Natural stone is increasingly used for the design and arrangement of the interior of the kitchen. Such material will always be relevant, as it combines not only the practicality of operation but also a rich appearance. Most often, granite or marble is used as a raw material for the manufacture of countertops. These are expensive types of stone, but they are not inferior in durability to other materials. It is important to choose the right manufacturer since the beauty and reliability of the countertop will depend on the raw materials. So, if you need a countertop made of natural stone, including marble, then you will definitely be helped. High-quality products and low prices will please you. You can choose the size of the countertop, shade, thickness and other technical characteristics. Consider what qualities and positive properties marble countertop have, and what disadvantages of application can be distinguished.
Chemical composition and properties of marble
Marble is a product of the recrystallization of calcite (limestone) or dolomite. The transformation process lasts no less than millions of years! In the bowels of the earth, heating and pressing of the rock occurs, which makes the final product a homogeneous block.
In addition to the main components, marble can include feldspar, limonite, quartz, chalcedony, pyrite, hematite, and kaolin. Their number is not very large, but it is from impurities that the colour depends since in its pure form marble is simply white.
Also, the operating properties depend on them. If there is a lot of
quartz in marble, then it will be more difficult to process it, but the products come out more durable.
And in general, any marble is on the 3rd or 4th step on the Mohs scale, depending on the main mineral (calcite or dolomite).
Of course, marble can not be called a very durable material, but on the other hand, it is very easy to process and that is why such beautiful sculptures are obtained from it as if cast in forms.
Do not be afraid that marble is not the hardest of stones. It serves for a very, very long time. In its original form, it is able to stand for at least a century. And this is a very good indicator.
Marble is also able to transmit light. In some species, the depth of the "glow" reaches four centimetres, which gives the product extraordinary nobility and beauty.
Advantages and disadvantages of a marble countertop
Working surfaces made of this stone have many advantages. The first is beauty. Each countertop is unique because two identical marble slabs do not exist in nature. Therefore, you can choose the shade that you will like.
Proper lighting will emphasize the texture of marble and give the interior of the kitchen a special expressiveness. Like any other natural material, the stone will not cause allergic reactions, and in the heat, it retains a pleasant coolness.
As experts assure, with proper care, the marble top of the kitchen set will serve you as long as any other countertop made of natural stone.
A significant drawback of all-
natural stone countertops is the high price. Even the most budget option will cost more than any analogue, whether it is an artificial stone or a wooden array.
It is very important to keep in mind that the marble countertop requires extremely careful handling and special care. You can not put hot dishes on it - traces may remain.
Marble is a porous material, so it easily absorbs any stains. Spilt coffee, tea, wine or juice can leave traces that will be very difficult to get rid of. Any acid can spoil a stone countertop, whether it is a slice of lemon or a drop of vinegar.
Any liquid spilt on the marble surface must be immediately removed, thoroughly wash the affected area with clean water and blot with a towel. In some cases, only special cleaners can remove stains.
How do distinguish natural marble from artificial marble and which one is better?
In addition to natural stone, there is now an artificial one made of marble chips. The technology of making artificial marble is about the same as that of quartz agglomerate, which you can read about here: link
In general, this material is very good, but, it is completely devoid of natural "glow" and its colours are not so interesting. And the rest, +is no worse and even a little denser than natural. True, the price for it is higher.
Therefore, in our opinion, there are no grounds for overpayment, because the natural stone has been serving for at least a century. Why overpay for something you won't be able to use in 100 years?
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