Marble Worktops
A comprehensive buying guide on marble kitchen worktops.
Introduction
Marble worktops are a popular choice for homeowners who are looking to renovate their kitchens. They are known for their elegance, durability, and versatility. Marble is a natural stone that has been used in construction and decoration for thousands of years.
It is composed mainly of calcium carbonate, which gives it its unique white or grey appearance. Marble worktops have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their aesthetic appeal and durability.
They come in a variety of colours and patterns, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect style for their kitchen. These worktops can also withstand high temperatures and are resistant to scratches, making them an ideal surface for cooking.
One of the main advantages of these worktops is their ability to add value to your home. If you’re looking to sell your property in the future, investing in marble worktops can increase its overall value significantly.
In addition to adding value, marble can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. The unique veining patterns found in natural marble make every piece one-of-a-kind.
Overall, investing in marble worktops is an excellent choice for any homeowner who wants a high-quality surface that will last for many years while adding beauty and style to their home. In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about purchasing the perfect marble worktops for your kitchen renovation project – from types of marble options available on the market today to tips on how best to care for them once they’re installed!
Advantages
Durability and Longevity
Marble has been used in construction for centuries, and for good reason. They are incredibly durable and long-lasting.
They can withstand years of wear and tear without losing their elegant appearance. The high density of marble makes it resistant to scratches and chipping, unlike many other types of countertops.
Additionally, marble is a natural stone that does not fade or discolour over time. One thing to keep in mind is that while they are highly durable, they do require a little bit of extra care.
For example, acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar can etch the surface of the marble if left on for too long. However, as long as you take care to clean up any spills or messes right away, your marble worktops will look beautiful and last for many years.
Heat Resistance
Marble is naturally heat-resistant, which makes it an ideal choice for a kitchen countertop where hot pots and pans are frequently placed. Unlike some other materials that can warp or discolour when exposed to high temperatures, marble maintains its structural integrity even under extreme heat.
That being said, while marble is heat-resistant it’s still a good idea to use trivets or pot holders when placing hot items on your worktops. This will help prevent any accidental damage from occurring over time.
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the biggest advantages of choosing these worktops is their stunning aesthetic appeal. Marble has a natural elegance that adds a touch of luxury to any kitchen design.
Because it’s a natural stone, each slab has its own unique patterns and colours which means no two marble worktops are ever exactly the same. Marble also comes in multiple colour options ranging from whites and greys to blacks and greens.
This makes it easy to find a worktop that complements your kitchen’s colour scheme and overall design aesthetic. Marble worktops are a highly durable and long lasting option for kitchen countertops that offer heat resistance, unique aesthetic appeal, and easy maintenance with proper care.
Popular Choices
Carrara Marble: Beauty in Simplicity
Carrara marble is the most widely known type of marble used in worktops, and it’s easy to see why. Quarried in Tuscany, Italy, it boasts a classic white or blue-grey background with delicate veins in shades of grey or beige.
It exudes elegance and simplicity that suits a variety of kitchen styles – from modern minimalistic to traditional farmhouse. That said, Carrara marble is not without its drawbacks.
It has more veining than other types of marble, which means that it may not be suitable for those who prefer a uniform look. Additionally, this type of marble is softer than others and may scratch easily.
Calacatta Marble: The Epitome of Luxury
If you’re looking for something truly luxurious and unique, Calacatta might be the answer. Quarried in Carrara as well as its neighbouring areas, this type of marble features bold veins in gold or grey tones on a pristine white background.
One thing to keep in mind is that Calacatta is not only rarer but also more expensive compared to Carrara. It’s also less common since many homeowners prefer the subtlety of Carrara over the dramatic look of Calacatta.
Statuario Marble: The Prized Rarity
Statuario marble can be seen as the most exclusive and prestigious option out there due to its rarity and beauty – named after the Greek word “statuario” meaning “like a statue”. Its pure white background with subtle grey veining makes it highly coveted by homeowners who want their kitchen to exude an air of sophistication.
However, being one-of-a-kind comes at a price; Statuario can be one of the most expensive types around. And while its beauty is undeniable, this type of marble requires extra care due to its porous nature – it’s more prone to staining and requires regular sealing.
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Making a Choice
When it comes to choosing the right marble worktop for your kitchen, there are a few key factors to consider. One of the most important things to keep in mind is your budget. While they can add significant value and beauty to your home, they can also be quite expensive.
It’s important to set a realistic budget and stick to it when selecting your marble worktop. In addition to budget considerations, you’ll also want to think about maintenance requirements.
Marble is a porous material that requires regular sealing in order to prevent staining and etching from acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar. If you’re someone who tends to be forgetful about maintenance tasks, you may want to consider a different type of worktop material that requires less upkeep.
Budget considerations
When considering how much you’re willing or able to spend, it’s important to keep in mind not just the cost of the materials themselves but also any installation fees. The price can vary widely depending on factors like where you live, the size of your kitchen and how complex the installation process will be.
Maintenance requirements
Marble is known for its luxurious appearance but it does come with some upkeep requirements that should be taken into consideration when making your decision about which type of worktop material is best for your needs. One of the primary concerns regarding maintenance is staining due to spills or other accidents. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to regularly seal them using a specialised product designed for this purpose.
This will help protect the surface from absorbing liquids and other substances that can cause permanent damage over time. Additionally, you may want to avoid placing hot pots or pans directly onto the surface, as this can cause discoloration and other types of damage.
Colour and pattern options
One of the most appealing aspects is the wide variety of colours and patterns available. From classic white Carrara marble to dramatic black Nero Marquina, there are countless options to choose from depending on your personal taste and design preferences.
Some homeowners prefer a more uniform look with minimal veining or patterning, while others enjoy the bold character that comes with highly-veined marble. It’s worth taking some time to research different types of marble in order to get a sense of what appeals to you aesthetically before making a final decision. We stock a wide range of marble including a range of base colours such as black, grey and white.
Installation Process
Finding a Reputable Contractor
One of the most important steps in installing worktops is finding a reputable contractor.
You want to make sure that the company you hire has experience with marble and has a good reputation in your local community. Start by asking for recommendations from friends or family members who have had similar work done.
During these consultations, ask about their experience working with marble, their process for installation, and how long they expect the project to take. Once you have gathered all of this information, make an informed decision on which contractor to hire based on their qualifications, reputation, and price.
Preparing Your Kitchen for Installation
Before installation day arrives, there are a few things you can do to prepare your kitchen for the work. First, clear out any items from underneath your current countertops so that the contractors will have easy access to remove them. Next, disconnect any appliances like sinks or stovetops from the current countertops so that they are ready to be removed.
You should also make sure that there is ample space around your kitchen for contractors to move around freely while installing the new worktops. Make sure any furniture or décor items that could get in the way are temporarily removed or relocated.
Consider covering nearby surfaces like floors or cabinets with protective materials like drop cloths or plastic sheets to minimise damage during installation. By taking these steps before installation day arrives, you can help ensure a smooth and successful process from start to finish.
Care of your Marble Worktops
Cleaning Tips and Tricks
Whilst a beautiful addition to any kitchen, and like any other material, they require proper care and maintenance. To keep your worktops looking their best, it’s important to clean them regularly. However, it’s essential not to use harsh chemicals that can damage the surface of the marble.
Instead, opt for a gentle cleaner made specifically for marble or a natural cleaning solution like a mixture of water and vinegar or baking soda. When wiping down your marble worktops, use a soft cloth or sponge instead of an abrasive scrubber.
Avoid using acidic cleaners like lemon juice or vinegar because they can etch and dull the surface over time. If you spill any liquids on the surface, be sure to wipe them up promptly to prevent staining.
Sealing Recommendations
To help protect your worktops from stains and etching caused by acidic substances, it’s recommended that you seal them regularly. Sealers penetrate the porous surface of the marble and create a barrier that repels liquids. You can purchase sealers at most home improvement stores or hire a professional to apply one for you.
The frequency with which you should seal your marble surfaces depends on several factors such as how often you use your kitchen and what types of foods you prepare on them. As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that you seal your marble every 6-12 months.
When sealing your countertops yourself, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Also remember that each sealer has its own curing time before it becomes fully effective so avoid using your countertop until the sealer has cured completely.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your worktops is an important part of maintaining their beauty and longevity. With regular cleaning and sealing, you can keep them looking their best for years to come.
Remember to avoid harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners, and always wipe up spills promptly. If you’re unsure about how to care for your marble worktops, be sure to consult with a professional for advice on the best cleaning and sealing products to use.
Common Misconceptions
Marble always stains easily
One of the most common myths about marble worktops is that they stain very easily. This is not entirely accurate.
While it is true that marble can absorb liquids, including oils and acidic substances, it doesn’t necessarily mean that these will stain the surface permanently if you clean them up quickly enough. The key to avoiding stains on your marble worktops is to maintain a regular cleaning routine and wipe up spills as soon as possible to avoid any potential damage.
Marble etches too easily
Another common misconception is that they get etched or scratched very easily. While it’s true that marble is softer than other natural stone materials like granite, this does not mean that it will etch every time you set something down on the surface.
Most etches are caused by acidic substances or abrasion from sharp objects rubbing against the surface over time. However, with proper care and maintenance, your worktops can remain beautiful for years without any visible signs of wear or tear.
Marble isn't durable enough for a kitchen setting
This misconception stems from the belief that marble is a delicate material and cannot withstand heavy use in a kitchen environment. However, while it’s true that some types of natural stone are better suited for high-traffic areas like kitchens, many varieties of marble are highly durable and can withstand daily wear and tear with ease. Plus, with regular sealing and cleaning, your marble worktops can last for many years without showing any signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion
Recap of Key Takeaways
Marble kitchen worktops are an excellent investment for any kitchen renovation project. Marble offers a timeless aesthetic appeal while also being incredibly durable and heat-resistant. When choosing the right worktop for your kitchen, factors such as budget, maintenance requirements, and colour options should be considered.
The installation process should involve finding a reputable contractor and preparing your kitchen for the installation. Proper care and maintenance of your worktops can ensure their longevity.
Final Thoughts on Investing in Marble
Investing in marble is not just about adding value to your home; it’s about creating a space you love to be in. A well-designed kitchen with high-quality materials can make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable, ultimately leading to more time spent with loved ones. While some may argue that other countertop materials such as man made quartz worktops that have a marble effect or granite worktops are better options due to their lower maintenance requirements or stain resistance, they simply cannot match the natural beauty of marble.
With proper care and maintenance, these kitchen worktops will last for years to come and continue to add value both aesthetically and financially and transform your kitchen due to the good quality of the material.
Our Process
Quote
We offer a broad range of high-quality worktops at affordable prices. Simply choose your material and style and get in touch for a tailored quote.
Survey
For the best results, a member of our team will carry out an on-site survey to template your chosen worktop before the fabrication process begins.
Manufacture
We’ll then manufacture your bespoke worktop, made from the highest quality materials, for a professional and long-lasting result to enhance your home.
Install
Our highly skilled installers will fit your custom-made granite, marble or quartz worktop, ensuring a fantastic finish you can be proud of.