Natural Stone for Cladding
Lebanese Limestone hails from the tiny middle-eastern country of Lebanon, also known as the Lebanese Republic, where it has been used in construction since ancient times, most notably by the original inhabitants of the area known as the Phoenicians. Lebanese Limestone is similar in composition to maliki or Jerusalem stone, a type of limestone. Due mainly to its innate strength and exotic beauty, as well as growing trade ties, Lebanese Limestone is growing in popularity in the United States due to its contribution to the aesthetic of your design and landscape.(Ref. D.L Hickman & Son Inc)
Characteristics
Lebanese Limestone is predominantly white or pale gold with a rich, coarse grain. Subtle pinks and rosy hues are also not uncommon, while other variants include light to deep brown. The stone’s high crystal content makes it hard and durable, able to withstand environmental pressures of both extreme sun exposure and water erosion. The surface of the limestone is clear once polished and can be used to create a strong, high quality marble. Dolomite and quartz deposits frequently give Lebanese Limestone a gentle sparkle.(Ref. D.L Hickman & Son Inc)
Use in Landscape Construction
Lebanese Limestone has its uses as both a smooth, highly polished surface for use in floors and decorative features, as well as a rough, natural tile that can be used in everything from walkways and patios to stone veneers for outdoor cabinets and fireplaces. In its unrefined form, limestone provides an excellent non-slip surface, perfect for spa and pool surrounds, while the light color and reflective surface keep it from becoming uncomfortably hot in the sun.
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Limestone is also strong enough to be used in the making of structures such as fireplaces and has an attractive, natural appeal when used in retaining walls and stairs, or as landscape accents such as decorative boulders. Construction with limestone is tried and tested and many ancient limestone buildings have lasted hundreds if not thousands of years, as is the case with many Lebanese temples and monuments, along with notable buildings around the world including the Great Pyramid of Giza and the megalithic temples of Malta. (Ref. D.L Hickman & Son Inc)