Marble Countertops Pros and Cons: A Comprehensive Guide


By Artem Kropovinsky, Interior Designer and Founder of Arsight |
December 26, 2023

Are planning a home remodeling project? You would agree that countertops and shelves are one of the most useful things. We can use it for decoration, preparing meals, as a tabletop and the list goes on. With so many uses, it is not a good idea to compromise on the quality and aesthetics.

Jens Bösenberg

An Insight into Marble Countertops

Marble is a natural material with distinct properties that make it ideal for home décor purposes. Available in a huge variety, marble can be best for creating minimalist designs or aesthetically appealing interiors. Whatever interior theme you may have, you can certainly find a perfect marble color and veining style that will complement your surroundings.

Marble Countertop Installation

If you are planning to install marble countertops, you should know that the heavy stone requires a strong base for support. Marble installation can be ideally done using professional equipment like sharp blades and disc-shaped saws. Using water while cutting marble can speed up the process and minimize dust discharge. However, for a safe operation, you must protect yourself with a gas mask, earbuds, and goggles.

If you don’t have any experience handling natural stone installation, you must hire a professional. For that, you may get in touch with Arsight – a world-leading interior design firm. You must understand that marble installation is a challenging task as it requires exact measurements and pro skills. A layman may end up wasting time and resources.

João Morgado

Marble Countertop Durability

Interior remodeling projects are all about aesthetics, quality, and price. So, when installing marble countertops, you must be well-informed about their quality and durability. Architects and civil engineers endorse marble for its ability to last for a century (with proper maintenance).

Finding the Perfect Marble for Your Countertops

Finding the perfect marble for your countertops depends on your preferences, requirements, and lifestyle. You may find a huge marble variety in the market; however, it is important to know the specifics to make the right decision. 

  • White marble promises highly appealing aesthetics 
  • Seamless installation will add more value to the marble countertops. So, opt for a marble color that won't make the slab joining spaces obvious. 
  • Choose the best veining pattern that complements your interior. 
  • A nice finish finish can enhance the marble countertop look. 
  • Marble countertops look great with curved edges, and you should discuss with an expert about which options are the best for the purpose. 
  • Less porous marble varieties are easy to clean and hygienic. Carrara is a great option and will offer you value for money. 
  • Be knowledgeable about different marble cuts like cross-cut and vein-cut before you finalize your option. 
  • Slide a knife on the marble to check if it causes a fissure. It will help you determine its quality and durability.

How Much Marble Countertops Cost?

The price of marble countertops varies in every part of the world. However, you must define your requirements to determine the exact cost. The average cost of marble countertops ranges between 40 to 200 USD per sq. foot. If you choose a standard option, you may calculate an estimate according to 60 to 100 USD per sq.foot. It is just the material price. 

Adding labor and installation costs will increase the marble countertop price to 3000 USD (for a medium-sized kitchen). Some people may choose premium marble varieties, so they should spare a minimum budget of 200 USD per sq. foot. While this is only the installation cost, you should also keep in mind that marble requires occasional repair and maintenance.

Marble Countertops Pros and Cons

When you visit the market to choose the best material for your countertops, you may come across many options such as marble, granite, quartz, wood, and many others. Marble is a good choice for countertops. Before making a final choice, you must explore marble countertops' pros and cons.

Leonardo Marchesi

Marble Countertops Pros

Highly Appealing

Marble countertops are available in many colors and designs, allowing you to choose the best match for your interiors. Its different vein styles and color options make it an aesthetically appealing option for your kitchen countertops. Marble countertops are polished to give them a glossy finish and beautiful texture.

Natural Stone

If you are fond of beautiful interiors, adding a natural stone countertop in your living space would be a great choice. It will reflect modernism, sophistication, and elegance.

Durable

One of the most important features to look for when choosing the best kitchen countertops is the durability. Marble countertops can last for decades with proper care and regular maintenance. However, it is important to follow a steady cleaning routine and use good-quality cleaning solutions.

Adds Greater Value to Your Home

Choosing marble countertops can add great value to your property. And if well-maintained, your property’s resale value can certainly rise.

Mark Wickens

Heat Resistant

If you plan to install marble countertops in your kitchen, you must be mindful of the heat-resistant factor. Marble is fire-resistant, so it is ideal for kitchen countertops. You may use coasters to place hot utensils as it may cause discoloration.

Marble Countertop Cons

Professional Installation

Marble countertops require professional installation that can cost you an arm and leg.

Stain Easily

Any food spills can easily stain the marble countertops, especially acidic foods like lemon, vinegar, etc. For, this you may have to properly seal the surface.

Suspectable to Cracking

Marble, although a natural stone, is softer than granite, so vulnerable to cracking. It may also scratch easily with sharp objects and requires careful handling.

Costly

Marble is a high-priced material that requires professional installation and regular maintenance.

Takeaway

Marble is a valuable and unique material for countertops; however, you will require a handsome budget for it. Marble countertop benefits outweigh its drawbacks, so it's worth the price.

Artem Kropovinsky is an author, interior designer and the founder of Arsight, a globally award-winning design firm based in New York. With over decade of experience, Arsight specializes in complex projects, including new constructions, complete residential renovations, restaurants, and retail stores.