Something to Marble About

Marble statues and temples have demanded the admiration of onlookers for centuries. There is something grand and regal about the smoothly sculpted white and grey stone. The ancient Greeks and Romans couldn't get enough of the natural stone in their architecture, and it even inspired modern monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Considering marble's history in prestigious buildings and grand monuments, it's no wonder that homeowners are now eager to use this elegant stone in their own kitchens or bathrooms as countertops.

The Fairest of Them All

Other natural stone countertops may elicit "Oohs and Aahs", but imagine walking into a room with marble surfaces. Guests will be too transfixed to say a word! A symbol of tradition and refinement, marble is simply breathtaking in any setting.

Maintenance

Because marble is more porous than some other stones, countertops made of this material will require additional care and maintenance. No other surface can truly compare with the natural beauty of marble; individuals who choose to have marble installed in their homes can tell you that the extra upkeep required is well worth the splendor of the stone. Many products are available to seal marble and protect it from stains and bacteria.

Marble is softer than granite or quartz, and can scratch more easily. For this reason, some prefer to use this material in the bathroom rather than the kitchen, where more chopping and activity will occur. To avoid cracking and other damage, some homeowners choose to use tiles instead of slabs. This way, additional tiles can be ordered with the original purchase in case some need to be replaced at a later time. Another benefit of tiles includes the elimination of joint lines. Sometimes slabs have to be joined if one piece cannot cover the entire section, or if there is an awkward angle that needs to be cut; tiles allow for a more flexible method of installation.

Aesthetics and Color

Although white and grey are most common, marble also comes in a few other color varieties such as Botticino, a light orangey pink marble from Italy, and Phrygian Marble, a deep purple marble that comes from Turkey. Color variations stem from elements that were present at the time the stone was formed, which also contribute to the colors and grains embedded in the rock.

Marble has a classical mystique surrounding it. It is a stone that has survived the ages and continues to impress viewers today with its romantic and elegant appeal. Painters have mimicked marble for centuries, and now homeowners are lucky enough to enjoy the stone in their homes.