Home improvement shows, lifestyle magazines, and even Pinterest are emblazoned with gorgeous kitchens replete with stunning marble countertops. This elegant stone is considered one of nature’s finest specimens. However, before you decide to purchase a slab, there are a few things you should consider.

Maintenance

Each slab of marble is unique, similar to a fingerprint created by the Earth. It’s stunning vein patterns create a distinctive and timeless stone that can grace your kitchen for years to come, no matter how many times you update the cabinetry and walls.

Unfortunately, this surface is not considered a wipe-and-go countertop. Like many of the finer things in life, marble requires cleaning and care in order to maintain its alluring nature. The first step is to have the surface professionally sealed upon installation, this will help prevent discoloration.

You should reseal the surface every six to twelve months depending on how frequently you use your kitchen. In between coats of sealant a marble countertop is easy to clean with either a specifically formulated marble cleaner or non-abrasive dish soap and warm water. If your marble is installed by a professional, and regularly sealed, then it should easily last you a lifetime.

The upkeep required for marble countertops is truly no more than would be required of you for countertops crafted from another material. You can think of it as protecting your investment, a focal point in your breathtaking kitchen.

Scratch Resistance

For being one of Mother Nature’s finest pieces of craftsmanship, marble can be delicate. Marble is softer than other leading countertop surfaces, namely granite. It can suffer from wear and tear due to chopping, acidic erosion from foods, and even being brushed repeatedly by your belt buckle as you lean against the counter.

But don’t be dismayed, protecting your counter is easy enough! You should save all of your chopping and cutting, especially with acidic foods like lemons, for a butcher’s block or other cutting surface. You will want to avoid dragging items such as pots or pans across your surface as well. Inexpensive protective mats and sealers may also help your countertop to retain its beauty.

After all, some of the world’s most ancient buildings were constructed from marble and are still standing today. Carrara, the most recognizable type of marble, is a brilliant white and was used by Michelangelo. However, marble also can be found in shades of charcoal, rose, cream, and green depending on where it originated from.

Another option you may want to consider is honing your countertops. Honing refers to buffing your countertops to remove imperfections and create a smooth surface. This results in a matte finish which is considered modern and trendy in many of today’s kitchens.

A Porous Surface

Marble is soft and porous, making it susceptible to stains. Things like red wine, sauces, and oil can seep into your countertop resulting in discoloration. There is nothing like a dollop of spaghetti sauce to ruin your countertops classic good looks.

You will want to simply wipe up any spills as soon as they happen, as is typical of kitchen etiquette. Again, sealants and protective mats or cutting boards can help to keep harsh liquids away from your marble countertop.

If you do suffer a stain, don’t panic. A poultice may be able to help clear things up. You can create a homemade version from powder chalk, baking soda, or white flour. Pre-made poultices are also sold in home improvement stores. Just apply the paste to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, seal with painter’s tape, and let it dry overnight. After twelve to twenty-four hours remove the paste and clean with a damp cloth to reveal your renewed countertop.

Over time, your marble may sustain a few slight blemishes. However, this tells the story of time well spent in the heart of the home. Marble can be considered a living surface, developing character with each use.

An Attractive Addition to Any Kitchen

Marble countertops at www.marble.com make the perfect addition to any cook’s kitchen, consider them your ideal co-chef! They stay cool even during the warmest temperatures so you won’t have to worry about your chilled dough softening or the countertop conducting heat.

With such inconsequential and easy to remedy cons it would be a shame not to add this elegant, affordable, and obtainable natural stone to your kitchen.