Pros and Cons of Marble Countertops
February 28, 2023There are several options available when it comes to the countertops in your custom home. Some options may be a better fit for the kitchen, bathroom, or both, or somewhere else. Here are some of the pros and cons of marble countertops to help you determine if they could be the right choice for you:
4 Pros of Marble Countertops
Marble countertops are one of the ways to incorporate marble into your interior design and offer several benefits. Here are a few pros of marble countertops:
1. Marble Provides a Timeless Elegant Look
Marble is a classic material that offers a timeless, elegant, and luxurious look wherever it’s installed. It’s also one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials year after year. Plus, the veining and colors offer a unique look to each cut of the stone that also adds character to your home that may also serve to increase your home value too.
2. There Are Several Varieties
There are several varieties and colors of marble available. The look varies depending on patterns and veining, source and impurities, colors, and more. Marble can range from white to black and can even feature colors in between like pink and green. Using black marble is a luxurious way to incorporate black into your kitchen design.
With so many options, it’s no surprise that marble is consistently on the list of current kitchen design trends. In addition to colors and veining patterns, there are a few different types of marble. Carrara tends to be the most popular type of marble for countertops and tends to be less expensive than other types. However, you can also find Calacatta, Crema Marfil, and Statuary marble countertops in kitchens.
3. Marble is Customizable
Marble is known for being a “clean cut” that doesn’t chip quite as much as granite. In addition to the variety of types and colors, this also means marble can be customized and used in a variety of designs. Aside from countertops of all shapes, sizes, etc., marble can also be used to create various types of kitchen islands, including the seamless and interesting waterfall-style kitchen island.
4. Marble Countertops Are Long Lasting
When properly maintained, marble countertops last a long time in your home. Although they do require regular maintenance and upkeep, a properly sealed and cared-for marble countertop can last for 100 years or more.
The exception to this is cultured marble where thermoplastic resin is combined with natural crushed marble and then molded into slabs for use in countertops. This type of semi-marble countertop will be less expensive than a true marble countertop and will require less maintenance, but it will only last around 20 years.
3 Cons of Marble Countertops
As with anything, there are some potential drawbacks to marble countertops as well. Here are some cons of marble countertops:
1. Marble Countertops Are Susceptible to Stains
Marble is a porous material and has some heat resistance, but it is not completely heat resistant. This means that hot pans or pots can cause some damage if they are placed directly on the countertop. Using protective pads and pot holders will protect your countertop from heat damage and keep it looking great.
Because marble is porous, it can be stained permanently by acids and liquids. If sealed properly and resealed on schedule, you can help prevent damage and discoloration to your marble countertop. It’s also recommended to wipe up spills as soon as possible to avoid allowing moisture to sit on the countertop; even water will cause staining if it is allowed to sit on the surface for too long.
2. They Can Be Prone to Scratches and Dents
Although marble is a hard, durable countertop, it can be dented or chipped by heavy objects and it can be prone to scratches if the polish or sealant is allowed to fade or if it’s exposed to acid for a long time. Both of these things will weaken the protective seal and leave the countertop more susceptible to damage.
By keeping up with regular maintenance and making sure the seal remains properly in place and is not weakened, you can keep your marble countertop protected and resistant to surface damage like scratches. If etching or shallow scratches do occur, they can usually be buffed out or honed before your countertop is resealed.
3. Marble Countertops Need Some Maintenance
Marble countertops are beautiful, durable, and long-lasting, but they do require some maintenance in order to stay that way. At a minimum, marble countertops should be sealed once they are installed and then resealed annually, or every six months if you use the kitchen frequently.
Additionally, a marble countertop should be polished periodically and wiped down consistently. Regular sealing and polishing keep marble protected and give it that shine. Making sure you regularly wipe up spills and clean ensures there is less of a chance of dulling the shine, weakening the seal, or ending up with stains.
Are You Ready to Design and Build a Custom Home?
These are just a few pros and cons of marble countertops to help you determine if this countertop material is a good option for you. When it comes to designing a custom home, there are a ton of details to think about, consider, and choose for every room.
Partnering with an experienced custom home builder, especially one with an in-house design/build process, can help you handle the details, narrow down options, and get you the home you want with less stress along the way. If you’re ready to bring your dream home to life, contact Custom Home Group at 717-284-4090!