We know how much you love your Carrara white marble bathroom and kitchen countertops, so of course we want to educate you on all the do’s and don’ts when it comes to taking care of these beautiful surfaces.
First, let’s talk about the two finishes that we generally see on marble countertops.
1. Polished finish:
The Marble Institute of America Glossary states that a polished finish is a glossy surface finish that brings out the full color and character of the stone.
Naturally polished finishes are not sealer or wax coatings. The shine comes naturally from the stone itself.
2. Honed finish:
The Marble Institute of America Glossary states that this finish is a satin-smooth surface finish with little or no gloss. Honed surfaces have become popular recently partially due to the fact that they are easier to maintain than polished stone surfaces.
Please note that even if your marble was installed with a certain finish, we as a restoration company can hone or polish the stone on-site.
So what are some key facts to know about marble bathroom and kitchen countertops:
- Marble needs to be cleaned on a regular basis with neutral cleaners (such as Lavenet, Lavenet Green, and Akemi Crystal Clean).
- Marble reacts to acid, ammonia, and alcohol. It will “etch” when it comes into contact with these three substances. Etch marks are chemical burns that look like the finish or the shine has been removed from the surface of the stone. Etch marks seem to show less on honed surfaces because they do not starkly contract the rest of the high polish surface.
- Sealing your stone does not stop etch marks, but it does stop grease and oil from staining the marble. We recommend re-sealing your stone annually with Seal & Go® S or Seal & Go® W.
- Depending on your level of tolerance of etch marks and fine scratches, your marble may need to be re-honed or re-polished every 2-5 years.
Marble surfaces may require more maintenance than other types of countertops, but it adds an element of elegance to your home. Also remember, that unlike some other non-stone materials, marble can be resurfaced, repaired, and refinished. If you are in the Houston area, International Stoneworks would be happy to quote you on refinishing your marble.
