What are the Most Common Marble Problems and How Can These Be Fixed?

February 21, 2017

Marble is an attractive metamorphic stone that is durable and long lasting for architectural and decor elements such as flooring, benchtops, exterior enhancements, ecclesiastical items and more. Over years of use, though, certain issues can happen if you neglect marble that will need addressing to return this stone to its ideal condition and appearance. We list the most common marble problems with their solutions in the following facts.

1. Stains

Various stains can occur on marble when you do not remove spills quickly from its surface. In addition, you need to seal marble periodically to prevent it from absorbing spills. Surface stains may come off easily with a soft cloth and mild detergent when you catch them soon enough, but stubborn ones may call for a poultice such as the one with hydrogen peroxide and baby powder. Add just enough hydrogen peroxide to the baby powder to make a paste. Apply to the stain and cover with plastic and let it set for up to 24 hours if necessary. Rinse with clean water and thoroughly dry.

2. Dull Appearance

With time or possibly poor maintenance, marble can develop a dull appearance instead of its ideal pristine shine. When this occurs, you need to call in a professional to sand if necessary, polish and seal the marble to return its lustrous sheen.

3. Etching

Etch marks are dull places from the marble coming into contact with acids. When the marks are light in nature, rubbing them with a soft cloth and a small amount of marble polishing powder typically is successful at removing these marks. Resurfacing may be necessary to remove deep etch marks.

4. White Powdery Residue or Efflorescence

If standing water occurs on the marble or at times, right after the installation of it, a white powdery residue, which is called efflorescence, appears on the marble. Water will not remove this residue. You will need to buff the stone with a clean polishing cloth or with an extra fine steel wool pad. This problem may reoccur until the marble dries completely, so you may need to repeat this process again for optimal results.

5. Cracks

Cracks in marble happen as a property settles, if it does not receive the correct installation or for other reasons. You should investigate the reasons for the cracks before proceeding to repair them otherwise, they may reoccur. At times, you can fill the cracks with a matching epoxy or polyester material, but at other times, you need a professional to repair the cracks or replace the marble.

Rely on Hallett Marble for further facts about common marble problems and how to repair them in the proper manner. We specialise in marble and other stone designs, installations and restorations for all types of residences, businesses, schools, religious structures and other buildings.

Reach us

Rear of 210 Mahoney’s Rd, Thomastown VIC 3074, Australia

Factory: Rear of 280 Mahoneys Rd Thomastown

Phone: 0425 752 462

Email: paul.hallett4@bigpond.com

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