10 Things You Need to Know About Marble Countertops

Learn more about marble, the popular countertop choice.

When it comes to countertops, there are a lot of options out there. You can go with granite or quartz, for example, but one of the most popular materials is marble. In fact, in recent years, this material has been becoming increasingly popular amongst homeowners because of its distinctive look and durability for your kitchen or bathroom.

However, not everyone knows all the facts about marble before making this decision; here are 10 things you should know before opting for this type of material!

1. Shining Stone

The name "marble" is a derivative of the Latin word 'mare' or 'marmor.' It's derived from the Proto-Indo-European root, gwor– meaning to shine as water does. In ancient times, marble was used as a decorative stone for sculptures, and it has been referred to as being shiny and wet–like water. And that's how marble means shining stone.

2. Marble Comes from the Mountains

Over the years, marble is formed through heat and pressure. It can also be created by chemicals such as carbonic acid by dissolving limestone, but the most popular, highest-quality marble comes from mountains that have been deep beneath the Earth's surface where large quantities of heat and pressure are present. The source of this type of marble is from the Apuan Alps in Tuscany, Italy.

3. Carrara, the Popular Marble

Carrara marble is a form of white or blue-gray marble that originated in the Italian city of Carrara. It's been used in famous structures over the years, including sculptures and buildings! In addition, it can be found in notable cities around the world, such as Paris, Shanghai, Istanbul, Buenos Aires, Melbourne, and even New York City.

4. It takes 1 – 2 Months to Process Marble into Slabs for Countertops

So, how long does it take to make marble? Most are quarried in blocks that can weigh up to 20 metric tons. The stone is then cut into slabs for countertops, which typically weigh about 2-3 tons each. Then, it's shipped to distributors before being transported once again to fabricators or companies that work with the material to make it into countertops.

5. A Popular Material for Famous Artworks all Over the World

From Michelangelo's David statue to Cleomenes’ Venus de’ Medici, marble has been used by some of the world's most famous professionals and artists. This material was even used by ancient Egyptians in sculptures and monuments.

6. More than Just Shades of White and Gray

Believe it or not, there are many different kinds of marble on the market. For example, you can find colors like black, brown, red, deep pink/rose, orange, and yellow. It is also available in veining options such as white mixed with gray.

7. More Expensive than Granite Countertops

When it comes to price, marble countertops are usually more expensive than other stones like granite or quartz. For example, the cost of Carrara marble can be about two to four times the amount compared to granite.

8. Marble in Your Toothpaste

You probably use a product containing marble every day without even knowing it. Your toothpaste could contain calcium carbonate, which is a mineral found in marble and limestone! Tom's of Maine has been using calcium carbonate in their toothpaste since 1975.

9. Marble is High Maintenance.

Another thing you might not know about marble? It can be high maintenance. Yes, this type of countertop requires regular sealing to protect it from stains and liquids. You might have to reseal your countertops about every 3 – 6 months.

10. It's Environmentally Friendly

Marble is one of the more eco-friendly countertop options. For instance, it's made from limestone, which is a natural mineral that takes decades to form. So when you get marble counters installed in your home or business, you're not only getting something beautiful–you're doing the environment a favor!

Are you ready to equip and decorate your home with the beauty of marble countertops? Give us a ring at Grand Rapids Remodeling Pros, and we'll help you bring your marble dreams to life!