Marbles are made up primarily of calcite crystal. Due to their mineralogical makeup, all marbles are vulnerable to either abrasion or chemical attack. Scratching could occur from common kitchen utensils. Lemon juice, tomatoes, vinegar, and any other acidic solutions will etch the surface, removing the polish of the stone. Although red wine is the most commonly feared liquid near a kitchen, foods that have both acidic and oily qualities are usually more harmful because the oil acts as a carrier into the stone. Salad dressings and marinades are common culprits. Marble countertops will reflect the character of the family and change to tell the story of the family using them: they will etch, bruise, chip, stain, scratch, and more over time. (We think this adds character!) Marble countertops may only look new for a few minutes after the install is complete. It does not take excessive force or neglect to damage marble countertops. They will wear, age and distress with normal and everyday use.
Care & Maintenance of Marble Countertops and Floors:
Marble has a high absorption rate, and therefore, a sealer should be applied to help slow the rate of water and stain absorption into the stone. A sealer may slow down absorption to help prevent a stain in marble, but will not protect it against other wear/distress listed above.
- DO clean up spills immediately with a wet cloth.
- DO use trivets or mats under hot dishes and cookware.
- DO use placemats under china, ceramics, silver, and other objects that can scratch the stone’s surface.
- DO use coasters under glasses, especially if they contain alcohol or citrus juices.
- DO clean surfaces regularly with mild soap and water.
- DO use a tray for toiletry products in the bathroom to protect the surface from the damaging chemicals contained in many toiletry products.
- DON’T use cleaners that contain acids such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners, or tub cleaners.
- DON’T use vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or other general-purpose cleaners.
- DON’T use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
- DON’T use alkaline cleaners not specifically formulated for stone.
- DON’T use scouring powders and abrasives because they will scratch the surface.
- DON’T place toiletry products directly on the countertop surface.
Avoid setting beverage glasses directly on marble, as they leave rings.
If you have someone come in to clean your home, make sure they only use the products that you provide, not the strong chemical-based commercial cleaners typically used.
