Carved in stone

Think of marble and inevitably classic sculpture comes to mind. But the marble look is making a comeback with modern applications and unusual designs. Here’s VISI’s guide to the material of the moment.

Marble’s natural, timeless beauty adds a luxurious ambience to bathrooms, countertops, floors, walls and fireplace surrounds. But it must be looked after well to remain looking its best for decades. Follow these key steps:

  1. Apply a sealant: Take the advice of your installer on the correct product to use, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, and whether or not this is even necessary for the marble you have chosen. Sealants can protect porous marble but can also cause discolouration over time.
  2. Clean spills fast: Acids from drinks or food can etch the surface. Blot up spills immediately with a soft cloth or paper towel.
  3. Wash and polish wisely: Use warm, not hot, water and mild dishwashing liquid to clean. Occasionally use a marble wax to restore gleam.
  4. Protect against scratches: Use coasters for glasses and placemats under dishes. Place pads under the legs of furniture on marble tiles and position house plants on stands. Also ensure the moving parts in your vacuum cleaner aren’t worn.
  5. Use marble polishing powder: This is the best way to remove scratches and etching. Use a clean, damp cloth to carefully rub the powder into the pre-cleaned area until etching disappears. Call in the professionals if the damage is severe.

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Marble’s natural, timeless beauty adds a luxurious ambience to bathrooms, countertops, floors, walls and fireplace surrounds. But it must be looked after well to remain looking its best for decades. Follow these key steps:1.  Apply a sealant: Take the advice of your installer on the correct product to use, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, and whether or not this is even necessary for the marble you have chosen. Sealants can protect porous marble but can also cause discolouration over time.2. Clean spills fast: Acids from drinks or food can etch the surface. Blot up spills immediately with a soft cloth or paper towel.3. Wash and polish wisely: Use warm, not hot, water and mild dishwashing liquid to clean. Occasionally use a marble wax to restore gleam.4. Protect against scratches: Use coasters for glasses and placemats under dishes. Place pads under the legs of furniture on marble tiles and position house plants on stands. Also ensure the moving parts in your vacuum cleaner aren’t worn.5. Use marble polishing powder: This is the best way to remove scratches and etching. Use a clean, damp cloth to carefully rub the powder into the pre-cleaned area until etching disappears. Call in the professionals if the damage is severe.