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Whether you browse online or offline, there are hundreds of kitchen worktop options to explore. Almost every material is proclaimed as the best, thereby making the purchase decision even more perplexing for homeowners. In terms of popularity rankings, marble worktops have been trending year after year. This natural stone is certainly a fine choice, but you should have all the necessary information before investing in these luxurious worktops. After all, kitchen designing/remodelling activities are expensive and time-consuming. Choosing a practical, attractive, and durable worktop material will ensure that your investment remains worthwhile for years to come.
5 Crucial Insights on Marble Worktops
Marble worktops are available in a wide range of natural hues, one-of-a-kind veining patterns, finishes, and fancy edges. From vintage kitchens to ultra-modern cooking spaces, there is a suitable marble variant for every décor choice and style. Metamorphized from limestone under intense natural forces, the smooth crystalline aura of marble can never go out of style. Here are X vital points you should know before investing in marble worktops:-
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Advantages of Marble Worktops
- Marble has been hailed for its attractiveness and opulence for eternity. No other worktop material, manmade or natural, comes close to its grandeur.
- It provides a cool working surface to roll dough and pastry, work with chocolate, butter, and so on.
- Marble is a fire-retardant material with high thermal insulation.
- With proper upkeep, marble is a durable and long-lasting worktop material.
- Well-sealed marble is hygienic, non-porous, and requires simple cleaning.
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Limitations of Marble Worktops
- Marble worktop installation is complicated. You cannot expect to do it all alone without professional help.
- Marble has an absorbent surface which makes it imperative that you get it sealed at least once a year.
- You need to be extremely careful while working on marble work surfaces. Keep acidic beverages away, always use a chopping board, and don’t drag sharp or heavy objects atop.
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Marble Worktop Installation
If you want to invest in marble worktops, working with a trustworthy worktop manufacturer is necessary. With a Mohs hardness rating of 3, Marble is softer than granite and quartzite. Hence, it can get damaged if not handled properly. A certified installation team will make accurate measurements, prepare the subsurface, use the correct adhesive, and ensure thorough sealing.
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Finishes Available
While there are several finishes available for marble worktops, the following two are the most popular:-
- Honed- This is a subtle or matte finish with a naturally coarse surface. Scratches are less visible on this surface but the granular texture makes it prone to dirt accumulation and stains.
- Polished- This high-gloss and lustrous finish is extremely popular in modern kitchens. The likelihood of staining is minimal for polished marble but it is prone to scratching.
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How to Clean and Maintain Marble Worktops?
The most important thing to remember here is to always use a neutral pH cleaner for marble. Even the mildest acid will tarnish the surface. Similarly, using scouring pads and harsh abrasives will lead to permanent scratches. Just a simple wipe-down with mild soapy water once a day is enough to keep the surface clean. Make sure you wipe all spills immediately.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, your marble kitchen worktops can maintain their pristine appearance for years to come. Always hire a reliable worktop supplier with a proven track record of installing and customizing marble surfaces. Make sure you consult experts who know how to install, seal, and polish marble worktops for an extended life. Lastly and most importantly, try to invest in premium Italian marble like Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuario instead of low-grade variants. This will garner high ROI over the years and fetch a high valuation when you sell your property.