What comes to mind when thinking of marble? Perhaps it is the Elgin Marbles, the great works by the ancient Greeks. Perhaps it is Michelangelo’s transcendent sculpture of David or the opulent architecture of the Taj Mahal. Perhaps it is the brightness and warmth of a marble floor or the elegance of a marble column. More and more homeowners want that unique marble touch in their own homes, seeking the feeling of permanence and flair that marble can bring to a room. Here’s what Toronto homeowners need to know about choosing marble slabs in the GTA before they purchase.

 

 

Marble is limestone that, over thousands of years, has metamorphosed into carbonate crystals. The distinctive veins in marble are due to different mineral "impurities” such as layers of clay. Some of the most beautiful marble comes from the quarries of Italy, such as the classic white Carrara marble. Marble also comes from Greece, Russia, Sweden, Germany, Ireland, India and parts of the United States. Where it comes from, its rarity, and how difficult it is to extract from the quarry are all factors that will affect the price.

 

 

Natural stone, like marble, can make a statement in a room, but you will want to think carefully about how it is placed and what you are going to use it for. Although very durable and easy to care for, marble is a porous stone, so it shouldn’t be used in high-traffic or high-usage areas. It is perfectly suited to bathrooms, around fireplaces or as a signature top for a table. While it’s not recommended as a kitchen countertop, it’s a terrific choice for an island or a partial inlay for making pastries; choosy chefs love working with its cool surface. Marble also ages well, with a lovely warm patina.

 

• Look at samples, but choose the slab yourself. Samples give a rough idea of colour and patterns – but remember, with natural stone, every slab is different. Once you know the required dimensions, make sure you look at the exact slab you will be purchasing.
• Don’t go with the most inexpensive estimate. Go for quality. Marble is going to last for generations; you don’t want an inferior, thin piece that’s prone to breaking. Find a reputable dealer that specializes in natural stone.
• Your marble will need to be sealed and resealed at least once a year. Martha Stewart  warns that some sealants may darken white pieces, so be sure to test the sealant on an out of the way spot.

Working with a Fabricator

 

Once you have decided which kind of marble you want and where you are going to use it, it’s time to bring in a fabricator. Most likely, your contractor or designer will have a fabricator they like to work with. The fabricator is an expert in dealing with natural stone. The fabricator will know how to get the most out of your marble slab: how to cut, match, edge, finish and install your piece.

 

Marble adds so much to a room. Finding the perfect marble slabs to purchase for your GTA home is part of the fun.