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Marble cleaning tip

Marble tile is made by cutting large marble rock pieces according to the required sizes. Marble is a metamorphic rock made from metamorphosis of limestone which contains mainly calcium carbonate. Marble tile is not as hard as other hard stone tiles like granite and thus needs more care in handling and cleaning than other hard stone tiles. Still marble is preferred by many due to its exquisite natural beauty, easy maintenance and longevity.

With proper care marble will wear well and last for hundreds of years. However, it is a porous substance and sensitive to acid containing substances like wine, coffee and juices. It can stain and etch more easily as compared to other stones. After you have spent a lot on your marble flooring it is reasonable that you should want to take good care of it to maintain its beauty. Here are some care and cleaning tips for marble tiles and countertops used in the home.

To reduce the sensitivity of marble due to its porosity its surface can be sealed. This is best done professionally. Sealing is done especially for marble countertops. It is done with a paste or sealer to prevent stains and grime being absorbed through its porous surface. Applying a light coat of wax also prevents water or liquid penetration. However white marble can turn yellow on being waxed. Polished marble tiles are easily scratched by grit brought in by shoes. To prevent this you must use large mats at each entrance. The mats should be vacuumed or shaken out regularly. The floor should be mopped or vacuumed regularly to keep it free from dust and grit.

To prevent the marble tile from getting stained use plastic mats below wood and metal furniture's. The wood will leach tannins and stain the tiles and metals will rust and stain marble tile floor. Avoid using rubber pads under the rugs as rubber which contains sulfur can also stain. The moment anything spills on the marble tiles it should be removed. Acids contained in food and beverage items will dissolve the calcium carbonate and leave ugly spots.