Lueders Limestone vs Marble: Which Is Better?

If you are trying to decide between lueders limestone and marble for your next project, learning more about these materials can help you make the right choice.

Understanding the Materials

Lueders Limestone

This sedimentary rock is a favorite of design and construction experts. Limestone is formed primarily of shells and marine animal skeletons. Time and pressure make these combine and compact, leaving behind a sturdy stone. A popular variety is “lueders.” This Texan limestone is available in many shades, such as buff or charcoal lueders.

Marble

Known for its many colors and distinct veining, marble is another popular material. This metamorphic rock is created when rock-forming processes heat and squeeze existing limestone. When the grains recrystallize, they metamorphose into marble.

What Is the “Better” Stone?

These stones have similar levels of hardness, strength, and longevity. As such, to choose the best material for your project, it helps to consider each stone’s:

Versatility

Due to its slip-resistant texture and durability, limestone is ideal for interior and exterior use. Since there are many colors, like charcoal or buff lueders, there will be a beautiful selection for any project. Popular uses for limestone include flooring, feature walls, and fireplaces.

Marble can also be used in many projects; popular ways to feature this material include fireplace surrounds, sculptures, and countertops. While it can be used for flooring, remember that its smooth texture can make it slippery — especially in outdoor spaces.

Maintenance

Limestone is very easy to care for. Usually, you only need to occasionally sweep or wipe down the features to keep everything looking its best. Additionally, its resistance to cracking and weathering means you will not have to worry about repairing breaks.

If you are looking for a low-maintenance stone, marble is often not ideal. Most selections have a high polish to provide the shiny appearance that marble is known for. To keep this intact, you will need to regularly clean and seal the material.

Overall Price

Any natural stone will cost more than most artificial materials. However, the costs between limestone and marble vary significantly. Due to its abundance, limestone is a cost-effective choice for most projects; this is increased when you consider the time saved on maintenance.

While the specific cost depends on the color and amount of veining, marble is, as a whole, a more expensive rock than limestone. Additionally, while buff or charcoal lueders come from nearby quarries, marble must often be imported, increasing its price.

Your Ideal Stone Choice

Limestone is often the better option for various projects because of its design and construction versatility, ease of maintenance, and material cost.

Your Source for Charcoal and Buff Lueders

Richburg Stone is a leading supplier of high-quality natural limestone. Visit our website or OKC showroom to start finding your perfect selection.