When it comes to the perfect balance of beauty and durability, few materials rival the striking nature of marble for kitchen countertops. Revered for millennia for its elegance and adaptability, marble is the premium stone – used within homes, art, and monuments around the world. Due to this test of time, we know that marble’s merit is not only in its visual versatility but also in its functional longevity. It is a stunning value addition to your home that will serve as a beautiful piece for generations. Marble’s distinctive material enhances any space, creating a remarkable focal point that contrasts well with seemingly every paint color. So, if you’re considering a home renovation, you owe it to yourself to explore the marble varieties available to you.
What Exactly is Marble?
You likely recognize a marble pattern when you see one, but do you know exactly what marble is? Let’s take a closer look. Geologically, when limestone encounters high temperatures and tons of pressure, it transforms into marble. This metamorphosis from one stone into another classifies marble as a metamorphic rock. This transformation causes the calcite – or calcium carbonate – in the limestone to recrystallize, creating the dense, milky appearance that is distinctly characteristic of marble. The result is a strong, sturdy stone with intricate veining and rich hues that elevate any environment or design scheme.
Why Choose Marble Countertops for Your Home
While it is softer and more porous than other stones because of its calcium components, marble offers unique advantages that shouldn’t deter you from embracing it in your home, even in high-traffic areas like your kitchen. In fact, marble is an excellent surface for all areas of your kitchen. With proper maintenance and modern sealing products, marble countertop owners can keep their countertops in peak condition. Though it might take a little more care and consideration, the natural beauty of marble will reward you daily, as will the compliments of your guests. With its superior quality and impeccable beauty, marble countertops are among the most sought-after design selections for homeowners and designers alike.
The Art of Marble Design
Choosing the right marble slab for your countertops is incredibly important and will significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your space. You have to consider not only the color but also where the veining and patterns will fall within the slab. In addition, the placement of the marble veining is particularly important. When done correctly, all of the markings will work together and flow to create a striking visual effect.
While seamless pieces are preferable for a clean, uninterrupted look, seams can sometimes be unavoidable. In these cases, it’s important to ensure that the adjacent pieces are well-coordinated to enhance flow and minimize visual disruption. Our team at STONE can help you navigate this process and recommend how to best match the marble to create a countertop that feels harmonious and adds to the beauty of your space. Whether you’re looking to make a dramatic statement or create a sense of understated elegance, we’ll guide you in making the best choice to complement your vision.
Practical Considerations: Durability and Maintenance
Marble is an investment in your home, and caring for your marble countertops is essential for their longevity. When selecting marble for your kitchen, our team at STONE will recommend an easy-to-follow maintenance routine to meet your particular needs and situation. Since marble is a porous stone, we recommend applying a seal to enhance its durability and provide protection from stains, etches, and other potential damage. Basically, the sealant fills the pores of the marble slab, effectively creating a barrier that prevents liquids from spoiling the stone. Understanding the properties of different types of marble should inform your selection as well. For example, colored marble may be more likely to display marks, while white marble naturally disguises most acid etching that occurs since the marks left behind are typically white. Depending on the finish that you choose for your marble countertops, upkeep, and treatment will differ from things you can do yourself to professional restoration. While white marble remains a popular choice for homeowners for kitchen countertops, it’s ultimately up to personal preference. Our team can help you navigate your options and recommend a maintenance routine tailored to your needs.
Versatility: Go Beyond the Kitchen
Of course, marble’s possibilities extend beyond the kitchen counter. Marble countertops make an excellent choice for any room. Imagine countertops in guest bathrooms, marble shelves in primary bedroom closets, accent pieces along the wall, or even marble flooring – all places where you won’t have to worry about cooking oils or acids at all. Some customers have even used marble in pieces of accent furniture, such as side tables. No matter the placement or purpose, marble adds a sense of timeless elegance and a gorgeous visual texture.
Ready to Talk Marble Countertops? Schedule a Free Consultation!
If you’re considering maybe for your home, meet with the professionals at STONE in Baton Rouge to choose your perfect marble. When approaching a new build or a remodel, it’s important to learn all that you can about your material options. Contact STONE in Baton Rouge to discover all the details about marble countertops.