Marble Countertops in Maryland - Marble Countertops by Express Countertops of Maryland

Marble Countertops: A Delicate Choice

Marble Features The Differences between Marble and Granite Marble Maintenance

A warm and soft stone, marble is beautiful and luxurious. Marble is durable and long-lasting, and offers subtle color choices and veining patterns to create unique designs. Similar to other natural stones, marble can be an expensive choice. It is often used on specific areas of a room, instead of on all of the surfaces. Marble is waterproof and heat resistant, but does require regular maintenance.

Marble Countertops - Express Countertops Marble is a metamorphic rock resulting from the metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks, either dolostone or limestone.

The process causes a total re-crystallization of actual rock. Marble comes in a variety of colors such as white, grey, pink, green, black and brown. It is a naturally decorative material distinguished by its vein-like patterns.

Cost: About $30 to $100 per square foot.

To view our marble color swatches gallery click the icon below.

Marble Features

PROS	CONS
Has a luxurious look that adds sophistication to any room.	Less dense than granite making it more porous and susceptible to being stained.
Heat resistant.	Requires use of a cutting board.
Offers a wide variety of colors and veining patterns.	Vulnerable to chipping and cracking under frequent use.
A warm and soft stone with rich colors.	Can be expensive depending on type of stone and size of solid pieces to be installed.
	Requires maintenance, such as periodic resealing.
	Dulls easily from exposure to acidic liquids such as wine, coffee, juice and alcohol.

The Differences between Marble and Granite

Marble Countertops - Express Countertops Although both natural stones, marble and granite have many different qualities that should be considered when it comes to countertop surfaces. Granite’s density and hardness help make is resistant to scratches, acids, stains and heat. Marble’s density makes it more vulnerable to such damage but allows more detailed designs to be carved into the stone.

Because of marble’s weaker build, it is often used for more delicate items such as vases and fireplace mantels, or designs in bathrooms. Marble is better when used in low-traffic areas because it softer and more porous than granite. The beauty of marble can still be enjoyed despite its sensitivities; it just requires a little extra delicacy.

While granite is used for entire rooms, marble is usually not, but can be easily incorporated into a room. Advancements are being made available to protect marble surfaces, such as new treatments to eliminate cracking in marble that were not around in the past. New sealers can better protect marble as well.

Marble Maintenance

Although not best for frequently used countertops, marble is a unique choice that adds a sophisticated look. When in doubt of marble’s strength, it is safe to use it on an island or inset at a baking center.

Marble countertops and tabletops are easily stained by acidic foods like fruit, tomato sauce, coffee, and wine. Blot, do not wipe, any spills up immediately, and then clean with mild soap and hot water. Do not set hot pans directly onto marble. And place a mat or pad between marble and anything which might scratch it, like a pan or utensils.

Use coasters between marble and any glasses, especially ones containing acidic compounds like fruit juices, wine, or coffee.

On marble countertops, avoid harsh cleaners and acidic cleaners, including vinegar. Marble is a sensitive stone, but with proper care, these surfaces can last a lifetime.

For more information about marble countertops contact Express Countertops. Call or use the estimate button above to request your free estimate and have your new countertops installed in 1 week - guaranteed!