Today’s countertops play a demanding role. The site of all food preparation, countertops are expected to be durable and beautiful. No wonder choosing a countertop material is such a daunting decision.

 

Marble slab for Toronto countertops is a classic choice and an investment that will give you many years of beautiful service.

 

 

Marble is a long-lasting stone that provides an elegant look. The reason marble remains in heavy demand for countertops are because of its good looks.

 

While marble is waterproof and heat proof, it is made of carbonate materials that are reactive with acids like those found in coffee, fruit juice, soda, salad dressing, and alcohol. If marble comes into contact with acid, etching will happen – a process that breaks down the polish and leaves a dull, lightly coloured spot in the stone. Here are more considerations from houzz.com to see if marble is right for you.

 

 

Purchasing marble slab can be a time-consuming and complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be with a little planning. Advanced preparation and research are important for making the process hassle-free. Before starting the selection process, consider these tips:

• Research. With so many choices available, entering the warehouse with a rough idea of the colour and the amount of pattern you are after will make the process faster and more focused. Marble comes in a range of tones, including white, neutral, gold, orange, green, red, brown, grey, and black.
• Know size specifications. Marble is purchased in slabs that are already finished and cut to a certain thickness. Most slabs are 0.75 to 1.25 inches thick, though thicker cuts are available. That said, those wanting an extra-wide counter are often advised to laminate the edge of the slab with a piece of marble to achieve the thick look, meanwhile keeping the cost and weight under control.
• Pricing. Marble slabs are not affixed with price tags. Many suppliers have price bands that will help you narrow your search. Final pricing is typically worked out through your fabricator working with the supplier.

How to Preserve Marble’s Magnificence

 

Because of marble’s porous nature and vulnerability to acids, sealing marble used for countertops is a must. However, even with a sealer, the stone will absorb stains over time and develop a patina – which many people actually like. There are two types of sealants: topical and penetrating.

• Topical sealant: A surface coating covering the stone, topical sealant can slightly alter the look of the marble, but it provides some protection against acid etching.
• Penetrating Sealant: True to its name, this sealant seeps into the pores of the marble and is the option most stone suppliers recommend for kitchen counters. Penetrating sealants help limit stains by keeping liquids such as oil, wine, and coffee from soaking into the surface. Penetrating sealants add a level of water and stain resistance, buying time to clean away stain-causing materials, but the sealant does not make the surface waterproof. Penetrating stone sealants also don't protect against damage from acidic liquids.

Marble slab is a classic choice that creates a luxurious surface that lends warmth and sophistication in Toronto homes.