In terms of choosing kitchen countertops, the classic white marble is always the top choice among homeowners. Marble is a natural material with a great variety, depending on your chosen species and cut. However, it is not a perfect product. Although good-quality marble is dense and nonporous, they also have some weaknesses. However, as long you make a careful choice, know what to expect, and care for marble countertops, they can be an attractive, functional choice for your kitchen design.
Kinds of Marble
Marble has hundreds of varieties, including green, taupe, black, and red. But, for marble kitchen countertops, it is best to stick to white. Since acid etching leaves a whitish mark, it is more noticeable on color marble than on white. Classic Italian white marbles such as Statuario and Calacatta are generally of excellent quality and perfect for kitchens, high-quality marbles like Vermont Danby and Colorado Yule are equally great.
Choosing Marble Slabs
Each stone has a slight difference, so it is best to pick the exact pieces of stone you want to be used for your countertops. In terms of marble, you must the slabs and understand where the veining will be located on the countertop. The markings must be artfully placed so it nearly looks like a painting. Also, you must consider how different pieces come together. Focus on getting a long piece without any seams.
Marble Veining
Although each quarry is different, come kinds of marble blocks can be cut in two different ways to achieve extraordinary veining patterns. Crosscut creates stone slabs that have an open flowered pattern. Vein cut slices achieve a linear, striped look.
Marble Finishes
There are many ways to finish a stone such as brushing and polishing techniques. A texture that mimics an orange peel can be achieved that can be called a leather, river-wash, or brushed finish. However, polished remains the most famous choice as it looks glossy or honed that appears matte. A honed finish is ideal for homeowners who are concerned about acid etching.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity of your marble countertops, they must be finished with a penetrating sealer. However, acids can still etch the surface. Luckily, an etched mark on a countertop with a honed finish can be removed by scrubbing it with a Comet paste using a Scotch-Brite pad. A stained marble can be cleaned by removing the stain with an alkaline poultice that will slowly pull the stain out of the stone when it dries.