Exploring Limestone for Walls: Age Comparison and Varieties

Posted on 13th February 2024

Limestone Walling: A Timeless Choice Amidst Stone Varieties

In the realm of natural stone, limestone has stood the test of time as a preferred choice for walling. This blog post aims to shed light on limestone walling, comparing its geological age to that of sandstone and granite, and exploring the various types of limestone available. Whether you're considering limestone for your next project or are simply intrigued by its characteristics, this post is for you.

Is limestone good for walls?

Limestone walling is not only aesthetically pleasing but also remarkably durable. It's a versatile stone that can be used in various settings, from traditional to contemporary designs. Limestone's natural beauty, with its array of colours and textures, adds uniqueness to each installation. Additionally, it’s known for its insulation properties and ability to withstand different weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for both interior and exterior walls. When considering limestone for walling, it’s important to factor in its maintenance requirements, such as regular sealing to prevent staining and erosion.

Is limestone older than sandstone?

Limestone is not necessarily older than sandstone. The age of these rocks depends on when they were formed. Limestone and sandstone are both sedimentary rocks, but they can form at different times. Limestone is typically formed from the calcareous remains of marine organisms, while sandstone is formed from compacted sand. The age of a particular limestone or sandstone deposit depends on the geological history of the area where it formed. In general, there are both ancient and relatively young deposits of both limestone and sandstone around the world.

Is limestone older than granite?

Limestone is generally not older than granite. Granite is an igneous rock that forms from the slow cooling of magma deep beneath the Earth's surface and is one of the oldest types of rocks on Earth. In contrast, limestone is a sedimentary rock that typically forms in marine environments from the accumulation of shell, coral, algal, and fecal debris. It can also form through the precipitation of calcium carbonate from lake or ocean water. Since granite originates from processes deep within the Earth's crust much earlier in the Earth's geological history, it is usually older than sedimentary rocks like limestone.

Are there different types of limestone? 

Limestone comes in a variety of types, each with unique characteristics. These include:

1. Chalk: Soft, white limestone, often associated with the famous White Cliffs of Dover.
2. Travertine: A form of limestone deposited by mineral springs, known for its layered texture.
3. Tufa: A porous limestone rock formed near waterfalls or springs.
4. Coquina: Composed mostly of shell and coral fragments, often used in coastal architecture.
5. Fossiliferous Limestone: Contains visible fossil fragments, adding a unique aspect to the stone.

Each type of limestone has its specific qualities and suitability for different applications, including walling.

Limestone walling offers an exceptional balance of beauty, durability, and versatility. Its comparison with older stones like granite and relatively younger ones like sandstone highlights its unique place in the geological timeline. The various types of limestone available provide a wealth of options for architects and builders, making it a reliable and attractive choice for any project.

Be sure to explore our stunning range of limestone walling here, ideal for bringing your garden to life.