Black limestone

[sjl2007]

Hi 4 years ago I had black limestone laid as a path and patio and I am now having this extended. The problem is that the limestone is a dull grey despite being sealed with linofin colour intensifier . The new stone is a lot darker. How do the builders get all of the patio and path to be a dark black colour. I don't really think that this has ever happened but know that the new stone will probably go the same way - so is there any way that i can achieve the dark black color similar to when it is wet ? Many thanks for any help you can give sarah

 

[swanman]

Re: Blacklime stone

I think its a time thing

not much can be done in my opinion

 

[DHTiling]

If the stone is accepting water , as in it wets up when water is applied , then yes it will probably accept more colour intensifier..

Can you post some pics , so we can see thew degree of lightning of the limestone slabs.

 

[sjl2007]

Hi the lighter colour is very dirty due to building work so builders are going to clean first.

 

[DHTiling]

Don't let them use brick acid to clean... it will ruin the slabs...

I have found that the Fila colour enhancer is better than the ltp one.. so worth thinking about..

 

[sjl2007]

Is that better than lithofin colour enhancer ? How best to achieve the dark black similar to when they are wet look ?

 

[DHTiling]

I would say so yes.. IMHO opinion it is on par with aquamix enrich and seal for colour enhancing.. but as with all products test to see if result is satisfactory... and reapply as it fades with the UV bleaching from the sun and general wear and tear....

I can recommend LTP Grimex as a cleaner for black limestone... but if they have got cement dust on them, then that will need further treatment sometimes to remove.

 

[sjl2007]

Thanks for quick reply - I didnt realise they need special cleaning beforehand ? They need to be washed down as the fade ones are extremely filthy with dirt due to landscaping and changes in patio

 

[sjl2007]

I have seen in another post about initially using a stone oil and then a colour enhancer - would this work to achieve the dark black colour (like you see when they are wet). Do you need to use a special cleaner before applying ??

 

[Topshop]

I think the old sealer will need to be removed before applying new to be sure the new enhancer and sealer gets into the stone. Dave seems to be on the right track with the products to use. The cleaner may need to be agitated well with a brush. Be sure all the stone is completely dry before applying the enhancers and sealers.

 

[sjl2007]

I have cleaned the slabs by scrubbing with water and I had a sample of the grimex which I will now order more of - how long is it after cleaning with this can I apply the stone oil as the weather is not looking to good ! Will it be an issue if they are left unsealed for a while ?