*
I very much like the look of limestone for my kitchen countertop but have heard very conflicting information. The latest that I’ve heard is that it’s a great surfact if you’re willing to oil it once a month, which I am. I’m more concerned about bacteria, staining, and scratching. I’ve been told that while softer than granite, the limestone used for kitchen countertops is quite durable. I would appreciate any inpute, particularly from anyone who currently has limestone in their kitchen.
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Fine Homebuilding's editorial director has some fun news to share.
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
*
I have had a large section of my counter in light colored marble. I loved it for baking etc. BUT it absorbed stains at a blink of an eye. coffee and wine drips etc. were a problem. Looking into the stain problem with limestone. Granite has bulit in Camouflage.
*i would not use limestone for my kitchen countertop. If you want to use a stone product use granite as even marble will stain. Limestone is one of the most porous stones i have ever worked with and stains easily.
*Limestone does indeed stain. Acids (citrus, etc) may also etch the surface. You would indeed need a sealer.With the myriad colors available, some do hide discoloration better than others, but regardless, there would still be a bit of upkeep involved.
*There is apparently a very big difference a) in density of limestones, the European (French?) ones being significantly denser that American and b) the porosity of finish.... rough cut or tumbled vs. honed vs. polished. There is also the issue of personal tolerance or preference. If you want showroom, magazine cover perfect forever, limestone and marble may be poor choices for kitchens. If you want a traditional or worked-in lived-in look a few stains may just be part of the character.You can also do food preparation on separate, replaceable and washable cutting boards which can limit staining.We've had polished marble in as kitchen backsplashes for about 2 years now and no staining yet.
*
I very much like the look of limestone for my kitchen countertop but have heard very conflicting information. The latest that I've heard is that it's a great surfact if you're willing to oil it once a month, which I am. I'm more concerned about bacteria, staining, and scratching. I've been told that while softer than granite, the limestone used for kitchen countertops is quite durable. I would appreciate any inpute, particularly from anyone who currently has limestone in their kitchen.