Marble Countertop Care & Restoration in Los Angeles | Professional Maintenance Tips

Frequently Asked Questions About Marble Countertop Care

How often should I seal my marble countertops?
In Los Angeles’s climate, we recommend sealing marble countertops every 6-12 months for kitchens and every 12-18 months for bathrooms. High-use areas may require more frequent sealing.

Can etchings on marble be repaired?
Yes! Light etching can often be removed through professional polishing.
Deeper etching may require more intensive restoration techniques, but most marble surfaces can be restored to their original beauty.

Why does my marble look dull in certain areas?
Dull spots are typically caused by etching from acidic substances or wear patterns from regular use.
These areas have lost their polish and require professional restoration to match the surrounding finish.

Is marble suitable for kitchen countertops?
Marble can be beautiful in kitchens but requires more maintenance than granite or quartz.
With proper sealing, careful use, and occasional professional maintenance, marble countertops can last decades in kitchens.

How do I clean marble countertops daily? Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone. Wipe with a soft microfiber cloth and avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.

Marble Countertop Care: Do’s and Don’ts

DO:

• Use cutting boards to protect the surface
• Clean spills immediately, especially those of acidic substances
• Use coasters under all glasses, especially those containing alcohol or citrus juices
• Use trivets or hot pads under hot cookware
• Dust surfaces frequently with a clean, soft cloth
• Use pH-neutral stone cleaners for regular maintenance

DON’T:

• Use vinegar, lemon, or citrus-based cleaners
• Apply abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
• Place hot pots or pans directly on the surface
• Drag heavy objects across the countertop
• Stand or sit on your countertops
• Use generic bathroom cleaners that contain acids or alkalis

Types of Marble and Their Specific Care Requirements

Carrara Marble This classic Italian marble with light gray veining requires frequent sealing due to its high porosity.
Carrara is particularly susceptible to etching in Los Angeles homes and should be maintained with specialized cleaners formulated for white marble.

Calacatta Marble With its dramatic, bold veining, Calacatta is less porous than Carrara but requires regular sealing. Its distinctive appearance makes stains and damage more noticeable, making prompt spill cleaning essential.

Emperador Marble: This brown marble with varying tones provides better stain resistance than lighter varieties. However, its darker coloration can show water spots more prominently, particularly with Los Angeles’ hard water.

Crema Marfil This Spanish marble, with its warm, creamy tones, has moderate porosity. Its light color makes it susceptible to staining from coffee, wine, and oils common in Southern California cuisine, making prompt cleaning crucial.

Statuario Marble This high-end Italian marble requires extra care to maintain its bright white background and dramatic veining. In Los Angeles’s sunny environments, special attention should be paid to preventing UV exposure that can yellow the stone over time.