When renovating a kitchen or bathroom, using natural stone
has become a popular trend. With many practical and aesthetic advantages,
choosing a natural stone can complement the overall design of a room while
providing a durable and functional surface that adds to the re-sale value of a
home. So what stone do you choose? There are many options including quartz,
granite and onyx – but the most valued and luxurious choice of them all is
marble. For countertops and other surfaces, people will often go with slabs
instead of tiles. This is because a slab will offer the most seamless and dramatic
finish for your design. When choosing a marble slab, Toronto buyers should
partner with an experienced dealer and learn all they can about the stone they
choose.
Marble is a popular choice for bathroom and kitchen floors
and countertops. It’s soft-looking and beautiful, thanks to its limestone
properties. Trace minerals, which are naturally trapped in the limestone, are
put under immense geological pressure, and the end result is a milky, veiny
pattern that streaks through the rich marble. Of course, this beauty comes at a
price and must be maintained to prevent wear and tear from leaving its mark. So,
how should you
take
care of your marble?
- Keep it clean! Use a neutral cleaner, mild liquid
dishwashing detergent or stone cleaner to maintain the health of your marble
slab.
- If used on floors, use a clean rag to mop up.
Use a soft cloth on other surfaces like mantles and accent pieces.
- Rinse the surface thoroughly with a soft rag and
ensure no residue is left on the marble.
- If used in showers, soap scum can have a lasting
effect on marble. Make sure you use a squeegee to get the remaining water
cleaned up.
- Avoid cleaning products with lemon, vinegar or
other acidic ingredients. This can dull or etch the stone. Many brands offer a
specific stone cleaning solution.
- Follow care instructions provided to you by your
natural stone dealer.
Sealing your marble slab is a must to prevent stains from
developing. While this does not make the stone stain-proof, it will reduce the likelihood
of stains to develop. This is particularly important to marble floors or
kitchen countertops.
Following these cleaning and care practices will help your
marble shine long after it has been installed. Dealers can help Toronto buyers
to understand both the properties of marble and how to take care of it, thus maintaining
a luxurious and soft look for years to come!