Frequently Asked Questions
Our cast limestone is made from limestone quarried near Austin, Texas that has been crushed to our specifications; mixed with additives to improve workability and strength, and then formed in custom molds. With cast limestone, we have the ability to better control material strength, color, and finish. In fact, Siteworks’ cast limestone is actually stronger than quarried limestone.

There are many:

  • Through the use of precision molds, casting is more exact than carving.
  • Cast limestone has a more uniform strength than quarried stone.
  • Our cast limestone has a lower absorption rate and is more stain resistant.
  • Colors are custom blended for better consistency.
  • Lead-time is significantly reduced.
  • Cast limestone mantels cost less than carved limestone mantels.

No. Most cast stone products are concrete made with Portland cement, silica sand and aggregate filler, and are generally used in exterior architectural applications. To have the elegance of natural limestone, with the uniform strength of cast stone, make sure you specify genuine cast limestone.

Yes, all of our components can be purchased separately.

We handle crating and shipment to your home. In most areas of the county, we can arrange lift-gate service to your home. We will arrange to meet the delivery, inspect for any damage, and ensure proper placement and storage until the mantel can be installed.

Our mantels are available in two finishes: a smooth finish and a distressed finish. Our standard smooth finish is like fine honed limestone. (Not shiny like polished granite.) To achieve this finish, we wet sand or lightly acid etch the material after removing it from the mold. Our distressed finish, achieved by sandblasting, has a rougher surface texture and presents an older or more rustic appearance.

Filler panels are used to cover the area between the firebox opening & the surround when the desired mantel is larger than the firebox. Other materials such as marble or granite (obtained from other sources) can also be used.

Just ask us. We can change a mantel’s height by interchanging legs, making cuts, or adding or subtracting plinth blocks.

No. Our cast limestone is made using real limestone and is similar to the weight of natural stone. This should be taken into consideration when ordering and planning for off-loading and installation of your mantel.

Generally not. Excellent masonry skills and adequate lifting equipment are required. Remember that many of these mantels weigh over 1,200 pounds. Smaller mantels, such as those in our Villa collection, may be installed by homeowners with tile setting skills.

Although most of our fireplace surrounds go into new homes, many people have used our limestone mantels to enhance the appearance of their existing brick or wood mantel designs.

There are several items that contribute to the total cost:

  • Materials – cast limestone is more expensive than other cast stone.
  • Size – a larger fireplace is more expensive than a smaller one.
  • Coverage – a complete floor-to-ceiling design that includes an over-mantel is more expensive than a mantel-only option.
  • Complexity – a more complex or ornate design is more expensive than a simpler classic design.
  • Customization – an installation that requires extensive custom modifications is more expensive than a standard design.

Yes, we can cast an electrical outlet box into the top of the shelf with a conduit running to the back of the shelf so that electrical wire can easily be pulled from the wall to the outlet box.

Just ask. We can change a mantel’s height by interchanging legs, making cuts, or adding or subtracting plinth blocks.

Limestone Mantels Luxe contracts with pre-vetted and fully licensed and insured stone masons in your local area to provide professional installation. Typically a layer of thin-set mortar is applied to the sub-floor as the foundation for the hearth. Once this is set, the legs, top-shelf, and over-mantel (if applicable) are lifted into place and secured to the wall using thin-set mortar and split-tailed masonry anchors. All seams are then filled with matching grout or sanded caulk. Finally, the filler
panels are secured using thin-set mortar.
Within 30 days, Limestone Mantels Luxe will conduct a site visit to confirm the quality of the installation and the overall customer satisfaction.

All of our products are pre-sealed with a siloxane water repellent developed for limestone to provide deep penetration and long lasting protection without altering the natural appearance of the products.
If necessary, periodic cleaning of your mantel may be done with a mild detergent and a natural bristle brush. Rinse afterwards with clear water. (Do not use steel wool, wire brushes of any type, or products containing acid).

Limestone Mantels Luxe will conduct quality review of your mantel within 30 days of installation to ensure your complete satisfaction with the product and the installation.