Marble has been in fashion since classical antiquity and marble countertops remain one of the most popular choices for kitchens today.
Since countertops are one of the main focal points in any kitchen, they have an important role to play in the overall look and feel of the room. While marble is renowned for its timeless beauty and elegance, it is not the right choice for every kitchen.
Read on to discover the pros and cons of marble countertops.
What is marble?
Marble results from limestone being subjected to conditions of intense pressure and heat over a long period of time. During this process, minerals settle into a pattern that looks like veins — this is what gives marble its signature look.
Marble is often used for kitchen worktops, but it is also a popular choice for floors, walls, and ornamental structures.
Why are marble countertops so popular?
Marble is a popular choice for countertops because of its timeless beauty and the fact that each piece is unique. It comes in a wide range of colours, from classic white to black, beige, pink and green. This elegant natural stone is known for the striking patterns that adorn its surface and is loved for its ability to fit in with both traditional and modern kitchens.
Reasons to love marble countertops
Look and style
Marble is undeniably beautiful and has a rich, timeless quality to it.
Longevity
With proper upkeep and frequent sealing, marble can last more than 100 years.
Practicality and ease of cleaning
Marble is very easy to clean with just a damp cloth and some mild soap.
Increases value
Marble is an investment that—when maintained properly—will add value to your home and impress potential buyers.
Natural and unique
Marble is a completely natural stone, and the veins on its surface are formed as minerals settle amongst the layers during its metamorphosis from limestone to marble, giving your kitchen a look like no other.
Cooler surface
Marble is naturally cool to the touch, making it ideal for baking and cooking. It is important to note however that polished marble is not fully heat-resistant and can be prone to scratching and etching.
The cons of choosing marble countertops
Marble is undeniably beautiful, but it does have some disadvantages.
Here’s why it may not be the right choice for you:
Marble countertops cost more
Marble comes at a higher cost than many other materials. However, some types of marble are less expensive than others.
Marble countertops require more care
Unlike other popular countertop materials such as quartz and neolith, marble is porous and can be stained. Prolonged contact with acidic foods such as lemon juice can leave a mark — this is commonly known as etching.
Sealing marble once a year will help to minimise the amount of staining but it might give you pause for thought if you are looking for a completely maintenance-free surface.
General wear and tear
Marble is a softer stone in comparison to the likes of natural granite or engineered quartz, so it is more susceptible to scratches, dents and chips over time. So it’s something to take into account if you are particularly tough on your kitchen counters.
Find out if marble is the right choice for your kitchen countertops
The Stone Gallery is your one-stop shop for high-quality marble countertops.
Our viewing gallery is open seven days a week, so pop in and see and feel its beauty for yourself and our experienced team will be on hand to answer all your questions and help you decide if marble is the right choice for your kitchen countertops.
We can provide you with a full service from design through to installation, so get in touch today to start your kitchen design or renovation dreams.
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