What is Marble?
Home interior specialists have made marble the trending stone of the 2020s. However, long before that, many cultures used it to create monumental structures that have withstood the elements. You can share in the beauty of the Taj Mahal and the Pantheon, as the polished beauty of marble brings a timeless elegance to your home.
A natural stone, marble arrives from quarries in slabs. Manufacturers cut slabs to fit your specific needs, and finishing touches are applied. Lastly, the manufacturer seals the countertops to prevent scratches and stains.
What are the Pros of Marble?
- It is relatively easy to clean and maintain. If you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, your countertops will remain permanently pristine.
- You can choose from various colors, so you are sure to find an option that fits your expectations. You can also choose a variety of finishes, depending on the location.
- Stately polish, which gleams and reflects the light.
- Honed, which camouflages scratches.
- Leather, which reveals the depth of the marble’s natural color.
- Sandblasted, which creates a weathered look.
- Marble adds value to your home.
- The surface remains naturally cool, making it a fantastic option for home bakers.
What are the Cons of Marble?
- Unlike granite, marble is relatively porous. Its porosity means that acidic liquids and water can stain it. (Thankfully, if you follow the care and maintenance instructions, you can avoid this.)
- While marble is naturally cool, you don’t want to place hot pots and pans on it.
- Marble can be prone to scratching, but if you select a honed finish, the scratches will be less noticeable.
How to Care and Maintain Marble
- Use mild soap and water to clean your marble countertops daily.
- Apply a marble polish every three to six months. Careful re-sealing of marble keeps it from staining.
- Use coasters if your drink is acidic and clean spills quickly.
- Avoid spilling oil on your marble countertops.
- Never use harsh cleaners because these impact the sealant.
- Never cut foods on marble countertops as this can scratch the surface.
- If you do happen to stain your countertop, apply a baking soda paste over the stain, cover the paste with plastic and allow it to dry for at least twenty-four hours. Clean as usual with soap and water. (Note: Sometimes, it may take several applications of paste for the stain to be fully rectified.)
The Best Uses of Marble
- Because marble naturally enhances the light of your home, you can use it to make small rooms look more prominent.
- Utilize it in bathrooms and kitchens. It also adds a luxurious touch to your family room when added to your fireplace.
