MARBLE CARE GUIDE.

If you have opted to treat your Marble bench-tops with MORE® AntiEtch® please disregard the information in this guide and follow the instructions designed for the MORE® AntiEtch® coating. For everyone else please follow the guides below.

Purchase MORE® AntiEtch®

• Regular Cleaning: We recommend to clean marble bench-tops daily with our favourite cleaner: GEAL CB90. Use a Microfibre Cloth to avoid scratching the surface. Buff the surface dry with a second Micro-fibre cloth to prevent water spots.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the sealant and dull the surface. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone such as GEAL CB90.

• Avoid Heavy Impact: Marble is a relatively soft stone so can be susceptible to cracks & chips under heavy impact. Be mindful of dropping heavy objects on the benchtop.
• Use Cutting Boards: Always use a cutting board when chopping or slicing to prevent scratches and preserve the sharpness of your knives.
• Avoid Sitting or Standing: Do not sit or stand on Marble bench-tops to avoid putting excessive weight on the surface, which can cause damage.

• Marble is composed mainly of calcium carbonate, making it highly susceptible to acid etching. Acid etching occurs when acidic substances come into contact with the marble surface, causing a chemical reaction that leaves dull spots or marks. Common acidic substances that can cause etching include:

  • Citrus juices (lemon, orange, etc.)
  • Vinegar
  • Wine
  • Coffee
  • Tomato-based products

   

• • Preventing Acid Etching

    MORE® AntiEtch®:

    • Consider using acid-etch resistant products, (we are MORE® AntiEtch® approved applicators) specifically designed for marble surfaces. This product can provide extra protection against acid damage.
    • If you would prefer not to use the anti etch product or you would like to wait then move on to the guides below.

    Immediate Cleanup:
    

    • Clean up acidic spills immediately. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot (not rub) the spill, preventing it from spreading and causing more damage.

    Use Coasters and Trays:

    • Place coasters under glasses and trays under bottles containing acidic substances to prevent direct contact with the marble surface.

    Avoid Direct Contact:

    • Use cutting boards or mats when preparing food with acidic ingredients to avoid direct contact with the marble benchtop.

    Regular Sealing:

    • Regularly sealing your marble benchtops can provide an additional layer of protection against acid etching. However, impregnating sealer does not make marble acid-proof, so preventive measures are still essential.

    Dealing with Acid Etching

    Light Etching:

    • For light etching, you can use a marble polishing powder. Apply the powder to the etched area, add a few drops of water to form a paste, and gently buff the surface with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry the area with a microfiber cloth.

    Deep Etching:

    • Deep etching may require professional restoration. Our expert technicians can assess the damage and use specialized techniques to restore the marble’s surface to its original shine and smoothness.

    Professional Assistance:

    • If you encounter significant acid etching or prefer professional handling, our experienced team is here to help. We offer comprehensive marble restoration services to address acid etching and other forms of damage. Contact us through the IWARRANTY platform to schedule a service appointment (as per our terms and conditions acid etching is not covered under any of our plans, however we are happy to provide a quote for this extra service.

    By understanding and preventing acid etching, you can maintain the pristine beauty of your marble benchtops and ensure they remain a stunning feature in your home for years to come.

   

• MORE® AntiEtch®. If you have opted for MORE® AntiEtch® you can ignore the below advice and follow the advice for caring for the anti-etch product.
• Importance of Sealing: Marble is porous and can absorb liquids, leading to stains. Sealing creates a protective barrier that prevents this.
• Frequency: Depending on the type of granite and usage, sealing should be done every 6-12 months. Test the seal by sprinkling water on the surface; if it absorbs, it’s time to reseal.
• How to Seal: Clean the surface thoroughly and apply a granite sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow it to sit for the recommended time and then buff the surface to a shine.
• Nu-Cover Seal: If you have opted for us to seal the surface it is recommended to continue with this service, this ensures uniformity in the sealing product and practices, we will also give your Granite a complete health check and recommend any repairs to you.

Chips in Marble bench-tops can occur due to a variety of reasons, often resulting from heavy impact or accidental drops. Common causes include:

• Heavy Objects: Dropping heavy pots, pans, or kitchen appliances onto the bench-top can cause chips to the leading edge.
• Sharp or Hard Items: Impact from sharp or hard objects, such as metal utensils or tools, can chip the surface.
• Edge Impact: The edges of granite benchtops are more susceptible to chipping from direct impact or pressure.

Professional repair is essential to ensure a seamless and durable fix. Our expert technicians use specialised tools and materials to restore the Marble to its original condition, matching the colour and pattern precisely.

Submit a Repair Request

If you notice a chip in your Marble bench-top, it is important to address it promptly to prevent further damage. We invite you to submit a repair request ticket via our IWARRANTY platform. Our team will assess the damage and schedule a convenient time for a professional repair.

• Marble is a soft stone, as such, it can be scratched easily. Instances such as dragging unglazed pots, pans, vases and cutting on the surface can scratch the Marble bench-top. Scratches in Marble bench-tops are common and are considered part of the natural weathering of the surface as such scratch removal is not covered under the Nu-Cover warranty, but can be quoted on independently of the plan, please contact our office for a quote.
• On certain occasions soft metals can mark the bench-top and present as a scratch, these marks have not damaged the Granite, they are just sitting on the surface and can be removed by using fine (000) Steel wool and a little water, rub lightly and check every few seconds to see if the mark has disappeared, once you are happy, dry the area thoroughly.

  Submit a Repair Request

  If you notice scratches in your Marble bench-top, it is recommended to use a Nu-Cover technician for repair. We invite you to submit a repair request ticket via our IWARRANTY platform. Our team will assess the damage, provide a quote and schedule a convenient time for a professional repair.

• Marble is a porous natural stone, meaning it can absorb liquids and become stained if not properly maintained. Stains on Marble bench-tops can occur from various substances, including:

  Oil-Based Stains: Cooking oils, grease, and cosmetics can seep into the pores of Marble, leaving dark spots.

  Organic Stains: Food items such as coffee, wine, fruit juices, and certain vegetables can cause discolouration if not cleaned up promptly.

  Rust Stains: Metal objects left on the marble surface can rust and leave stains.

  Water Stains: Hard water can leave mineral deposits that appear as cloudy spots on the marble.

  Preventing Stains

  Seal Your Marble:

  Regularly seal your marble benchtops to create a protective barrier that prevents liquids from penetrating the surface. Depending on the type of marble and usage, sealing should be done every 6-12 months.

  To test if your benchtop needs resealing, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If the water is absorbed and darkens the marble, it’s time to reseal.

  Clean Spills Immediately:

  Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent them from seeping into the stone. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot (not rub) the spill, as rubbing can spread the liquid and potentially cause more staining.

  Use Protective Measures:

  • Place coasters under glasses, especially those containing acidic or alcoholic beverages.
  • Use trays or mats under bottles of oil, sauces, and other potentially staining substances.
  • Employ cutting boards when preparing food to avoid direct contact between the marble and staining agents.

  Regular Cleaning:

  • Clean your marble benchtops daily with a pH-neutral, marble-safe cleaner. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the sealant and the stone itself.
  • Dry the surface with a microfiber cloth after cleaning to prevent water spots and streaks.

• • Oil-Based Stains: Use a poultice made of talc and water or a commercial degreaser designed for natural stone. Apply the poultice to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit for 24-48 hours. Remove the poultice and rinse the area with water.

    Organic Stains: Mix hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water. Be cautious with ammonia, as marble is sensitive to acids and some chemicals.

    Rust Stains: Use a commercial rust remover specifically designed for natural stone. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging the marble. Avoid acidic rust removers, as they can etch the marble surface.

    Water Stains: Remove mineral deposits with a mixture of equal parts water and a few drops of a pH-neutral cleaner designed for marble. Avoid using vinegar, as its acidity can damage the marble. Apply the solution to the stained area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Dry the area with a microfiber cloth.

    Professional Assistance: If a stain persists despite your best efforts, it’s time to call in the professionals. Our expert technicians can assess the stain and apply advanced techniques to remove it without damaging your marble benchtop. Contact us through the IWARRANTY platform to schedule a service appointment.

• Professional repair is essential to ensure a seamless and durable fix. Our expert technicians use specialised tools and materials to restore the Marble to its original condition, matching the colour and pattern precisely.

  Submit a Repair Request

  If you have a broken or dropped joint in your Marble bench-top, it is important to address it promptly to prevent further damage. We invite you to submit a repair request ticket via our IWARRANTY platform. Our team will assess the damage and schedule a convenient time for a professional repair.

• Professional repair is essential to ensure a durable fix. Our expert technicians will repair the dropped sink with the correct adhesives and brackets to prevent further issues.

  Submit a Repair Request

  If you have a dropped under-mount sink in your Marble bench-top, it is important to address it promptly to prevent further damage. We invite you to submit a repair request ticket via our IWARRANTY platform. Our team will assess the damage and schedule a convenient time for a professional repair.

• Preventing Silicone Issues

  1. Regular Cleaning:

     • Clean the silicone regularly with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner to prevent the buildup of dirt, grease, and other contaminants.
     • Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that can damage the silicone surface.

  2. Dry Surfaces:

     • Keep the areas around the silicone dry. After cleaning or cooking, wipe down the edges of the benchtop to remove excess moisture.
     • Ensure proper ventilation in the kitchen to reduce humidity levels and prevent mold growth.

  3. Inspect and Maintain:

     • Regularly inspect the silicone for signs of wear, discoloration, or mold. Early detection can prevent more significant issues.
     • If you notice any problems, address them promptly by cleaning the affected area or replacing the silicone.

  4. Use Quality Silicone:

     • Use high-quality, mold-resistant silicone sealants when installing or replacing silicone. These products provide better adhesion and durability, reducing the likelihood of issues over time.

  Addressing Silicone Issues

  • Cleaning Discoloured Silicone:
    • Use a mild bleach solution or a commercial mold remover to clean discolored silicone. Apply the solution, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.
  • Replacing Damaged Silicone:
    • If the silicone is peeling, cracking, or beyond cleaning, it needs to be replaced. Carefully remove the old silicone with a utility knife or scraper, clean the area, and apply new silicone sealant. Ensure the area is dry and free from debris before application.

  Submit a Repair Request

  If you have worn and blown silicone on your Marble bench-top, it is important to address it promptly to prevent further damage and prevent water seeping under the stone. We invite you to submit a repair request ticket via our IWARRANTY platform. Our team will assess the damage and schedule a convenient time for a professional repair.

• Polishing: Use a Marble polish to maintain the shine and lustre of your Marble. Apply the polish according to the manufacturer’s instructions and buff to a high gloss.
• Avoid Wax: Do not use wax or polish designed for other surfaces, as they can leave a residue and dull the finish over time.

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your Marble bench-tops for any signs of wear, damage, or dullness. Address issues promptly to maintain their beauty and functionality.
• Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling a Nu-Cover technician annually (a fee maybe charged), to keep your Marble bench-tops in optimal condition.