| Q. |
What is cast limestone? |
| A. |
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. |
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| Q. |
What are
the advantages of using cast limestone instead of cut limestone? |
| A. |
There are many:
- Through the use of precision moulds, 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.
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| Q. |
Are all cast stone products cast
limestone? |
| A. |
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 get the natural beauty and
elegance of natural limestone, with the uniform strength of cast stone, make sure you
specify genuine cast limestone. |
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| Q. |
Can we buy a mantel without a
hearth or filler panels? |
| A. |
Yes, all of our components can be
purchased separately. |
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| Q. |
How do I measure my fireplace? |
| A. |
The critical dimensions are obtained
by measuring the actual firebox opening, left to right, and up and down. Also, the
distance from the bottom of the opening to the floor if the firebox is raised off the
floor. The distance from the top of the firebox opening to the ceiling is also needed if
an overmantel is required. |
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| Q. |
How is delivery of the
fireplace to my home or homesite handled? |
| A. |
We handle crating and shipment to your
home. You or your contractor will need to arrange for adequate personnel or equipment
(such as a forklift) to get the crate(s) off the truck In most areas of
the country, we can arrange lift-gate service if a forklift isn't
available. |
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| Q. |
Is the surface of the mantels
smooth or rough? |
| A. |
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. |
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| Q. |
Why do I need filler panels? |
| A. |
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 can be used such as marble or granite (obtained from other sources). |
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| Q. |
Can I mix and match headers
and legs? |
| A. |
Yes, some headers and legs are interchangeable.
See the "Custom Combination Mantels"
section for more detail. |
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| Q. |
Can I have my installer cut
the filler panels on site? |
| A. |
Yes, this is done if you are using materials by others or if there are questions about dimensions. Normally, Siteworks will pre-cut all materials to the dimensions of your fireplace and no field cutting will be required.
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| Q. |
Is this product made from
lightweight concrete? |
| A. |
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 off loading of your mantel. |
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| Q. |
Is installing a limestone fireplace
surround a "do it yourself" project? |
| A. |
Generally not. Excellent masonry
skills and adequate lifting equipment are required. Remember that many of these fireplaces
weigh over 1,500 pounds. |
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| Q. |
Does Siteworks sell fireboxes? |
| A. |
No. |
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| Q. |
How do I find someone to install my
Siteworks fireplace? |
| A. |
Your best source is usually a local
mason or masonry contractor. Many general contractors will also have the necessary ability or would
be able to recommend someone who does. Designers also keep source lists and can make local
recommendations. In some locations, Siteworks can provide a list of companies that have
installed our products in the past. |
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| Q. |
Are Siteworks products for new
construction only or can they be installed in an existing home? |
| A. |
Although most of our fireplace
surrounds go into new homes, many people have used our limestone mantels to enhance the
appearance of their existing homes. |
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| Q. |
What determines the cost of the
fireplace? |
| A. |
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 overmantel 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
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