So I did my little experiment with some samples of white marbles from our supplier. Here is the run down of of my findings, and keep in mind I really did abuse it, but I wanted to see what the worst case serious was.
Wine: Stains, little spots here and there are not bad, but if there is a drip on the ring of the glass then be prepared for something like this...
Coffee: While coffee does satin the marble as well it leaves a light yellow mark, unless you know it is there then I really think you will be OK with those. No image since it really does blend in, but yes, it does stain.
Citrus Fruits: What is the worst thing you can put on a marble surface? Try lemons, limes, or any citrus fruit. This isn't a stain or spot that I could look past, it ate away at the polish so there is a texture left. This is bad...very very bad.
Citrus Fruits: What is the worst thing you can put on a marble surface? Try lemons, limes, or any citrus fruit. This isn't a stain or spot that I could look past, it ate away at the polish so there is a texture left. This is bad...very very bad.
Blood: OK, so from cutting steak, not human. We grilled up some flank steak the other night and I left the cutting board on top of the sample, the juices ran across the edge and this is what is left...
Durability: Softer than granite, it scratches when you drag something across it or cut on it (and yes, I know, use a cutting board, but this is my little experiment). Too difficult to get my point across with a pic. The great thing about it being a light color is it will hide the scratches more so than a darker slab.
So, am I crazy enough to use this as a counter-top material in my kitchen? I do keep a very clean and tidy house so I know that the staining will be kept to a minimum. But will I be able to consider the marks and scratches patina, like a well loved leather chair, it can get better with age? To be honest, the citrus test is something I am really going to have to consider...that my friends might just be the deal breaker.
What would you do? Go for it, make a rule of only white foods & drinks in the home, or run as fast as you can away from the maintenance and care that it will take to maintain? Mel xo
What would you do? Go for it, make a rule of only white foods & drinks in the home, or run as fast as you can away from the maintenance and care that it will take to maintain? Mel xo
16 comments:
thanks for doing the homework so i don't have to;) i think the citrus test is a dealbreaker.
yikes. the citrus is rather a bad deal. Guess we don't use much citrus.
I don't think I could deal with it...it would drive me crazy! Especially with things like citrus!
Thanks for testing this out! I'm a bit crazy about keeping my things looking new, so I'd be terrified of having marble. I love the look of it, but I think I probably really would start to insist on all white food! My husband will thank me for going with something more durable :)
Very very good to know! Thanks for experimenting! I would love to get your thoughts along the way as we move along in the building process. I admire your taste and have loved getting to know you via our blogs!
Blessings.
j
www.gfinkfamily.blogspot.com
Beneath the Acacia Tree
Great post! No I would not do it, I love the look but take a picture the first day it's installed because it will never look like that again.
I could not deal with the cost of marble and the possibility of "ruining" it with citrus or staining it.
Our Concrete counters stain a bit and wear with age, but I like that worn in look and its a brownish color so it goes. With white marble I think any mark would stick out like a sore thumb. Good luck with your choice!
Skip it. It'll make you crazy! Every time you have guests over, you'll be following their wineglasses with a dishcloth. And the citrus thing....definite dealbreaker!
It'd be a deal breaker for me, too. Realistically, marble seems to be ideal in a home where the kitchen is there for show, but not for use. I have a neighbor like that. Has a gourmet kitchen and admits they really never use it.
You sound like you like to entertain, relax and have fun. I wouldn't be willing to cut the limes or red wine from my parties.
It does look beautiful when shiny and new, but after your tests I fear it wouldn't last if you actually want to use and enjoy your home. I think something more family friendly would be better in a home with young children.
I heard a story that Gwyneth Paltrow (I think it was her) took a can of tomatoes and spread it all over her marble. Get the staining over with and consistent!
I just love your 'test' ...I am actually glad i never thought of that or I would have selected another stone. Having said that...I covered every countertop with marble & must say have had several 'testers' applied to them & I still LOVE my white Carrara countertops!!! We just listed our house only to build again & my next 'dream kitchen' will also be covered in marble!! I say go for it :-)
I think I am going to use white marble in my next kitchen--- but honed. So you won't have to worry about the citrus taking the polish off!
Think about using soapstone. We have it in one of our kitchens and really like it. We've had it for four years now. It does require oiling about once a month (more at first).
Of course dark countertops show light colored crumbs.
What about tomatoes, since they are on the acidic side would they leave stain marks or texture issues? (we love salsa and red sauce at our house so this would be a huge potential issue) For me this would be a deal breaker, I am a neat freak and trying to keep it up would put me over the edge.
I'm a HUGE fan of white marble (specifically carerra)and I think you should deal with the patina. If you continue to be concerned about the staining maybe use it only on the countertops and use a different material on the island. The island is most likely the dumping ground for things and the logical place that guests will set their wine glasses so try a different more durable material there. The best houses are those that are lived in...makes it feel like a home. Therefore I say go with what you love and don't fret over the possible stains and marks that add character.
I think I would have to skip it, mostly because you like a clean house, like every designer says " its the little things that count", stains would drive you nuts!!!
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