Marble is a highly sought-after material that adds elegance and sophistication to your home. However, it is a costly option that requires extra care to preserve its beauty and functionality.
If you accidentally spill something on marble, be aware that it is a porous stone that can rapidly absorb liquids. It also can stain easily, particularly with acidic substances like lemon juice and vinegar.
Versatility
Marble is a beautiful and timeless material. Even though it is a luxury product, many more affordable choices of solid surface materials mimic the look of marble.
Marble countertops stay cool naturally, which makes it a popular choice for bakers. It is also heat resistant but not entirely, so it’s best to use a trivet when placing hot pans.
It is less durable than granite or other counter options and can easily get scratched, but regular upkeep and resealing can mitigate this. It is also a soft material and can be susceptible to etching, which happens when acidic substances come in contact with it. This can dull and damage the appearance of the countertop. However, a lot of this can be prevented by using a good quality sealer and taking extra care with cleaning up spills immediately.
Durability
Marble countertops are durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of a busy kitchen. They are heat-resistant and will not crack easily, making them a smart choice for a high-traffic area.
However, marble is softer or more porous than other countertop materials, making it susceptible to stains. If you must be more diligent about spilling wine, tomato sauce, or other acidic substances promptly, they can leave unsightly marks on your pristine countertops. Keeping your marble countertops Wexford PA, sealed regularly (usually annually, but more frequently if you are an avid cook) mitigates this issue.
A well-maintained marble countertop will add value to your home despite the added maintenance. Potential homebuyers will see this as a desirable feature, which could increase the resale price of your home.
Heat Resistance
Marble is naturally resistant to high heat, making it an excellent kitchen choice. These countertops can withstand hot pans and dishes, allowing you to cook confidently.
However, it’s important to note that marble can become etched or stained by acidic materials like wine, juice, and coffee if not correctly sealed. You should wipe up spills as soon as they happen and consider having your countertops professionally sealed every six months to prevent staining.
Despite this, many homeowners love the look of natural stone in their kitchen and often use a trivet or potholder to protect the countertops from damage. This is an excellent way to keep your countertops in good condition and increase their value over time.
Aesthetics
Marble countertops offer a classic appearance that can stand the test of time. They are also a natural, neutral color that will match any kitchen style.
However, marble isn’t impervious to damage and stains like any countertop material. It’s a porous substance that quickly absorbs liquids, so spills should be cleaned up promptly to avoid stains. Also, marble is prone to etching from exposure to acidic substances.
Although it may not be as durable as granite, marble can still last a lifetime when properly maintained. Using a high-quality sealer can help minimize staining and etching while taking precautions to avoid dropping or sliding heavy pots can keep your marble looking its best. Moreover, if you prefer a less costly option, cultured marble can provide similar benefits at a lower price.
Low Maintenance
While marble countertops add to a home’s resale value, they require more maintenance than other countertop options. This is due to their natural porosity, allowing spills and stains to set in quickly.
When paired with coasters and placemats, you can help reduce the likelihood of staining. It would help to clean up any spills or crumbs promptly and frequently wipe down your counters.
If you love the look of marble but don’t want to deal with the maintenance, you can opt for a cultured marble countertop. This option uses crushed marble combined with a thermoplastic resin to provide a nonporous surface that will reduce the likelihood of staining. This material is more affordable than marble and will still add value to your home.
