What Is Marble Etching and How to Prevent It

marble etching and prevent it

Here at Euro Marble, we’re often asked about etching on marble. Our customers ask us what it is, what causes it and if it can be prevented and/or removed once it’s occurred. As a result, we decided to put together this article to answer the questions we’re commonly asked.

What is etching on marble?

Marble etching is physical damage to the stone, generally caused by the marble coming into contact with certain substances containing acids including coffee, citrus, wine, tomatoes, alcohol and juice. This is different to a stain as etching is actually a corrosive reaction in the stone, which removes its surface layer to reveal the raw marble beneath. Think of it as burning the top layer of the marble. As a result, the exposed area is lighter and duller than it previously was. A stain on the other hand, occurs when a liquid penetrates the marble and causes discolouration within the stone.

Can Etching Be Prevented?

The good news is that there are many ways to reduce the likelihood of your marble becoming etched. These include the below:

  • A quality marble sealer is recommended to reduce the porosity of the stone meaning quickly wiped spills are less likely to etch the stone.
  • As per the previous point, if an acidic substance does come in contact with your marble, be sure to clean it immediately with a clean, damp cloth.
  • A honed surface is less susceptible to etching than a polished finish. If you are using natural stone in an area where it’s very likely to come into contact with acidic substances such as a high-traffic kitchen benchtop, consider a honed finish for your natural stone to reduce the visibility of etching.
  • Use coasters and chopping boards to prevent food and drink coming into direct contact with the marble wherever possible.
  • Be careful what you use to clean your natural stone as many multi-purpose cleaning sprays are acidic. We recommend using a cleaning spray specifically made for treating natural stone.

Can Marble Etching Be Reversed?

Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to reverse etching on marble once it has occurred as it’s a chemical reaction. There are certain polishing products you can use but it will never be as good as new unless you hire a natural stone professional to sand down the entire surface and re-finish it. Prevention is easier than a cure when it comes to etching and natural stone!

Here at Euro Marble, we’re one of the leading providers of Italian marble and many other types of natural stone here in Australia. Drop by our Sydney showroom, or call or email us today to discuss your individual natural stone requirements!

Carrara Marble in Australian Architecture

carrara marble

Here at Euro Marble, we think its fair to say that marble can make any room in your home or business feel luxurious, elegant and sophisticated. Architects and interior designers love using marble in their projects as it adds a sprinkle of magic on the end result. While there are many different types of marble to choose from, the right grade of this natural stone depends on individual preference and taste along with considering the functional aspect of using different kinds of marble in certain areas.

As marble is a natural stone which is rich in calcium, it will continue to change as time passes contributing to the beauty and character of the stone and interior which surrounds it.

If you have further decided that you want a white marble for your project, one fantastic option is Carrara marble, which is often used in stunning residential and commercial projects throughout Australia. Below is more information about Carrara marble and some of the best uses for it to make your project just perfect:

What is Carrara Marble?

Carrara Marble is quarried in the Alpi Apuane mountain range in Carrara, Italy, right between Genoa and Florence. Carrara marble is a white marble with a clean, bright look accentuated by grey veining. The defining features of Carrara marble are thin, light and feathery veining against a white or light grey background instead of the dark, sharp and bold veining found in other types of marble and natural stone (see for black natural stone products).

Best uses for Carrara Marble in Your Project

As marble in general is one of the softer, more porous stones in the natural stone family, it can etch or stain if not properly sealed and maintained. At Euro Marble, many of our clients use it for diverse purposes inside the home or business, including kitchen benchtops and backsplashes, the surrounds of fireplaces, shower walls, vanity areas in bathrooms or as stunning floor tiles. It is popular in high-end hotels especially in bathrooms, where a stunning Carrara marble bathtub can ooze luxury and elegance.

Carrara Marble at Parliament House

Carrara marble is so highly-regarded that it was used in one of the most prominent areas of one of Australia’s finest architectural structures, our very own Parliament House in Canberra. Carrara marble is used to clad the front façade walls of the Great Verandah, the public face of Parliament House. The Great Verandah is often used as backdrop for ceremonies held on the forecourt, with the Carrara marble façade on display.

Here at Euro Marble, we are industry-leaders in Australia in marble, granite and other types of natural stone. Whether you’re an architect, interior designer, high-end builder or an end-user please drop into our Sydney showroom or call or email us today to discuss which natural stone is right for your individual project!