Nothing says “classy” like marble countertops. Marble allows your kitchen to have a clean, timeless look. But before you decide to upgrade your kitchen with marble, here’s everything you need to know about marble countertops.
Marble is High-Maintenance.
Can your countertops be high maintenance? Yes, especially if they are marble. Marble is very porous, making it vulnerable to stains (I’m looking at you, red wine). But even oil and juice can damage your marble countertops. The liquid sinks deep into the countertops, making it hard to remove.
But never fear! There is a solution to having your red wine and your marble countertops. Getting your counter sealed every six months to a year (professionally, or you will risk damaging the marble), prevents liquids from damaging your counters.
Marble Scratches Easily.
Every counter gets scratched, but marble is a softer stone. Your marble countertops are far more likely to get scratched than granite counters. This leaves your marble vulnerable to scratches and chips you may not have seen on your granite. To avoid scratches, avoid wearing belts and long necklaces when at your counter, and always cut acidic things on a cutting board. Exposure to acid can also wear down marble’s finish and your sealant.
It Can Be More Cost-Effective – Depending on the Marble.
Did you know that there are different types of marble? If you are looking for an aesthetically pleasing kitchen with the crisp white marble holding the dramatic veins throughout it, you are searching for Calacatta marble – a rare and luxurious stone with a hefty price tag. However, if you are looking for a soft gray marble with more subtle veins, you are searching for Carrara marble (appropriately named, as it is from Carrara, Italy), one of the most affordable, natural countertop materials.
Marble is Heat-Resistant but Proceed with Caution.
That’s right! Marble countertops can help you beat the heat in summer by staying cool to the touch. The stone is heat resistant and can help you to stay cool. But that doesn’t mean they can’t get burnt. Though marble can withstand high temperatures, hot pots tend to burn marble (and other stones) and cause discoloration. It is recommended to use a potholder – even if your countertops are heat-resistant.
Cleaning is More Than a Simple Wipe Down.
To properly clean your marble, you need to apply a couple of drops of mild dish soap to a sponge (on the soft side) and scrub vigorously until you have a nice lather. After you scrub, you buff your counters dry using a rag or a rinsed-off sponge. Remember – marble is porous, so you want to make sure that you take the time to do a good job when you clean your marble.
If you are interested in new countertops and are considering marble, contact C and C Stoneworks at (252) 902-5535 today! We are happy to show you options and help you get the countertops of your dreams.
