How to Repair Etched Marble
How to Repair Etched Marble
It’s likely to happen eventually — you just got new marble counters, they look absolutely stunning, and then the wrong food, drink, or cleaning agent gets into contact with them and causes an etch mark; now what? If you’ve been saddled with a recent etch mark in your marble or natural stone that needs repair, read on to learn more about how etch marks are formed and what you can do to fix them.
What Is Etching?
Etched marble, or just etching, refers to surface damage as a result of the corrosive chemical reaction between harsh substances and natural stone materials such as limestone, marble, or granite. These dull marks on natural stone contain calcium carbonate, and they can appear on any stone that’s calcareous stone or made with calcium carbonate — marble, travertine, limestone, and onyx. Etching and etch marks are most obvious on polished stone because it’ll show dull, unpolished stone underneath.
What Causes Etching?
Etching can occur for a variety of reasons. The first is contact with acidic foods and drinks, which are far more commonplace than you may realize. In particular, that refers to coffee, soda, and wine, especially when left to sit on counters for extended periods of time. Harsh cleaners can have a similar effect. Stone is sensitive to acidic materials often found in cleaners, even those that are all-natural. Cleaning agents made with bleach, vinegar, and citrus fruits should all be avoided.
How to Repair Etched Marble
While repairing etched marble is possible, the best fix is always prevention. Sealing your counters can protect from stains, but doesn’t necessarily protect from etching, which is a very physical form of damage. To prevent etching, all you can do is prevent contact with the damaging substances listed above and continuously clean and take care of your marble. Moreover, fix minor etches, scratches, and marks as they appear. Waiting could allow more substances to seep into the stone and cause additional damage!
Minor Etch Marks
Minor etch marks can be a DIY project if you want them to be. Stone polishes and etch removers are available for sale, and they’re created specifically to restore shine and color. To apply, you’ll need to rub it on using just a bit of pressure with a soft microfiber cloth. Several applications may be necessary depending on the severity of the etch. Of course, this works on polished marble, and restoring other types may not be quite as easy.
Serious Etch Marks
Severe etch marks don’t happen quite as often, but accidentally leaving something spilled on the counter without realizing can certainly leave you with a decently-sized etch patch. If an etch mark is noticeably rough when you run your fingers over it, you can consider it pretty serious. For severe marks, you can try applying and reapplying DIY methods, but ultimately, you’ll probably end up needing a professional to come and fix it.
Choose Marble From Impression
Whether you’re looking to replace your existing marble or install a custom marble home piece for the first time, Impression has all of the options you could ever imagine! Our marble is quarried and imported from Europe, including from France and Italy. Our stocked showroom includes a variety of marble types, colors, and finishes — all of which our experts can help you sort through for your project’s perfect match. Contact Impression today to see how your home can be transformed!
