The kitchen is the place where people prepare hearty meals for their loved ones. It is a place in the home where nourishment and appetite is built and needs to be built with materials that will last a lifetime. And one of its most important parts is the countertop, where all the preparation and culinary artwork is done. With this, a countertop must be strong, durable, beautiful, and dependable at all times that is why most homeowners spend thousands of dollars just to get it done.
But sadly, one material gets left behind as an option for kitchen countertops, and that is a marble. Marble is one of the most beautiful natural stones in the world and has been used by many people for years as a countertop material. And honestly, having marble kitchen countertops are really amazing because it emanates its beauty all over the kitchen, bringing harmony within the cooking workplace. Regrettably, some people still believe that it is not a good idea to use marble as kitchen countertops and here’s why
Stain Prone
Marble countertops actually stain prone because it is a porous material. It tends to absorb stains over time if not maintained properly.
Less Durable than other stones
Marble is known as a soft stone and is popularly used for sculpting. It is prone to dents and scratches if not taken care of properly.
More Expensive
Finally, one main reason why people do not use it for the kitchen is that it is more expensive than other stones, making it a big deal with people who are in a budget.
But here’s the thing, its ok if you are not going to use marble for your kitchen countertop, but, and that is a very big BUT, it is without a doubt, 100% fine if you choose to! The key to this is maintenance, diligent and committed maintenance, and with this, you will be able to ensure that your kitchen marble countertops are always clean, stain and dent free. Here are some advice in how to keep your marble countertops in top shape and always glittering with beauty.
Seal! Seal! Seal!
First is that you should have it sealed regularly. Remember that grease, oils, and other acidic substances that you use for cooking and cleaning may seep through small unsealed areas of your marble kitchen countertop. That is why it is always best to have it sealed on a daily basis. Check the whole area regularly, or every two months, to see if sealants are starting to break off and leave areas unprotected.
Stains: wipe them off ASAP
Remember that marble is a porous material that is why it is much prone to stains than other stones, that is why it is necessary to wipe any spilled liquid as soon as possible in order to maintain its beauty. Acidic substances found in liquid may cause your countertop to fade while oils and other oil based products may be absorbed, causing hard to remove stains. If you work diligently on this, you will avoid future headaches.
Boards, Coasters and Pads
The key in maintaining a scratch and dent free kitchen marble countertop is to use protective kitchenware such as coasters, cutting boards and heat pads. This will protect your countertop from accidental dents, scratches and scorches. I for one have heat pads and boards at the ready when I cook because I know that I am using a delicate stone which requires care and commitment. Always think about prevention first as the solution.
Watch the pH and texture
Finally, you can switch to less acidic substances and smoother tools for cleaning your kitchen marble countertop. In this way, you can avoid unwanted scratches and dents as well as fading and etching. Always ask or look at the label of any product before buying it to ensure that it isn’t too acidic or too rough for cleaning your marble kitchen countertop.
Marble countertops for kitchen, for me, are still the best choice in pumping up the looks of your kitchen. That is why you need to know the types of marble kitchen countertops available in the market so that if ever you are ready to make the switch, you will know the type that you want and need. I personally recommend white marble countertops because it really brings out the potential of a kitchen to be considered a work of art.
Types of Marble:
Carrara Marble
Of the marble variants, Carrara marble is the more, let’s say, budget friendly. It has less articulation in the veining patterns and seem to be more uniform in appearance. Remember that for each slab of marble, there is a unique pattern, that is why they are so beautiful. If you want marble on a budget, try this type.
Calacatta Marble
The Calacatta marble contains a broader definition of veiny patterns and has more sophistication in its design and appearance. It is more expensive than the Carrara marble and is considered to be a favorite in the kitchen marble countertop industry. This type of marble is great if your kitchen is near a fireplace or terrace and will make it look luxurious and beautiful.
Now that you know the types, here are some tips before you make the switch to kitchen marble countertops:
Make a budget plan
Marble is expensive that is why you need to know if you have the right amount of money to purchase it. I suggest that you don’t rush your switch and just save up enough money so that you won’t be worrying about the bills in the future.
Make sure you are committed
Maintaining marble countertops for kitchens require tedious work. Make sure that you are ready to clean and maintain.
Consult a Professional contractor
Consulting a professional contractor will give you the assurance that your marble countertop will be installed properly. This will avoid any unwanted mistakes that is often committed in DIYs.
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