Real Marble Countertops In NJ, PA & NY
Beautiful, soft natural stone originating from limestone
We provide industry leading real marble countertops to NJ, PA & NY. Marble is a popular natural stone used in homes due to its classic, yet in-demand style. Similar to granite, marble is removed from the earth in large chunks and then cut into individual slabs. Marble is popular because of the veining found in the slabs, which can vary from thick to thin. Marble countertops come in variations of color, but most have a white or gray background. Normally, marble slabs come with a polished finish, but textured surfaces, such as honed or leathered, are becoming more popular.
Classic Style
The geological composition of marble makes it a very soft stone, so it is more likely to chip and scratch. For this reason, Alps Craftsman recommends only using marble in certain locations that are not high-use, such as a bathroom vanity or a fireplace surround. Even if sealed, marble will quickly show its wear-and-tear if used in a kitchen or other high-traffic areas. Chips may occur on the countertops, in particular along the edges. Repairs are visible due to the less-busy patterns that are normally found in these stones. As a porous natural stone, marble must be sealed to help it be stain resistant. Pieces of marble slab countertops are joined together by seams, which will be visible. The degree to which a seam will be seen is based on the stone’s color and pattern, which help hide the seam.
Benefits of Granite
- Least expensive natural stone available
- Some colors can be used outdoors
- Repairs are less visible than othercountertop materials
- Heat and scratch resistant
Considerations
- Must seal every 6-12 months for helpwith stain resistance
- Seams will be visible
- Porous material - small divots mightexist on surface
Benefits of Marble
- Timeless beauty that remains in-demand
- Available in neutral or bold patterns
- Comes in a variety of price points
Considerations
- Very soft material that can chip and scratch easily
- Porous material so small divots might exist on surface
- Seams will be visible
- Repairs can be visible depending on stone patterning
Marble Countertop FAQs
Marble countertops are a popular choice for their unique beauty and timeless appeal. Below, we've answered some common questions to help you understand more about marble countertops, their benefits, care, and how they compare to other materials.
Marble is a type of natural stone formed from limestone that has undergone intense heat and pressure within the Earth, resulting in its distinct veining and color patterns. This transformation process, called metamorphism, gives marble its unique beauty and appeal. Primarily composed of limestone, marble also contains other minerals that contribute to its wide range of colors and variations. Extracted from the Earth in large blocks, marble is then sliced into slabs. Historically, marble has been used in construction and design for centuries, not just for countertops, but also for flooring, tiles, and decorative elements. The versatility and timeless elegance of marble have made it a popular choice in architecture and interior design across the world.
The primary benefit of marble countertops lies in their unparalleled aesthetic appeal. Marble offers a timeless and luxurious look that is difficult to replicate with engineered materials like quartz. This natural stone is prized for its unique veining and color variations. Marble brings an air of sophistication and elegance to any space, making it a favorite choice for high-end kitchens, particularly as a striking focal point on an island or as a full-height backsplash. While engineered alternatives strive to mimic marble's beauty, they can't fully capture the veining, depth, layers, and natural variations that make each marble slab one-of-a-kind. For those who appreciate the natural, authentic look and want a statement piece in their home, marble countertops are unmatched in their ability to add character and visual interest.
Marble countertops, while stunning in appearance, are not the most durable option when it comes to everyday use. Marble is a relatively soft stone, making it prone to etching, scratching, chipping, and staining.
Yes, marble countertops are porous. This means that the stone has tiny pores that can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. Because of its porous nature, marble is more susceptible to staining from substances like wine, coffee, and acidic foods. To protect marble countertops and maintain their appearance, regular sealing is recommended to create a barrier against moisture and stains. Despite being porous, with proper care and maintenance, marble can remain beautiful and functional for many years.
The best way to clean marble is with warm water and a mild soap, using a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the surface and dry it off. While there are specialized cleaners designed for natural stone, it's crucial to read the labels carefully—some may not be suitable for marble or other types of countertops. In general, keeping it simple is best; avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface. Disinfecting wipes without bleach can also be used for routine cleaning.
The frequency of sealing marble countertops depends largely on how often you use them and the types of cleaners you use. Harsh cleaners like disinfectants can break down the sealer more quickly, while gentler cleaning methods, like using soap and water, will prolong its effectiveness. Typically, marble countertops should be sealed every 6 to 18 months. However, sealing marble yourself can be tricky; it's highly recommended to hire an experienced fabricator for this task.
Yes, marble countertops are safe for food preparation and have been used in kitchens for many years. However, it's important to take precautions to protect the surface. Marble is prone to scratching, so always use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the countertop. Additionally, marble can be sensitive to heat, so it's best to use trivets or towels when placing hot items on the surface to prevent damage. With proper care, marble countertops can provide a beautiful and functional surface for food preparation.
The common finishes for marble countertops include polished and honed finishes. A polished finish gives marble its characteristic glossy, smooth surface, which enhances the stone's color and veining but makes it more susceptible to etching. Another popular finish is honed, which offers a matte, less reflective surface. While honed marble is less prone to showing etches and scratches, it still requires careful maintenance to avoid damage.
What’s Etching?
Etching occurs when acidic substances, such as coffee, citrus juices, wine, or vinegar, come into contact with the marble, causing a chemical reaction that corrodes the polished surface. This results in a dull, lighter spot where the surface layer has been removed, exposing the raw marble beneath. Unlike staining, which happens when a liquid penetrates the marble and causes discoloration, etching is a corrosive reaction that affects the stone's surface.
Yes, marble countertops can be beautifully used for backsplashes, especially when opting for a full-height backsplash that matches the countertop material. This approach is particularly striking with marble, as it allows the unique veining and patterns to become a focal point in the kitchen or bathroom. The trend of using the same material for both the countertop and backsplash remains popular, and marble’s natural beauty makes it an excellent choice for creating a cohesive and elegant look in any space.
When choosing the thickness for your marble countertop, the most common options are 2 cm and 3 cm. The choice between these thicknesses largely depends on your personal preference and the material available to create the look you want to achieve.
There are several types of marble available, each offering unique characteristics in terms of color, veining, and overall appearance. Here are the main categories:
- Carrara Marble:
- One of the most popular types of marble, especially common in bathrooms.
- Characterized by its softer, more subtle veining with a predominantly white or gray background.
- Calacatta Marble:
- Known for its bold, dramatic veining on a bright white background.
- Typically more expensive due to its striking appearance and rarity.
- Statuary Marble:
- Similar to Calacatta but with more defined, structured veins.
- Offers a classic, elegant look, often used in high-end designs.
- Crema Marble:
- A beige-toned marble that offers a warm, neutral appearance.
- Less common but popular for those seeking a more subdued, earthy look.
These categories cover the most common types of marble, with various color and pattern variations within each group having their own unique names.
Marble countertops are available in a wide range of colors, each offering its own unique aesthetic. Here are some common options:
- White and Cream:
- Most popular and widely used in both traditional and modern designs.
- Examples include Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuary marbles.
- The purity of the white background and the distinctiveness of the veining can significantly affect the price.
- Black:
- Offers a bold, dramatic look with variations in veining that can include white, gold, or gray streaks.
- Gray:
- A versatile choice that can range from light gray with subtle veining to darker, more pronounced patterns.
- Often used for a contemporary or industrial look.
- Gold and Brown:
- Some marbles, like Calacatta Gold, feature a white background with gold or brownish-gold veins, adding warmth and luxury to the space.
- The combination of a whiter background and more pronounced gold veining typically increases the price.
- Red and Other Unique Colors:
- Less common but available for those seeking a truly unique, statement-making countertop.
- These rare colors can be more expensive due to their uniqueness.
The cost of marble can vary greatly depending on the color, veining, and rarity, ranging from around $20 to $120 per square foot for the material alone.
When comparing marble to granite and quartz, several key differences stand out:
Marble:
- Generally more expensive than granite and quartz, especially for premium types.
- Known for its luxurious, unique veining and status as a high-end material.
- Softer and more prone to etching, scratching, chipping, and staining.
- Requires careful handling during fabrication and installation, leading to higher labor costs.
- Needs regular sealing and maintenance to preserve its appearance.
Granite:
- Typically less expensive than marble, with a wide range of price points.
- Offers a natural, varied appearance with more durability than marble.
- Highly resistant to heat and scratches, making it practical for high-traffic areas.
- Easier to fabricate and install compared to marble, which can reduce costs.
- Requires sealing, but is generally easier to maintain than marble.
Quartz:
- Often more affordable than marble, with the ability to mimic marble’s look.
- Engineered for consistency in pattern and color, offering a more uniform appearance.
- Extremely durable, resisting stains and scratches better than marble.
- Non-porous and requires little to no maintenance, making it the most hassle-free option.
- Easier to fabricate and install, often resulting in lower overall costs.
Contact Us About Marble Countertops Today
Marble countertops bring timeless beauty and elegance to any space, making them the perfect choice for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their home. Whether you're designing a sophisticated kitchen or a stunning bathroom, marble offers unmatched aesthetic appeal and a unique, natural charm.
Ready to elevate your home with the elegance of marble countertops? Contact Alps Craftsman today to get started on your next home improvement project!
Benefits of Granite
- Least expensive natural stone available
- Some colors can be used outdoors
- Repairs are less visible than othercountertop materials
- Heat and scratch resistant
Benefits of Granite
- Least expensive natural stone available
- Some colors can be used outdoors
- Repairs are less visible than othercountertop materials
- Heat and scratch resistant
