Marble starts out as a sediment – animal skeletons, shells, plant matter and silt – at the bottom of bodies of water.  After millions of years this solidifies into stone.  Because its main component is calcium, it can be affected by acids such as vinegar and citrus. Marble can have a huge variety of textures, colors and depths, depending on the temperature and pressure at which it was formed, as well as the minerals and moisture present.

Marble is a softer stone than granite so cutting directly on marble will cause it to scratch.  Using trivets, cutting boards and placemats under all ceramic and china will help protect the countertops from most scratches.  Marble is also acid sensitive, and when they come in contact with the marble countertops it will cause them to etch.  Etching is an instant chemical reaction so take special care not to have items that contain acid on marble tops.  Acidic items would include, citrus fruit, cosmetics, tomatoes, wine and other alcohols. Wipe up all spills immediately and only use cleaners specified for use on marble.

 

Marble is susceptible to all types of stains including water stains so be sure to always use coasters and placemats under all glasses and dishes.  To reduce staining always make sure your countertops are properly sealed and avoid leaving anything that has spilled on the countertop for any length of time.  Stains can be removed from marble countertops using a poultice.

 

Marble also has the potential to burn, so always use trivets and hot pads under all hot surfaces to protect the stone.

Granite-Tops has experience fabricating all types of natural stone including marble. Marble is an exceptionally beautiful natural stone that is elegant and distinctive. It is often characterized by it’s very unique colors. Visit our current marble inventory online.

Cleaning Marble Countertops
For daily cleaning use mild dish soap like Ivory®, warm water and a soft clean cloth. You can also use any water based spray cleaner such as clear vinegar formula Windex® or Natural Stone Cleaner 409® (as recommended by the Marble Institute of America).  If a film, smudges, or streaks develop, use vinegar diluted with water (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) and a soft clean cloth to remove it.

Sealing Marble Countertops
Your countertops have been sealed prior to installation.  It is recommended to seal marble top at least once a year.  Some marble may need sealing more often depending on the stone’s porosity and your daily use of the countertops.

To determine if your countertop needs resealing, perform a “water test”. Place some water onto your stone.  If within 15-20 minutes the water begins to absorb into the stone, it is time to reseal.  Wait for the water spot to evaporate before resealing.

A few granites and most marble, limestone, and travertine require an immediate application or multiple applications of sealer by the homeowner even though it has been sealed prior to installation. The natural porosity of these stones and its use in your home requires them to have more initial sealing.

Sealing works as a stain inhibitor and prevents most stains and soil from being absorbed into the surface, but it is NOT a guarantee against staining.To seal your granite countertops, we recommend the Stone Tech Professional Care System which is available through Stone Countertop Outlet. Other stone sealers are available through any stone/tile retail location.

General Sealing Instructions (always follow the directions provided with your product.)

1.    Be certain your countertops are clean and free of spills.  Stains should be removed prior to sealing.  You will need 3 clean, dry, soft cloths and stone sealer.

2.    Pour a small amount of sealer, about the size of the bottom of a pop can, onto the countertop and distribute evenly with a dry cloth.  Pour more sealer onto the stone as you move onto other areas of the surface.

3.    Allow the sealer to penetrate the stone for at least 15-30 minutes.  If the sealer is quickly soaked up by the stone, which is common with marble, limestone, travertine, and onyx, repeat step 2.

4.    Take another dry cloth and wipe the excess sealer off while it is still wet.  If the sealer is already dry, apply a bit more sealer and wipe it off.  This will remove any residue.

5.    Once all excess sealer is removed, use a clean dry cloth for a final wipe down.

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