Marble is a beautiful and hard stone that can withstand all types of weather and stains, but it’s important to take care of it using one method. Marble is quite porous, which makes it very susceptible to stains and water rings.
The best way to protect your marble is with sealant or polish because it will keep the natural gloss intact while protecting it from scratches and water damage.
Here’s what you should know about each method:
Sealant
Sealants have long been used as a maintenance option for stone surfaces, especially when applied under existing finishes such as waxes or oils. It serves not only as an aesthetically pleasing finish in itself but also protects the surface beneath by filling micro-pores and fissures.
This option uses a clear coat that binds with the surface, so dirt doesn’t stick as easily. It also protects from scratches by filling in any small cracks on the surface before they get too deep.
One coat is typically sufficient when applying a sealant to your countertops. However, the best results are achieved with 2 coats.
The downside to this option is if you decide you want something different later on down the line, removing sealant can be difficult without chipping off some marble. And once the sealant is on, it’s on for life.
Polish
Polish is another great way to protect your marble countertop because polishes seal the surface of your stone and create an extra layer of protection.
This option polishes the stone to give it a look that isn’t as glossy or reflective as a sealant but gives more protection from scratches and water damage. The downside is you’ll have to polish your marble every 6-12 months to keep the shine intact.
Buff
This makes the surface less shiny than other options by rubbing with an abrasive pad and leveling out any chips or imperfections. You can get this done at home or take it to a professional company specializing in buffing marble surfaces.
Cleaning & Maintenance
It’s important to clean your marble frequently because dirt will build up over time if left untouched. A simple way of keeping it clean is to wipe it down with a damp rag or mop every few weeks, but you should always use warm water.
A more thorough way of keeping it clean is using an all-purpose cleaner and a soft-bristle brush. Always rinse well so there isn’t any residue left behind, which can discolor the stone’s natural tone.
You’ll also want to seal your marble at least once a year to keep dirt from sticking easily and protect against future scratches that may occur every time you wipe down your countertops. If you haven’t decided on which sealer to get, read our reviews of the best marble sealer.
