Marble Counter Tops

Marble Countertops

Like granite, marble is a natural stone and exists throughout the world. When polished and fabricated, marble is brilliantly beautiful. Unlike granite which has a "sprinkled pattern", marble features an "elegant swirled pattern". Both natural stones create a gorgeous upscale appeal when used as a kitchen or bathroom countertop. Marble also makes a royal statement as a floor tile.

It is important to note that although granite and marble share similar traits of beauty and durability, marble is softer, more porous and is more vulnerable to scratching and staining versus granite. Marble is also less resistant to heat. It is therefore less practical as a kitchen counter top and more suitable as a bathroom vanity countertop.

Marble is A Natural Piece of Art.

Marble quarries exist in almost all areas of the world. Hardness, patterns and color vary depending upon the quarry. Italian and Chinese variations are among the most prized, and usually the most expensive. No two slabs of marble will ever be identical in pattern although slabs cut from the same block of marble will have a similar and complementing pattern and color. Each piece is therefore considered a unique piece of art, so your marble counter top will aways be unique unto itself. Be assured that regardless of quarry source, marble adds an elegance that will impress.

Strength and Durability of Marble.

When marble is properly sealed and maintained, it will sustain its brilliance for a lifetime. That's what makes it long-lasting investment. In fact, ancient civilizations used marble in statues and architecture that is still standing today.

Marble is resistant to scratching, but it will scratch if abused. Although it is hard, it is porous and susceptible to staining. That's why it must be properly sealed not only after installation, but resealed at least annually.

Although marble is fireproof and heat resistant, extreme heat from hot pots and pans can damage the countertop surface. Always use a mat placed between the hot object and the marble surface. Extreme heat can discolor the marble and the only option may be to replace the countertop.

Marble is a very hard stone so it would take a great deal of force to break or crack. However, since marble is an expensive investment, one should always be careful. Occasionally the sealant should be stripped and re-sealed by a trained professional. When properly maintained, marble will last almost forever.

Fabricating and Installing Marble Countertops.

Unless you are skilled and well-experienced in installing marble counters, it is not a do-it-yourself project. Slabs of marble are costly and if you expect an installation that is a mark of elegance and distinction, hire a licensed and skilled marble counter top installer. Kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities must be reinforced to carry the weight of marble. The size of a marble slab must be considered to minimize the joining seams. Your style of sinks, faucets, cooktops and similar must be identified to insure the accuracy of cutouts and hole drilling.

A knowledgeable marble countertop contractor will help preplan the project to conserve costs while attaining superior results. Visit a countertop showroom to view example installations and sample marble slabs. An interior designer that specializes in designing kitchens and bathrooms can not only help conceive a proper design but can point-out all factors that must be considered before beginning the project.

Cost of Marble Countertops.

A turnkey cost of a marble counter including marble slab, fabrication and installation is similar to that of granite which can cost from about $60 to well over $100 per square foot. Quarry source of the marble, thickness of the slab, shape of the counter, and number of precision cuts will impact final cost.

Sealing and Caring For Marble.

Marble must be sealed by the contractor at original installation and should be resealed at least once annually by a professional. Marble is porous and once the seal has worn- off, it is more susceptible to scratching and staining.

Exercise proper care by wiping spills immediately. Particularly spills from acidic liquids because they will etch into the surface. As added insurance, use protective mats and coasters when setting beverages and cooking ingredients on the surface. Cleaning is easy. Wipe the counter top with lukewarm water with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. A damp chamois is ideal.

Over time a marble top can become dull. By applying a coat of colorless wax on darker hues of marble, luster will return and the wax will help prevent staining. Do not use wax on white marble. It has a tendency to cause yellowing. There are commercial marble cleaners available. Ask your installer contractor for recommendations. Deep scratches and embedded stains may require the services of a professional to restore its original luster and brilliance.

Related Information.

Marble Countertop Contractors