When most homeowners consider a natural stone countertop, they think of granite. Though there are many advantages to using granite and other natural stone, such as slate, there are also alternatives, such as marble. Marble brings many of the same benefits of granite and slate, but it offers a unique and stylish look. Marble is not the most affordable countertop material, but it will last for decades, which makes it a great choice for those interested in a long-term investment. In addition, marble adds a lot of value to the home, which will bring more curb appeal when it comes time to sell.
Unlike other materials that create a uniform look throughout the room, marble has natural accents that make it a unique choice. These accents are swirls of color, which appear randomly, to accentuate the look of the stone. Some people may mistakenly believe that these accents are flaws in the stone, but they are actually seen as a way to emphasize the beauty of the stone. No two pieces of marble are the same because of these accents, and you will never find another slab that looks the same as yours.
The Price Of Marble Is Worth It
Natural stone countertops are high-end, luxury products, and if it looks like it will be expensive, it likely is. Marble countertops are not the most affordable option when choosing a countertop, but it is important to think of the purchase of these kitchen additions as an investment. Though these countertops will bring a lot of beauty into your home, as mentioned, they also bring a lot of value. The kitchen is the one place in the home where people spend the most time, so it is a great selling point when it comes to real estate transactions. The two most important aspects of a kitchen that potential homeowners look at are the cabinets and the countertop. Since marble has a higher price than other materials, it may not be feasible for all homeowners. However, it is still possible to use marble in the home as a highlight. Consider a wet bar, install it on a kitchen island, or choose it as an inset, so all of the benefits of marble can be experienced without all of the cost.
Cultured Marble
Another option for those love the look of marble, but not the price, is cultured marble. This is a product that is made of a mixture of plastic and marble dust. It is not true marble and is partially made by man, but it is also less expensive and comes with the same look as natural marble. Also, a cultured marble countertop is lighter than natural marble, it is easy to install, and the plastic in cultured marble helps it to be durable against cracking and damage.
Maintaining Marble In The Home
Marble is a very strong and durable material that can hold up to typical kitchen traffic, wear and tear. However, it is not an indestructible material, and it does require some care to protect it for the long term. For example, marble is a porous material, like all natural stone, and it will absorb liquids if they are allowed to sit on the surface for too long. So, to prevent water rings on the marble, it is important to use coasters and placemats. If there is a spill, it is also important to clean it up immediately by blotting instead of wiping it.
When cutting on marble, it is important to use a cutting board, as it may scratch, and it can dull knives if they are used against the surface. Trivets or hot pads must also be used, as you don’t want to damage the surface of the marble with a hot pan, pot or skillet. Marble, like all natural stone, is susceptible to acid, as they may dull the surface, so any acidic foods, such as coffee, wine or orange juice, must be cleaned up immediately.
Fortunately, marble is extremely easy to clean, and all it requires is a soft cloth, hot water and mild soap. Of course, make sure that you dry the surface following cleaning with a towel. There are cleaning materials on the market, too, which are specifically made to clean natural stone, just do not choose any cleaning materials with harmful chemicals. If a problem with the marble does occur, there is usually a solution. For instance, scratches can be buffed out in many cases, but you will have to contact a trained professional to do so.
Marble is a gorgeous, durable and unique addition to any home. It adds value, beauty and curb appeal, and it matches almost any kitchen decor. Though marble is a high-end countertop option, there are ways to make it affordable to most homeowners. Contact a marble supplier today to learn more about marble, and find out if it is the right choice for your home.