Marble Countertops: Pros and Cons
Marble Countertops: Pros and Cons
Is your kitchen in desperate need of a facelift? Replacing your countertop can make a dramatic difference. Most people these days opt for laminate, granite, or quartz. If you’re going for a look that’s status quo, these are great options. But if you want to make a unique and eye-catching statement, you should consider marble countertops. Because of marble’s delicate nature, you probably never thought to put them in your kitchen. However, with proper care, they can make a beautiful addition to your home. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of marble countertops to see if it’s right for your kitchen project.
Benefits of a Marble Countertop
Marble is a metamorphic rock formed when sedimentary stones undergo intense heat and pressure. Like other natural stones, marble comes with it’s own unique set of benefits:
It’s Stunning
The softness of marble gives it a silky-smooth appearance. But marble’s luxurious appeal really comes from its signature veining (the more veining, the higher the value). No other natural stone or man-made countertop can hold a candle to the brilliant beauty of marble. If you want to make an impression, marble is a spectacular choice.
It Works Well with Most Decor
Remarkably, marble has maintained its status as an upscale material for thousands of years. It’s truly timeless. For this reason, it can complement any decor, from traditional to modern (and everything in between). Available in a range of neutral hues, it also matches easily with your existing color palette.
It’s Heat-Resistant
Between toaster ovens, stoves, and hot pans, the kitchen sees a lot of heat. Some countertops can crack, melt or burn under these circumstances. Since marble is naturally heat-resistant, it can handle the hot temperatures of the kitchen. However, to avoid scratching or staining, it’s still best to place potholders under hot pans.
Drawbacks of a Marble Countertop
It’s true that marble makes an exceptionally beautiful countertop. Nevertheless, it does have its disadvantages:
It Stains Easily
Marble is porous and alkaline. Because of this, it doesn’t react well to acidic substances. Household cleaners and acidic foods will damage and stain the surface. You’ll need to wipe up spills immediately and avoid using common cleaners. Stick to damp cloths or marble-specific cleaning solutions.
It’s Prone to Scratches
Marble is a soft stone with a hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale. This gives marble a silky look but it also makes it susceptible to scratching. To minimize the appearance of scratches, choose a honed finish instead of a polished one. You can also prevent scratches and staining with a topical sealant.
It Can Get Expensive
The average price for marble slab countertops is $60 per square foot. This, of course, depends on the variety of marble. Top-quality marble with more veining can cost upwards of $100 per square foot. However, with proper care, marble countertops can add to the value of your home. The return on investment could be worth the high price tag.
Make a Statement With Impression Marble Countertops
Though it may not be the conventional choice, a marble countertop will add an eye-catching statement to your kitchen. And with a little TLC, it can last a long time. A marble countertop from Impression will exceed your expectations, adding beauty and value to your space. Imported from France and Italy, our marble is high-quality, durable, and stunning. We are confident that you will be delighted with the results. Call us today to see if a marble countertop is right for you.
