Historic project · Arundel, West Sussex
Arundel Cathedral Limestone Floor Restoration
Approximately 800 m² of historic limestone flooring carefully tested, deep cleaned, diamond honed, polished and sealed while the cathedral remained open to visitors.
The project
A carefully planned restoration for a landmark interior
Floor Polishing Services was invited by Arundel Cathedral's lead architects to assess approximately 800 square metres of historic limestone flooring and recommend an appropriate restoration programme.
No treatment specification had been supplied. We therefore carried out condition assessment and test cleaning before producing a report that set out the floor's condition, the limitations we had identified and our recommended cleaning, honing, polishing and sealing sequence.
Following the tender process, the work was awarded under a JCT Minor Building Works contract. A programme and health and safety file were agreed before restoration began.
The condition
145 years of use required more than routine cleaning
The limestone had become dull, discoloured and heavily marked after generations of use. Candle wax and ingrained soil had built up in areas with substantial pedestrian traffic.
The floor required a careful approach. Several site visits and test cleans were completed to identify a method capable of improving the contamination without causing avoidable damage or stripping away the character of the historic surface.
- Accumulated candle wax requiring controlled manual removal
- Heavy ingrained dirt and staining across busy routes
- Dull areas, etch marks and an uneven appearance
- Sensitive historic stone requiring staged testing
- A public building that needed to remain open
The restoration process
Six carefully controlled stages
A five-person team worked over four weeks. The cathedral was divided into six sections so each area could be protected and completed while visitors continued to use alternative routes through the building.
Protect and phase
Benches were moved, working sections were secured and clear warning and alternative-route signs were installed.
Remove candle wax
Accumulated candle wax was manually removed with care before the principal cleaning treatment began.
Deep clean
Tested mechanical and appropriate chemical methods were used to lift heavy ingrained dirt and contamination.
Diamond hone
Progressive diamond honing reduced suitable etch marks and stains while refining the floor's appearance.
Polish
The limestone was professionally polished to create a more even finish appropriate to the building and stone.
Seal and hand over
A suitable limestone sealer was applied before each completed section was checked and returned to use.
Working in a public cathedral
Phased to protect the floor and reduce disruption
The cathedral remained open throughout the project. Dividing the floor into six sections made it possible to protect active work zones, redirect visitors and return completed areas to use in a controlled sequence.
The programme was supported by agreed health and safety documentation, site controls and communication with the professional team and cathedral representatives.
Genuine project photographs
Historic limestone restoration at Arundel Cathedral
These photographs show the real cathedral project, including work zones, the limestone surface during treatment and the restored finish.
The outcome
A cleaner and more consistent finish that respects the building
The completed programme removed the accumulated candle wax and heavy contamination, improved suitable stains and etch marks through progressive honing, and restored a more even polished appearance across the cathedral floor.
The project demonstrated how testing, phased access and a treatment designed for the stone can make a substantial improvement while retaining the age and character expected of historic limestone.
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Frequently asked questions
Can very old limestone floors be restored?
Many historic limestone floors can be substantially improved through careful testing, deep cleaning, appropriate stain treatment and progressive diamond honing. The method must be selected for the stone's condition, previous treatments and the character that should be retained.
How is candle wax removed from limestone flooring?
Candle wax should be removed with a controlled method chosen after testing. On this project, accumulated wax was manually removed before the floor was deep cleaned and assessed for the next restoration stages.
Can limestone restoration be phased while a building remains open?
Yes, where the building, programme and safety requirements allow it. The Arundel Cathedral floor was divided into six sections so work could progress while alternative visitor routes and protected work areas were maintained.
Does a restored limestone floor need sealing?
A suitable limestone sealer may be applied after cleaning, honing and polishing to help protect the restored surface. The product and finish should be selected for the stone, its condition and how the floor is used.
Does your limestone floor need specialist assessment?
Send clear photographs, the approximate floor area, your location and a description of the condition. We will review the information and explain the most suitable next step.