How would you like to save money on the electric bill and have a toasty warm house this winter? Consider the addition of a limestone fireplace where people can enjoy a romantic fire and add beauty to living space as well. Whether they are installed in the master bedroom, living room or home office they create a handsome look to each room. Choose from Edwardian, Victorian, Georgian or Modern themes using limestone for one of a kind fireplaces.

Qualities/Benefits

Fireplaces can be designed in electric, gas or wood-burning styles, whichever style fit's the budget or lifestyle requirements. Limestone is a durable stone that works well in numerous design styles. This sedimentary rock is composed of calcium carbonate or a combination of magnesium and carbonate of calcium. For the most part it is a soft rock and porous, which can work to the advantage of skilled artisans that work their magic to create beautiful limestone fireplaces.

It can be purchased in low, medium or high density. Textures and colours are all affected by texture streaks, iron spots, grain formation changes, calcite streaks and shell or fossil formations. Because the rock is soft, masons can work with blocks of limestone from rock quarries cutting them into slabs or tiles to fit a variety of designs.

Homeowners might wish to consider this stone over granite marble just because it is that much cheaper. In addition, depending upon the quality, texture and how it is cut it can be made to resemble fine granite marble in appearance. A marbleized appearance can be obtained for a surround using the right amount of pieces precisely cut to show the grain in the stone. Another benefit of installing limestone fireplaces is that they can usually be purchase for almost half the cost of other stonework.

Cleaning

Marks or stains may appear on the stones and these are easily cleaned up. The simplest method for keeping the stonework looking good is to use a clean rag dipped in a mild solution of dish washing liquid mixed with warm water. Take care not to flood stones with water. This cleaning technique should work well for wine or coffee spills that are often found around a fireplace.

Avoid setting wine glasses, coffee mugs or vases on limestone that could leave a stain or ring if spilled. Spray cleaners and polish are not needed, nor advisable for use on this type of porous surface.

Sealing

High quality sealants are not going to change the colour of the stone when applied properly. They seal and prevent liquids from staining. Many reputable dealers will seal fireplaces or a fluid sealant can be applied after installation. In some cases it is necessary to go through the sealing process twice for proper saturation.

When considering the installation of a stone fireplace it is noteworthy that homeowners usually recoup most of their investment money when a home is sold. Homes show better to prospective buyers and are more marketable. Enjoy the benefits and virtues of a beautiful limestone fireplace on a cold winters evening.