Marble Countertops Kitchen

marble Countertops in Chicago Area

Best Prices for Marble Countertops - A Timeless Choice for Your Home

If you are looking for a way to add elegance and sophistication to your kitchen or bathroom, you might want to consider marble countertops. Marble is a natural stone that has been used for centuries in architecture and sculpture, and it can bring a touch of luxury and beauty to any space.
If you’re looking for marble countertops for sale in Chicago, you’ve come to the right place. With a location in Barrington, Marble & Granite Tech Inc. proudly serves customers in the Chicago area and throughout Northern Illinois. Get the best deals for Marble Counter Tops. Visit our showroom to discover our amazing collection today.

What is marble and how are marble slabs for countertops manufactured?

Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone or dolomite (a type of carbonate rock) is subjected to high heat and pressure deep in the earth's crust. This process causes the minerals in the original rock to recrystallize and form a new rock with a crystalline texture and varying colors and patterns. Marble is typically white, gray, or beige, but it can also have hues of pink, green, red, black, blue, gold, brown, and more. The characteristic swirls and veins of marble are caused by impurities such as clay, silt, sand, iron oxides, or chert that were present in the original rock.

Marble slabs for countertops are manufactured by cutting large blocks of marble from quarries around the world. The blocks are then sliced into thin pieces called slabs by using special saws that can cut through the hard and dense stone. The slabs are then polished and shaped to fit the desired dimensions and edge profiles of the countertops. Some slabs may also undergo treatments such as honing, sealing, or staining to enhance their appearance and durability.

Marble Kitchen Countertops
Marble Kitchen Countertops

Are Marble Countertops Worth the Investment?

Marble countertops, with their timeless elegance, luxurious appearance, and unique natural patterns, can be a worthwhile investment for those seeking to enhance the aesthetic appeal and value of their homes.

Ideal for cooking activities due to their cool surface, marble countertops also offer durability and longevity when properly cared for and sealed. However, it is essential to weigh the pros against the cons before deciding if marble countertops are worth it.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in marble countertops depends on individual preferences, lifestyle considerations, and a commitment to proper care and maintenance

The Pros and Cons of Marble Countertops

Marble countertops have many advantages that make them a popular choice for homeowners. Some of the benefits of marble countertops are:

  • Look: Nothing can rival the look of marble countertops. They have a richness and a character that other materials can’t match. The veining and the color variations add interest and charm to any space. Marble countertops can also brighten up a room and make it look bigger and more spacious.
  • Great for cooking: Marble countertops are cool to the touch, which makes them ideal for baking and other cooking activities. You can roll out dough, make pastry, or temper chocolate on a marble surface without worrying about sticking or melting.
  • Added value: Marble countertops can increase the value of your home, as they are considered a luxury item. Many buyers are attracted to the timeless appeal and the quality of marble countertops. They can also create a sense of additional value and prestige.
  • Longevity: Marble countertops can last a long time if they are properly cared for and sealed. Marble is a durable and strong stone that can withstand wear and tear. It can also develop a natural patina over time, which adds to its beauty and character.

However, marble countertops also have some disadvantages that you should consider before installing them. Some of the drawbacks of marble countertops are:

  • Porous: Marble countertops are porous, which means they can absorb liquids and stains easily. This can cause discoloration, dullness, and damage to the surface. To prevent this, you need to seal your marble countertops at least once a year, and clean up any spills immediately. You also need to avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can etch and scratch the marble.
  • Soft: Marble countertops are softer than other stones, such as granite or quartz. This means they can be scratched, chipped, or cracked by knives, pots, pans, or other objects. You need to use cutting boards, trivets, and mats to protect your marble countertops from damage. You also need to be careful not to drop or hit anything heavy on them.
  • Cost: Marble countertops are more expensive than other countertop options, such as laminate or solid surface. The price of marble countertops depends on the type, grade, size, and installation of the slab. The average cost of marble countertops is $60 per square foot, but it can range from $40 to $100 per square foot. You also need to factor in the cost of labor, sealing, and maintenance.

The Current Trends and Colors of Marble Countertops

Marble countertops, revered for their timeless elegance, seamlessly blend with modern design sensibilities. Elevate your space by incorporating these contemporary trends and colors, adding a touch of freshness to the classic allure of marble:

  1. Contrasting Veining and Backgrounds:
    Embrace the sophistication of contrasting veining against lighter or darker marble backgrounds. This trend creates a visually striking dynamic, infusing a modern aesthetic into your countertops and making them stand out as focal points in your kitchen or bathroom.
  2. Bold and Dramatic Choices:
    Step away from traditional subtlety and opt for marbles with intense veining, distinct patterns, or vibrant hues. Bold choices in marble countertops are gaining popularity, allowing homeowners to make a powerful statement in their interior designs.
  3. Unconventional Color Palettes:
    While classic white and gray marbles remain evergreen, there's a growing trend towards exploring unconventional hues. Soft pastels like blush pinks and muted greens offer a subtle yet unique touch, while deep, moody tones such as rich blues and forest greens add depth and sophistication to contemporary spaces.

The versatility of marble allows for a harmonious blend of these trends, enabling homeowners to personalize their countertops according to individual style preferences. Whether it's through bold contrasts, intense veining, or unconventional colors, staying abreast of these trends ensures your marble countertops remain not only timeless but also on the cutting edge of modern design.

How to Use and Maintain Marble Countertops

If you decide to install marble countertops in your home, you need to know how to use and maintain them properly. Here are some tips to keep your marble countertops in good shape.

Sealing Your Marble Countertops. Sealing is imperative to prevent staining and etching. Apply a commercial or natural sealer—made of beeswax and mineral oil—following the manufacturer's instructions. Seal immediately after installation and reseal annually or as needed.

Cleaning Your Marble Countertops. Regular cleaning is essential for a shiny and hygienic surface. Wipe daily with a damp cloth or sponge, using mild soap or a stone cleaner weekly. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach to prevent damage. Rinse and dry after cleaning to avoid water spots and streaks.

Marble Countertop Slab Image
Marble Countertop Slab Image

Removing Stains from Your Marble Countertops

While marble countertops exude timeless beauty, they are susceptible to stains. Prompt action is crucial to maintain the pristine appearance of your marble surfaces. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to effectively remove stains from your marble countertops:

  1. Identify the Stain Type:
    Before attempting any stain removal, identify the type of stain on your marble surface. Stains can be classified as organic like food stains, beverages stains, inorganic i.e.: metal, ink, or oil-based. Knowing the stain's nature helps determine the appropriate cleaning approach.
  2. Gentle Cleaning Solutions:
    To combat organic stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, applying it to the stain, covering with plastic wrap, and letting it sit for 24-48 hours. For inorganic stains, mix hydrogen peroxide with ammonia, test it in an inconspicuous spot before applying, then rinse, dry, and consider resealing the marble for preventative measures against future stains.
  3. Oil-Based Stain Removal:
    Address oil-based stains with a mixture of baking soda and acetone or hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the stain, cover, and let it sit for a day. Exercise caution with abrasive or acidic substances to prevent damage to the marble surface.
Your Questions, Our Answers: Navigating the World of Quartz, Granite and Quartzite Countertops

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What is the cost of a marble countertop?
Marble countertop prices range from $60 to $200 per square foot on average, varying based on slab type, grade, size, and installation
Do marble countertops last?
Yes, marble countertops can last over 100 years with proper maintenance. They resist heat, scratches, and cracks. Sealing annually and using mild, non-abrasive products, along with protective measures like trivets, mats, coasters, and cutting boards, helps maintain their durability.
Are marble countertops suitable for outdoor use?
Marble countertops can be used outdoors with extra care. While they withstand the elements, exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, and UV rays may cause fading, cracking, or warping. Opt for a honed or textured finish to prevent slipping and wear.
What are the pros of marble countertops?
Stunning aesthetic, ideal for cooking activities, adds home value, longevity, and natural patina development over time.
What are the cons of marble countertops?
Porous, requires sealing, softer than some stones, can be scratched or chipped, and comes at a higher cost.
How to use and maintain marble countertops?
Seal them to prevent stains, clean with mild soap, avoid acidic cleaners, and promptly wipe spills to maintain their pristine appearance.
Can marble countertops be repaired if damaged?
Minor scratches can be polished out, chips or cracks may need professional repair, and preventive care, including regular sealing, can minimize damage and repair needs.
How to remove stains from marble countertops?
Identify stain type, use a baking soda paste for organic stains, and a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia for inorganic stains. Exercise caution to avoid damage.
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Custom Granite & Marble Countertops

Marble & Granite Tech, Inc. has been creating natural stone countertops for decades. We fabricate countertops and vanities for kitchens, bathrooms and bars. We can also create outdoor living areas, tables, accent pieces, fireplace surrounds and desks. We precisely fabricate and expertly install granite and quartz countertops using our patented vein-matching technology, along with a range of specialty stones including marble. If you’d like to update your countertops and cabinets, please peruse our website. We also invite you to experience our exquisite showroom in Barrington, Illinois, where you can immerse yourself in a captivating array of materials. Discover an extensive selection of granite, marble, quartz, quartzite, and porcelain slabs, complemented by a diverse collection of samples from various trusted suppliers. Come and explore the possibilities and find the perfect material for your dream project.

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