HGTV's Property Brothers Highlight A Major Downside To Marble Countertops
Marble counters are a symbol of luxury, and their timeless beauty makes them an especially desirable investment. After all, who doesn't want a kitchen that stays eternally gorgeous over the years? However, home improvement experts Jonathan and Drew Scott, a.k.a. the Property Brothers, are all too familiar with the downsides of marble. Because of this, the HGTV stars caution homeowners to think twice before investing in this stone for their counter surfaces, which has a propensity for stains if handled incorrectly.
Jonathan Scott shared his take on marble countertops on an episode of "Celebrity IOU" with Heidi Klum. The model admitted that installing real marble in her kitchen was a "dumb" decision, and Jonathan didn't argue. He pointed out that many homeowners insist on using the costly material for their counter surfaces without realizing how easily it can become discolored. "So many people are like, 'I need real marble imported from Italy,' and I'm like, 'You get a glass of water, it stains,'" said Jonathan.
Another type of countertop the Property Brothers warn homeowners to avoid, especially in the kitchen, is laminate. This material may be more budget-friendly than others, but it automatically gives the room a "dated" aesthetic that the Scott brothers argue could actually lower your home's value. In the "Celebrity IOU" episode, Jonathan recommended installing a different type of surface instead. The Property Brothers recommend opting for quartz countertops because, even though they look like natural stone, they are much easier to install and maintain.
Still want marble counters? Here's what you need to know
If you have your heart set on marble counters, or if you already have them installed in your home, there are measures you can take to keep them in pristine condition.
Firstly, you should know the common mistakes to avoid if you have marble countertops, such as using acidic cleaners or failing to wipe up spills as soon as they happen. Marble is a porous material and should be sealed regularly to prevent stains. However, sealing your countertops won't prevent etching, which are dull spots that form on marble where acidic substances have seeped in. That's why it's important to clean up messes right away, and avoid cleaners with citrus or vinegar. Even regular household cleaners should be avoided. Instead, use products made specifically for marble stone and a soft cloth to avoid etching.
Other ways you may inadvertently damage your marble is by slicing and handling food directly on the surface, or by placing hot cookware from the oven onto the counter without something underneath it. Even though marble is heat resistant, it is best to err on the side of caution to avoid damaging its surface. You should also refrain from placing heavy objects or sitting on marble, as the weight will weaken the stone's structure over time. Considering all of this, it's clear that marble is a high-maintenance commitment, but if you can handle that, you may also love the elegant luxury it adds to your space.