subject: What Is Marble And How Is It Maintained? [print this page] Marble, a world derived from Greek that means "shining stone," is widely used in home building materials as well as sculpture. Technically speaking, marble is a metamorphic rock composed of re-crystallized carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. In other words: marble is one of nature's wonders: a rare and beautiful material that is as functional as it is attractive. These qualities make marble the traditional choice for tables, counter tops, lamps, windowsills, walls and fireplaces. But caring for marble is essential to keep it beautiful for the long term. It is good to note, however, that after normal home use marble may dull slightly.
What Is the Best Way to Keep Marble Shining?:
Caring for marble is relatively easy with the right technique and the right cleaning materials. Wash your marble with clean cloths and fresh lukewarm water. Twice a year wash it with mild detergent as an additional safeguard to remove any residual dirt, which can become ingrained. You can also use specialized products to clean your marble, such as a marble polish.
What Are the Problems That Can Occur in Marble?:
There are three distinct types of problems that occur with marble: soiling, stains, and etching.
Soiling is a haze or film caused by smoke, soot, dirt, dust, etc., which dulls the stone. Soil does not penetrate the marble but simply lies on the surface.
Blemishes and discoloration are caused by colored material penetrating the marble. Tea, coffee, tobacco, ink, soft drinks, color from paper or textiles can all stain marble. Oily materials such as milk, salad dressing, meat, hand cream, etc., can also cause severe staining.
Etching is caused by the action of acids on marble and causing some of the marble to be eaten away. Alcohol, wine, beer, fruit juices, soft drinks, condiments and salad dressings can all etch marble. Rings and dull spots are usually etch marks. An etched surface feels rough or depressed to the touch.
How Can I Restore My Marble?:
For soiling, apply your marble polish to a soft cloth. Wipe the marble surface until all soil has been removed, and its luster and veining is bright and clear.
For staining, most stains can be removed with the application of a poultice. Drawing out a stain may take from 15 minutes to 24 hours, depending on the age and the severity of the stain. Use your marble polish to polish and protect the marble. Organic stains are caused by tea, coffee, soft drinks that have no citric acid, wet bark, flowers, leeched colors from paper or textiles. Wash with clear water. Apply poultice of hair-bleach strength hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia. Oil stains are caused by butter, milk, cream, salad oils, peanut butter, meat scraps, mustard, hand cream, modeling clay, etc. Wipe off with cloth dampened with ammonia. Apply poultice of equal part amyl acetate (available in drug stores) and acetone.
If an area is etched and feels rough, or a cavity has formed, it will be necessary to polish the marble. Putty powder, sometimes called tin oxide, can be used to polish dulled or etched surfaces. Rub on the putty powder with a damp cloth, folding and refolding to clean damp areas. An electric polisher is preferred for buffing. If surfaces are severely scratched or etched, always call a professional.
