Second to granite, marble is arguably the most popular countertop stone that homeowners choose in order to make their kitchens beautiful. Although stone definitely helps to achieve that goal, it’s important for homeowners to evaluate both the pros and cons of this material to make sure it is the best fit.
Pros of Installing Marble Countertops
It’s beautiful- Of course, the number one advantage of marble is its beauty. Marble has a unique, elegant look that is difficult for other materials to compare to. Whether you plan on selling your home or living there for years to come, marble countertops will make you or the new prospective homeowner want to spend plenty of time in the kitchen!
It’s cheap…(er)- Marble is generally a slightly less expensive countertop over some other popular options, depending on which kind of marble you choose. However, there are higher-end types of this stone that can become costly, even more so than granite. If you are looking for a cheaper marble option, Carrara Marble is the best choice. Although this type of marble is the most commonly used, it still has a beautiful look and elegance while keeping money in your pocket.
It stays cool- One benefit of these countertops is that they naturally stay cool. This could be good for baking as far as rolling out dough or handling other pastry products. Not only does the dough stay at a cool temperature, but it also does not stick very well to the marble surface. Because marble is heat resistant, it is difficult to damage from hot pots and pans.
Cons of Installing Marble Countertops
It’s soft- Marble is incredibly fragile. Although beautiful, it can chip and scratch more easily than other countertop materials. However, numerous precautions will prevent this — for example, sealing your countertops. Because marble is softer than granite, it makes sense that it needs to be resealed more often. Resealing is not a 100% guarantee against damage, but it lessens the likelihood tremendously. Another suggestion is to put a cutting board on the countertop when you are chopping different items to avoid scratches.
It’s porous- The texture of marble is very porous, making it more susceptible to staining. If a drink is spilled, it is important to clean it up right away, but even that will not guarantee an unstained countertop. There are tiny holes in marble that will soak up any liquid that sits on it long enough to be absorbed into its surface. Proper sealing can help this problem, and sometimes even prevent it from happening. Coasters are a lifesaver as well.
It needs resealing more frequently than most materials- It’s true that marble needs to be resealed slightly more frequently than other stones. If not sealed regularly, the countertop will easily chip and scratch. However, if you don’t mind a bit of upkeep, the resealing is a minuscule trade-off for its beauty.
Ultimately marble is a great — and beautiful — option for improving the look of a kitchen for those who don’t mind upkeep. However, if marble sounds like too much work, there are plenty of other options to consider before finalizing your decision!