Maintaining marble surfaces for a lifetime

Many homes have marble in different places, because it is such a resilient material. People can use marble for kitchen countertops, flooring, fireplace mantles and many other surfaces. Marble is very resilient as well as beautiful, because of the natural swirling patterns and different shades that make them so unique. Even though these are such durable materials, marble surfaces can be damaged. Marble is an investment that must be protected and maintained carefully.   

Marble can be easily scratched, discolored, stained and scarred. Sometimes this can be repaired, but in the worst case it will be permanent. Nothing compares to the beauty and quality of marble, though, so homeowners should not be deterred by the material’s sensitivity. Having even a few accents of marble in the kitchen countertops or living room mantel can add resale value to a home; it’s not necessary to have it all over. There are also preventative measures that can be taken to keep marble countertops and floors looking their best. Marble can also be cleaned or repaired if a piece becomes scratched, stained or dirty. It is better to take preventative steps to protect marble countertops and floors rather than waiting to see what kind of damage can be repaired. An eventual scratch or stain may be unavoidable, but many can be prevented. Marble countertops, floors and table tops can be saved from moisture damage by using coasters for liquids in glasses and cups, and by throwing rugs on floors to cover areas with heavier foot traffic. Protective plastic scarves can also be used under items that may cause damage to marble furniture. Homeowners should, of course, show off the beauty of their marble, but should also do everything that they can to keep it safe.

Marble will eventually become dirty, no matter how careful everyone is. A soft, clean sponge with lukewarm water should be used to clean the marble, taking care that the sponge is only barely damp. It doesn’t take much water to clean a marble countertop or other surface. After drying the marble with a clean cloth, it should be buffed gently until it shines again. If cleaning with the damp sponge is no longer sufficient because the marble surface has become extremely dirty, a small amount of dry borax and a clean damp cloth can be used. Sometimes cleaning marble can dull the surface, in which case a commercial marble polish can be used to restore the shine it once knew. Make sure to mix the proper amount of water into the marble polish, and always use a clean, dry cloth when gently rubbing the surface. Buffing the marble to a perfect shine again will make it appear just as it did when it was brand new. With this kind of attention on a fairly regular basis, marble countertops, floors, tables and mantels should last a lifetime.