Limestone
In Estonia, the range of limestones is vast. In the field of construction, however, the most commonly used varieties are Ungru limestone, Lasnamäe limestone, Saaremaa and Orgita dolomite. These stones have been used in construction for at least 600–700 years, the buildings built from local limestones include churches and bishop’s castles.
Furthermore, Lasnamäe limestone has been used in the construction of the Tallinn City Wall as well as for the manufacture of gravestones in St. Petersburg and in the Nordic countries.
Today, limestone can be used as a facade or masonry stone, and as a floor and pavement tile.
When and where to prefer limestone?
The main reason for using limestone is the desire to build from domestic natural materials; in terms of usage characteristics, preference is usually given to other natural stones that are not found in Estonia.
What to consider when choosing limestone?
After Estonia gained its independence, use of our domestic limestone has risen to its former glory. At the same time, various foreign limestones are also often used, the usage characteristics of which are somewhat more versatile.
In Estonia, the most commonly used foreign limestones come from Germany. These include the Solnhofen limestone, mainly used with a natural surface, and the more processed variety, the so-called Jurassic marble.
As a naturally very smooth fossilstone, the Solnhofen limestone with proper treatment can be cleaned very easily, making it a popular interior stone. At the same time, we have also used fossilstone limestone on the facades of private residences and for the construction of garden paths and squares.
As in the case of fossilstone, the Jurassic marble is a natural stone from Germany, and is used for floors, staircases, window sills and facades. The stones come in a variety of colours and textures. The Jurassic marble is a rather durable material that can also be used in public buildings.
