For generations, this exquisite stone has inspired builders and given the world some of its most glorious heritage.  Some of the greatest sculptures and buildings in the world, known for their beauty and opulence, are made of marble.  It’s classic beauty and wide range of colours and patterns give it an edge over other natural stones.  However, its greatest drawback is that it requires constant care to keep it in good condition.  We shall discuss here some tips for taking care of marble and share some do’s and don’ts for marble upkeep.  We shall also discuss when to call in for professional assistance to maintain its luminous glow.

THE DO’S OF MARBLE CARE

Clean spills immediately:  It is the most common reason for discoloration and etching on marble.  Marble is a porous stone that can absorb fluids and spilled substances, especially those that are acidic in nature, such as fruit juice, lemon juice, vinegar, or even milk, tea, coffee, or oil. If not removed promptly, it will leave a nasty stain.  These stains are difficult to eradicate if left unattended. Clean by blotting the spill, as wiping will distribute the liquid over a wider area, resulting in a larger stain. 

Use pH neutral cleaners:  Marble is a soft and sensitive stone.   It should be cleaned with water, mild soap, or a pH-balanced cleanser.  A soft cloth is the best tool to

Keep marble dry: Using a wet mop to clean the marble will leave streak marks, making the marble look dull.  Besides, it also infiltrates underneath the stone's surface. This will lead to irreversible damage as the water reacts with the various mineral deposits in the stone. After washing or mopping, always dry and buff the surface with a soft and dry towel.

Dust and sweep frequently: To avoid scratching the surface, dust and sweep marble floors frequently. If using a vacuum cleaner, ensure that the brush attachments are soft and do not scratch the marble floor.

Use trivets and coasters: Place trivets or coasters beneath plates and glasses. By doing this, the marble surface is shielded from heat damage and moisture, which leave etch marks on the marble surface.

Seal marble surfaces: To protect marble from etching and staining, the stone surface should be sealed on a regular basis. The frequency of applying a sealant varies from six to twelve months, depending on the type of marble as well as the foot traffic. The best way to check if marble needs sealing is to put a few droplets of water on its surface.  If the water is absorbed rapidly, then it’s time to reseal.

THE DONT’S OF MARBLE CARE

Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners: Marble should not be cleaned with vinegar, lemon juice, or any other acidic cleaner. Acidic substances act as an abrasive and leave the marble looking dull. For optimal results, cleaners are especially formulated for use on marble as they are pH neutral. Do not use abrasive cleaning equipment, such as steel wool or a scoring pad. They may remove the stain, but not only leave scratches but also destroy the protective layer on the surface.

Wet floors: Do not allow water to sit on the marble surface.  Moisture penetrates the marble surface and reacts with the minerals present there to cause efflorescence or discoloration.  Over a period of time, it will weaken the structural integrity of the stone.

Avoid Dragging Heavy furniture: Using heavy goods to drag over countertops or marble floors will scratch the surface and even cause the marble to chip off. Pick up the objects if they need to be moved, rather than pulling them along. For moving very heavy objects, place felt pads at the bottom for smooth movement and to safeguard the marble floor.

Avoid Placing Sharp Items: Sharp objects placed directly on marble cause chipping and scratching of the surface.  Avoid keeping decoration items with sharp or pointed legs directly on the stone.   Walking on marble floors in shoes with sharp heels causes significant damage as they exert pressure on a small area, resulting in scratches and chipping of the stone.

PROFESSIONAL CARE

Marble requires comprehensive maintenance, which is best done by an expert in the field of marble maintenance.  Marble should be sealed and polished at regular intervals to maintain its appearance. The sealant creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture and contaminants from seeping into the marble and causing damage.  While the polishing adds sheen to the marble and removes scratches and etch marks, the process requires technical knowledge and the use of specialised machines and tools to restore the stone to its original state.

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