Countertops And Cabinets » Marble Countertop http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com Kitchen Countertops, Kitchen Cabinets, Bathroom Vanity, Bathroom Countertop, Bathroom Vanity Countertops, Bathroom Vanity Cabinets News, Info, Design and Decorating Ideas Mon, 13 Apr 2009 23:58:59 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 Marble Bathroom Countertops Dazzle http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com/marble-bathroom-countertops-dazzle http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com/marble-bathroom-countertops-dazzle#comments Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:13:59 +0000 admin http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com/marble-bathroom-countertops-dazzle Marble really shines in the bathroom whether for vanity countertops or shower walls, especially in powder rooms and guest baths where a homeowner is likely to utilize the vast array of colors and sophisticated patterns.

A protective penetrating sealer, applied by a professional, will ensure your marble bathroom countertops longevity and lasting beauty.

However, to keep the bright, flawless appearance of your marble surface there should be regular maintenance of marble. The biggest issue with bathroom maintenance is soap scum. Keeping a squeegie handy and using it often is one way to alleviate this problem.

But if the inevitable soap scum shuld buildup on your marble counter top or walls the best way to remove it is with a packaged soap-scum remover or a solution of a 1/2 cup of ammonia to a full gallon of water, this should be mixed with care. The over use of ammonia can over time dull even the brightest marble countertop or wall surface.

Since marble has earned is stauts as the most elegant of nature’s offerings it is worth a look. Like granite, that it is often compared to, marble is available in wide range of dazzling colors and patterns for marble bathroom countertops, marble vanity countertops or walls.

]]> http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com/marble-bathroom-countertops-dazzle/feed 0 Marble Countertop And Black Travertine Counter tops http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com/marble-countertop-and-black-travertine-counter-tops http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com/marble-countertop-and-black-travertine-counter-tops#comments Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:27:20 +0000 admin http://www.countertops-and-cabinets.com/marble-countertop-and-black-travertine-counter-tops Because of their classy looks black travertine countertops are often considered by many home owners. Travertine is in the calcite-based family of marble and as such it’s use as a kitchen countertop is debated and generally not recommended. The reason for this is that travertine is susceptible to etching by acidic substances and foods.

In general the characteristics of Marble as a counter material, also applies to Travertine. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of Marble and Travertine countertops for the kitchen.

Travertine Countertop Advantages

Small scratches can be buffed out of a travertine countertop
It is Usually sealed to prevent staining and etching, though this process may have to be repeated regularly.

Travertine Countertop Disadvantages

Travertine countertops can be etched by acids
Travertine also can scratch easily

(some interior designers feel travertine is suitable for kitchens. See
discussion below under “ Specific References.”)

MARBLE

Marble countetops are generally not recommended for kitchens.

Marble Countertop Advantages

The beauty and depth of color marble can be breath taking.
A smooth non stick finish is a positive characteristic of this natural stone.

Marble Countertop Disadvantages

Marble is soft.
A regular application of sealant will be required.
Marble can be etched by acids such as vinegar
It is susceptible to oil stains and rust stains,
Marble countertops can lose shine with hard wear (usually only a problem in marble
floors)
Efflorescence – appears as a white powdery residue on the surface of the stone – a reaction to water.

Marble Countertop Alternative

Serpentine, which is not a true marble, but a green marble look alike is often used in kitchens instead because it does not react to acids. However, unlike marble and travertine countertops it does not come in black.

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