Dressing White Lias Stone

White Lias is a premium limestone, known for its fine grain, light color, and durability. Sourced primarily from Somerset and Dorset, it has been used for centuries in traditional buildings across the UK. At Somerset Reclamation, we can provide reclaimed and dressed white lias stone for construction, restoration, and architectural projects.

The Process of Dressing White Lias Stone:

1. Quarrying and Selection
   White lias is extracted from quarries in large blocks. Only the best quality stone is selected for dressing, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal. Depending on the project, different grades are chosen, with higher grades reserved for detailed architectural work.

2. Cutting
   The stone is first cut down to manageable sizes. Our team uses traditional and modern methods to ensure precise cuts, preparing the stone for dressing or further shaping.

3. Dressing

   • Rough Dressing: This initial step shapes the stone to its general form. Hand tools like hammers and chisels are used to achieve the desired dimensions.
   • Fine Dressing: The stone is further refined to a smooth finish using chisels and rasps. Depending on the project, a variety of finishes can be achieved:
     • Tooled Finish: Adds texture with chisel marks for a rustic, handcrafted look.
     • Honed or Polished Finish: Creates a smooth or glossy surface for modern or decorative applications.

4. Carving and Detailing
   White lias is ideal for intricate carving due to its fine grain. We specialize in creating custom stone features such as window surrounds, cornices, and more.

5. Installation
   Once dressed, the stone is ready for installation. Whether for walls, flooring, or decorative features, white lias provides a classic, timeless aesthetic.

Why Choose White Lias?

White lias stone is renowned for its strength and resistance to weathering, making it perfect for both interior and exterior uses.