Tips and Maintenance of Marble Tile
Marble is one of the most well-known and recognizable decorative stones used of all time, and has been used for centuries. A metamorphic rock created from limestone put under immense pressure for long periods of time, marble is a surprisingly fragile stone and is also incredibly absorbent, contrary to most other stones and minerals. This makes it a rather unique material, and it requires a specific set of rules and guidelines to keep it looking as beautiful and shining as it was when it was brand new.
To prevent any major, long-lasting damage, it may be a good idea to apply a light coat of wax to the surface to help shield the stone from spills, stains, dust and other dirt and grime that could damage or steal the glow from your floor. The wax is purely option, however as it will not gain anymore luster from the wax since it is already extremely shiny and tends to glow. The glow will not last, however, if you do not take care of it. Prone to staining, etching, scratching and other discoloration from even the simplest spills if they are not cleaned up immediately, it is important to keep in mind a few very simple tips to maintain it.
The best way to maintain marble tiles is to keep a vigilant attitude about the minor irritants that could create damage over long periods of time without attracting immediate attention until it’s too late. Dust mopping and sweeping daily helps keep small particulates and dust away, then carefully wiping it clean with a soft cloth and lukewarm water, or using a very mild, non-abrasive, non-acidic cleaner. The surface should then be thoroughly rinsed and buffed to dry to prevent speckling, uneven wear or any other damage the water could have on the porous surface.
Because of the fragile nature of marble, it is also a very good idea to start thinking about soft area rugs beneath the feet of furniture or just outside of the area where the marble is installed; this will prevent fine dirt and particles to be tracked into the area and possibly ground into the stone, cutting and scratching it with fine markings until the marble seems cloudy or dirty, even after a thorough cleaning. Other pieces of furniture should be set on soft coasters to prevent gouging, and if they need to be moved, please remember to properly lift the item, walk across the room, then carefully set it down, since dragging it across the floor could leave catastrophic looking marks in the natural stone. Hopefully by adhering to these rather simple tips, you can properly understand the needs of this beautiful stone, and just how to keep is dazzling for many years to come.