TOP 5 MYTHS ABOUT MARBLE YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE BUYING
Among the many choices available, marble remains one of the most timeless and sophisticated options. Despite its long-standing history in design, several myths about marble can cloud judgment. Let’s clear up the top 5 misconceptions surrounding marble, ensuring you can make informed design decisions.
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Myth: Marble is Fragile and Prone to Cracking
One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that marble is fragile and prone to cracking. However, this is far from the truth. While marble is softer than granite, it is by no means fragile. With careful selection and installation, marble can withstand significant use, particularly in countertops and flooring. Some varieties are denser and more resilient than others.
The endurance of marble is evident in historical buildings, where it has stood the test of time for centuries with proper care. Here are some remarkable examples:
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The Parthenon (Athens, Greece, 447–432 BCE) – Built with Pentelic marble, this ancient temple has endured for over 2,400 years despite exposure to weather and pollution.
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The Pantheon (Rome, Italy, 113–125 CE) – Featuring marble flooring and columns, this Roman masterpiece still stands strong nearly 2,000 years after its construction.
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Taj Mahal (Agra, India, 1632–1653) – Made of Makrana marble, this iconic mausoleum has retained its beauty for nearly 400 years, despite environmental challenges.
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Myth: Marble is Too High-Maintenance
Designers often steer clients away from marble, fearing it requires excessive maintenance. While it’s true that marble needs sealing to prevent staining, it isn’t as labor-intensive as many believe. Regular sealing and proper care—such as using pH-neutral cleaners—ensure marble retains its beauty with minimal upkeep. Advanced sealants also significantly reduce marble’s susceptibility to stains, making it practical for residential and commercial use.
Check out our Care and Cleaning guide below to learn more about proper stone care and maintenance:
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Myth: Marble is Easily Stained
Marble’s porous nature is often cited as a reason to avoid it. However, marble’s resistance to stains improves significantly with proper sealing and care. Choosing a denser marble variety for high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops or flooring can reduce staining risks. The slight patina marble develops over time is often viewed as a desirable feature, especially in designs that celebrate natural stone's timeless and evolving beauty.
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Myth: Marble Is Only Available in White
While white marble, such as Carrara or Calacatta, is iconic, marble comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. From deep greens to rich reds, there's a marble to suit almost any style. What's more, marble's veining and patterns are so unique, making each slab a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that adds a touch of luxury to any design.
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Myth: Marble Only Comes in a Glossy, Polished Finish
Many people assume that marble only has a high-gloss, polished look, but in reality, it is available in a variety of finishes to suit different styles and functional needs. Honed marble, for example, has a matte, satin-like surface that softens reflections and helps conceal scratches, making it an excellent choice for flooring and high-traffic areas. Leathered marble provides a textured, slightly rustic feel, making it ideal for countertops and accent pieces. It also works well in bathrooms or other spaces where slip resistance would be added.
Different finishes not only alter the appearance of marble but also affect its performance, allowing for greater customization based on design preferences and practical considerations.
Conclusion
Understanding the truth behind these myths is essential when specifying marble for your projects. Marble continues to be a classic, reliable choice for those seeking elegance, timeless beauty, and uniqueness. By debunking these misconceptions, you can confidently integrate marble into your plans and guide clients in making informed decisions.
Whether you're working on residential or commercial projects, marble remains a premium material that combines luxury and functionality. There is no substitute for its natural beauty.
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