The Pros and Cons of a Kitchen Marble Countertop
When installing new countertops, you have several materials available to choose from. But is marble good for kitchen countertops? Trusting professionals for advice, like the team at Vatter Construction, is a smart starting point.
Learn how marble compares to other kitchen countertop materials in terms of staining, heat resistance, maintenance, and durability. Here are some valuable insights if you’re planning a kitchen remodeling in Lancaster, PA.
Advantages of Selecting Marble for a Kitchen Countertop
Marble is a highly popular material for kitchen countertops. It provides several advantages for homeowners and commercial users.
The Aesthetic of Marble Is Impressive
Marble kitchen countertops are highly desirable. As a homeowner, you’ll like seeing this material in your kitchen every day. When you’re ready to sell your home, potential home buyers will appreciate a high-end material like marble, which may increase your home’s value.
Marble Is Sustainable and Lasts a Long Time
Because of the cost of a new kitchen countertop, you may wonder: Is marble good for kitchen countertops when your primary concern is durability? Marble slabs can last 100 years or more with proper maintenance and sealing, giving you an excellent return on your initial investment.
It Withstands High Temperatures Successfully
Heat does not affect the durability of marble. Although prolonged and direct exposure to a hot pan could discolor the material, the marble should not suffer structural issues from occasional heat exposure.
You Have Many Color Options
Marble countertops are available in a wide range of colors and designs, allowing you to find one that matches your style and plans. White, green, brown, and gray shades are all popular in marble countertops.
Reasons To Avoid Marble Kitchen Countertops
So, is marble good for kitchen countertops in every situation? Although marble has quite a few advantages in a remodeling project, it’s not as good as other kitchen countertop materials in certain situations.
You’ll Need To Do Regular Maintenance
Because marble is a porous material, it requires careful care of the surface. Maintenance requires adding a high-quality sealant product every six to 12 months. After adding the sealant, allow it to cure for approximately 24 hours. Some countertops may need a second sealant coat.
Marble Is Susceptible to Stains and Scratches
Because of its porosity, marble can stain when exposed to acidic substances or cooking oils. Its porosity also makes marble softer than you may think, which means it could scratch when exposed to rough treatment. Regularly sealing the material should prevent the majority of these issues, but damage is always a possibility.
Marble Is Costlier Than Other Materials
Marble has natural beauty, but you'll pay a premium price to obtain and install this material. Less expensive man-made kitchen countertop materials continue to evolve, offering durability and aesthetic benefits that are similar to marble. If marble doesn’t fit your budget or if the maintenance requirements are problematic, you can choose a more affordable alternative and still receive a beautiful product.
Installation Can Be a Challenge
Marble is one of the heaviest materials used for kitchen countertops. You should always rely on experienced professionals to measure and install marble. This is not a job that’s made for fans of DIY.
When You Want Help Picking Your Next Kitchen Countertop Material, Trust Vatter Construction
Deciding which material to use for your kitchen countertop can be a challenge. You need a material that fits your budget and usage patterns. Is marble good for kitchen countertops, or should you opt for a material like quartz or quartzite? At Vatter Construction, we’ll suggest a material that delivers a timeless design.
We offer home and kitchen remodeling services that deliver stress-free construction at affordable prices. To discuss your project or to request a quote, contact us today at (717) 276-8855.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our expert designers and technicians can answer any questions you have about kitchen marble countertops.
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Yes, you should avoid using certain cleaners on marble countertops. Cleaners with a citrus base or that include bleach or ammonia could etch the surface, permanently damaging it.
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Yes, a marble countertop is considered a natural stone because it consists of metamorphic rock. It differs from man-made materials used in countertops, like engineered quartz and concrete.
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Some cheaper countertop materials that look like marble include quartzite, quartz, and certain types of concrete. These materials have veining and colors that resemble marble.
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Due to its porosity, marble is not suitable for kitchen countertops that are constantly exposed to moisture. You should clean spills as quickly as possible and remove standing water.
