Marble
Marble is a natural stone that develops character with time and usage—one of the many bonuses of using natural stone for a countertop. Marble countertops create a feeling of luxury in kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces in homes.
Advantages
Marble remains cool naturally, making it a great surface for baking or other cooking—avoid placing hot cookware directly on the countertop. With proper maintenance marble surfaces will last for years in your home.
Disadvantages
Marble is soft and more porous than granite and other manufactured materials, making it more susceptible to damage. It is also prone to scratching, etching, and staining. Once the damage is done, it can be hard to repair. Consider how you use your countertops. Marble’s characteristics can make it a less practical choice for kitchens or bathrooms that see a lot of traffic.
Maintenance
Marble requires special care. Spills should be cleaned immediately after they occur to prevent staining. Instead of wiping, the spill should be soaked up or blotted as gently as possible to avoid spreading over more surface. Harsh cleaners and soaps should be avoided. Moreover, acidic foods should not make direct contact with the countertop to further prevent staining.
Sealing your countertops prevents them from absorbing liquids that can damage the marble. It is recommended you seal marble surfaces at least once every six months.