If you’re thinking of revamping your kitchen and going for a classic white look, you’ll want to consider marble countertops, which feature gorgeous veining, light colors, and gorgeous aesthetics. However, even with their undeniable appeal, these countertops are regarded as high maintenance since marble is a calcium-based stone. Since it is softer, it is more prone to scratches and marks, which means you’ll have to protect your marble countertops and keep them as breathtaking as when they were first installed.
The great news is that you can still enjoy preserving the aesthetic of your marble countertop while carrying out regular processes in your kitchen. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining your marble countertops:
Preventing Stains and Marks
Once marble touches anything acidic, it etches, which resembles a burn mark or dull spot. A kitchen is full of acidic products like citrus fruits, juices, alcohol, tomatoes, and vinegar. Red wine and oil can also stain marble if they aren’t wiped immediately. However, the acids in wine can result in etches on your marble countertop. Luckily, you can pull most stains out of your countertop during restoration.
An easy way to prevent stains and etches on your countertops is by using cutting boards, coasters, and trivets each time you prepare food. It’s best to have large cutting boards, like 20 by 20-inch ones, and place one next to the sink and another next to the stove to catch all the splashing and possible stains from the products you use. It is also vital to clean marble countertops every day using a mild soap or stone cleaner. Be sure to read the product label carefully to ensure it won’t hurt your countertops.
Sealing Your Marble Countertops
To keep your marble countertops looking good as new, you’ll need to seal it regularly, though how often you should do it varies. Some sealers last more than ten years, while others last only six months. Regardless, it’s a preventative step that may not stop severe etching or staining, but it will undoubtedly prevent most marks.
A high-quality sealer will penetrate the stone beneath the surface, preventing stains from reaching that same depth. These sealers are meant to last 15 to 20 years, but it’s best to consult a local marble countertop expert to determine the best course of action for your countertops.
You can also test your stone to determine if it needs sealing by adding a few drops of water onto the countertop and observing them while they sit. If a dark spot remains, the water has effectively soaked the stone, which means your countertops need to be sealed. Luckily, you can use topical coatings to protect your marble countertops from etches and stains.
Eventually, you’ll also need to refinish and reseal them, depending on how much damage you’re willing to tolerate. Etching tends to be more noticeable on polished marble than textured or honed marble, which is the more practical option. Polished marble typically needs refinishing once every two to three years, while honed marble needs refinishing once every three to five years.
Conclusion
Marble is a beautiful material that adds class, elegance, and luxury to your kitchen. However, to keep it looking new and perfect, you’ll need to devote proper care and attention to it, such as using cutting boards when preparing food and sealing it when required. By following our guide, you’ll have marble countertops that look spectacular for a long time!
If you’re looking for marble countertops in Birmingham, AL, let us know at Cutstone Company. We are a marble supplier specializing in custom kitchen countertops made from granite, quartzite, soapstone, marble, onyx, travertine, and limestone. Contact us today to find out how else we can transform your kitchen!
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