| SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| SKU | EMBRLIMTIL365301 |
| Material | Limestone |
| Size | 4”x12” |
| Thickness | 3/8” |
| Shape | Rectangle |
| Color | Brown |
| Finish | Leather Tumbled |
| Sold By | Box |
| Items in Box | 15 |
| Coverage | Square Feet |
| Usage Area | Floor, Wall |
| Room | Kitchen, Bathroom, Shower, Fireplace, Laundry Room, Entryway, Bar |
| Weight | 5.50 lbs/Square Foot |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is limestone and what makes it suitable for tiling?
Limestone is a natural sedimentary rock formed from ancient marine deposits, giving it a soft, muted palette of creams, beiges, greys, and warm browns. Its understated, natural appearance suits both contemporary and classic interiors and it's a popular choice for floors and walls.
Where can limestone tiles be used?
Limestone works well on floors, walls, bathrooms, hallways, living areas, and feature walls. It's also used outdoors in milder climates, though its softness relative to granite or slate means it requires more care in high-traffic and exposed settings.
Can limestone be used outdoors?
Yes in suitable climates, but limestone is softer and more porous than many other natural stones, so it's more vulnerable to frost, weathering, and heavy wear outdoors. Always check the specific tile's frost rating and use an appropriate exterior-grade sealer and adhesive.
Does limestone need to be sealed?
Yes, and this is especially important with limestone. It's porous and calcium-based, making it vulnerable to both staining and acid etching. We recommend sealing before grouting and re-sealing regularly with a penetrating sealer to keep the stone protected.
Is limestone sensitive to acids?
Yes. Like marble and travertine, limestone is calcium carbonate-based, so acidic substances — lemon juice, vinegar, wine, coffee, and many household cleaners — will etch the surface, leaving dull marks. Always use pH-neutral cleaners and wipe spills immediately.
How does limestone compare to marble and travertine?
All three are calcium-based stones that share similar care requirements — sealing, pH-neutral cleaning, acid sensitivity. Limestone tends to be more understated in appearance with less dramatic veining than marble, and without the characteristic voids of travertine. It's often chosen for a quieter, more natural look.
Why do limestone tiles vary in color and texture?
Limestone is a natural product formed over millions of years, so shade, fossil detail, and surface texture vary between tiles and batches. Some limestone contains visible shell or fossil fragments, which are a natural feature of the stone and not a defect.
Are fossil marks and shell fragments in the tile normal?
Yes, completely. Limestone is formed from compressed marine sediment, so fossils, shell impressions, and organic markings are a natural characteristic of the stone. Many customers consider these features part of its character and appeal.
Is limestone suitable for wet areas like bathrooms and showers?
Yes when properly sealed, and a honed or brushed finish is recommended over polished for better slip resistance. Limestone is a popular choice for bathroom floors and walls, but consistent sealing and maintenance are more important here than in dry areas.
How do I clean and maintain limestone?
Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner and a soft mop or cloth. Avoid acidic, abrasive, or general-purpose household cleaners entirely. Wipe spills promptly, use mats or rugs in high-traffic areas, and re-seal as recommended to keep the stone protected over time.
How much area does one box cover?
Each box covers approximately 5.0 square feet. Measure the area you need to cover and add about 10% extra for cuts and waste.
Can I order a sample before buying?
Yes — for this product you can order a swatch sample or a 4-piece sample set before placing a full order.
