There are many natural stone countertops from which to choose, and selecting the right one for you may be tough. If marble is what you’re thinking about, here are some benefits and drawbacks to help with your choice.
Marble Is Versatile And Beautiful
Most people choose marble installation for their kitchen or bathroom countertops because it creates a beautiful focal point in any room. Obviously, the cost of marble varies depending on the uniqueness and rarity of the color. However, there is no debate that the right piece of marble can be stunning. In addition, it is easy to find a style of marble that complements other design elements in your home. This versatility and neutrality make Marble a popular choice among homeowners when choosing new countertops.
Marble Is Heat-Resistant
Even though marble is heat-resistant, it’s still not recommended to leave hot pots and pans directly on the surface. Do not place cookie sheets, or other abrasive items as this could damage the finish. If you do accidentally place a hot pot or pan on your counter and want to remove any potential marks, you can use a poultice.
Marble Is Porous And Soft
Although marble is technically classified as a stone, it is significantly softer than other types of stones. Furthermore, marble contains pores which make it more susceptible to damage and staining. If neglected, quickly-acting acids like tomato or lemon juice can ruin marble countertops. Even wine can permanently stain marble if left unattended, and belt buckles or chunky jewelry leaving scratches where they make contact. Although highly recommended, regularly cleaning, polishing, and sealing won’t stop physical damage from neglect or inattention.
Marble Stains Easily
There are a few reasons why marble might not be the best choice for your home. First, it is a porous material, which means that it can easily become stained. If you’re not willing to regularly clean and maintain your marble surfaces, or if you’re simply lazy, then honing the marble may be a better option. Honed marble will have more of a matte finish rather than the shiny look most people want; however, it will also make stains and scratches less visible.
However, even if you take care of it well, marble will need to be sealed at least every six months. This is mostly because porous stones are absorbent and will slowly break down when exposed to various liquids and ingredients over time.
Marble Can Be as Affordable or as Expensive as a Budget Permits
A lot of people believe that marble is a luxurious building material that only the wealthiest can afford. While in some situations that may be accurate, there are also more down to earth options that aren’t out of reach for the average person.
The main factor that determines both the cost and desirability of marble is the quality of its veining. This is what makes marble stand out from many other types of natural stone, and it is usually why people choose marble in the first place. If you want a piece with pronounced veining, be prepared to spend more than someone who just wants a simple slab for their kitchen or bathroom.
If you need help deciding on your next step with your kitchen remodel, or you are in need of a new countertop surface, give Earth Art Kitchen & Bath a call. Let us help you get closer to your dream kitchen! Contact Us HERE