges and sealing are done more carefully than with hard stones. We do not give a figure before the measurement. After the measurement you get a fixed quote with the work stages itemised — straight from our factory with no intermediaries.

Care and durability in everyday life

Limestone withstands normal home use when three things are in order: sealing at installation and renewing it regularly, a pH-neutral detergent, and wiping up spills immediately. Lemon, wine and vinegar leave a dull mark if left on the surface. Scratches and small marks can be honed away, because a matt surface does not need re-polishing. A chopping board and trivet are part of the routine. You will find instructions on the maintenance and cleaning page.

When will the limestone worktop be at home?

Delivery and installation in Finland — 14 working days from drawing approval. At the measurement we tell you the exact installation date and what needs to be ready on site. If required, we remove the old worktop and take care of appliance connections and plumbing as separately priced services, so that one responsible person is enough.

Can I claim the household deduction for a limestone worktop?

You can claim the kotitalousvähennys (household deduction) for the installation work. We itemise the labour share as a separate line on the invoice, and you claim the deduction yourself in OmaVero. Stone, machining and transport are not covered by the deduction. Check the current terms and maximum amounts on vero.fi before ordering.

Limestone or marble?

Both are calcareous and sensitive to acids, but the look differs: marble has veining and shine, limestone a restrained matt surface and fine fossil traces. Limestone is often slightly softer, but its matt surface hides patina better than marble. If you want stone as a backdrop rather than an eye-catcher, limestone is a natural choice.

Why is sealing more important with limestone than with granite?

Because limestone is more porous: oil and coloured liquids soak in faster and deeper. The sealer fills the pores and gives you time to wipe up spills before they set. We do the first treatment at the factory and advise you at installation on how to test with a drop of water when it is time to renew.

Request a quote and we will agree a measurement time and go through the limestone shades — contact us.

Guaranteed quality

Quality is paramount to us and through our regular quality controls we can always ensure the high quality of our products. We scrutinise all stones from the quarry to the factory. We track every step of the process to ensure that we can deliver the highest-quality products.

Take care of your limestone

As you have already read, limestone is a more delicate stone and therefore requires care and attention. The same applies to most natural stones. The easiest way to keep marble looking good is to wipe up stains immediately before they are absorbed. In addition, it is recommended to treat the surface 1–2 times a month with a care product. Through this routine, your marble will stay beautiful for a long time.

Fast deliveries

We will respond to your enquiry shortly and once you have chosen your stone, we usually deliver it within 1–2 weeks. Customer satisfaction is our priority, and we always want to provide fast and good service. To give you extra peace of mind, we offer a long warranty on both the product and the service.