The new "in” material for kitchen countertops is the beautiful and elegant marble slab. Marble has been associated with fine art and architect-ure through the ages, from the Taj Mahal to Michelangelo’s David, from the Parthenon to Rodin’s The Kiss. If you want your home to have an air of luxury and sophistication, nothing but marble will do! However, marble does have some drawbacks. This article will examine the advantages and disadvantages of installing a marble countertop.

 

• Appearance. The number one advantage of marble is the way that it looks. Marble is a gorgeous natural stone. It catches and reflects light in a way that synthetic materials simply cannot, and each piece of marble is completely unique. Marble is available in every colour of the rainbow, as well as in classic neutral tones. Patterning ranges from subtle flecks to dramatic designs. Granite, another popular natural stone choice has many of the same advantages, but if you’re seeking the classic look of bright white stone, only marble will deliver.
• Luxury. Marble is the high-end interior design material. If you want the best for your home, you want marble. Only marble has that highly polished sheen that we associate with opulence and grandeur.
• Adds value. Although marble requires an initial investment, natural stone elements add value to the resale price of your home. A recent survey noted that the two most desirable interior design elements for prospective homebuyers are hardwood floors and stone countertops.

Disadvantages of Marble

• Scratches. Marble is softer than granite or other types of surfaces, and it can scratch. Marks on your countertop may be unacceptable to you, or you may take them in stride as part of your marble’s natural patina. One way to minimize the appearance of scratches on marble is to opt for a honed (or matte) finish rather than a high polish.
• Stains. Acidic foods and beverages such as vinegar, tomatoes, red wine, or coffee can "etch” the surface of your countertop if they’re not wiped away quickly. Even non-acidic substances can leave a mark on marble if the seal is not properly cared for. Again, some people want their countertop surface to remain perfect, while others feel that an occasional mark is all part of life.
• Maintenance. Because it’s natural stone, marble needs to be resealed on a regular basis. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the counter. If the drops bead, your counter is fine, but you will know your countertop needs resealing when the drops spread or sink into the stone. Fortunately, the resealing process is simple and takes less than an hour. Just clean the surface of the counter, and then apply a sealant. Leave it for about fifteen minutes and then wipe it off.

Ultimately, choosing marble as opposed to another type of countertop material comes down to your own personal preferences and your lifestyle. Some people are put off by the idea of having to reseal the surface; others are irresistibly drawn to marble’s beauty.

 

Visit a Toronto stone supplier today, and learn more about marble and other natural stone products.