The answer to this question really comes down to personal preference and what you are looking for in terms of performance, aesthetics, and cost. Cultured marble is an engineered material made from composite of real marble, cement particles, and resins.
It is generally more affordable than real marble, with less variation in color which can also make it a more attractive option. The surface of cultured marble is nonporous, which makes it easier to clean and less susceptible to staining than real marble.
Due to its composite material, cultured marble may also be easier to install than real marble, which can be heavy and difficult to cut and shape. On the other hand, real marble has a unique, timeless look that many people prefer over the uniform pattern that often comes with cultured marble.
Real marble is also more durable and has the potential to increase the value of a home, whereas cultured marble is more prone to cracks and chips and is usually considered a permanent part of the home.
Ultimately, deciding between cultured marble and real marble is up to each individual to decide based on the desired performance, aesthetic, and cost.
What is a drawback of cultured marble?
One of the main drawbacks of cultured marble is that it is a porous material, which means that it can absorb stains and dirt more easily than other materials. This can make it difficult to keep it looking clean and well-maintained.
Furthermore, it is more prone to cracking, chipping, and scratching than other materials, such as quartz or granite. If a cultured marble surface is damaged, it can be difficult to repair. Additionally, cultured marble is a relatively expensive material, so it may not be a feasible choice for those on a budget.
How to tell the difference between cultured marble and real marble?
Cultured marble and real marble can look quite similar — however, there are a few key elements you can use to tell them apart.
For starters, real marble gives off a unique veined pattern that varies from slab to slab — which is completely natural. This lends a distinct sophistication and style to the material. On the other hand, cultured marble is manmade, which means it will have a more uniform appearance.
Even though it is designed to mimic the look of marble, it will never have the same random and unique veins.
Furthermore, real marble is much heavier and denser than cultured marble. Therefore, if there’s any doubt, you can always pick up a piece to test out the weight. Additionally, due to its unique porous structure, real marble is much colder to the touch than its artificial counterpart.
It’s also worth noting that real marble is much more valuable, long lasting and durable than cultured marble. Therefore, if price is a deciding factor, that’s another way to tell them apart.
Finally, it may help to bring in a professional who specializes in marble to help make the distinction between real marble and cultured marble. They will be able to provide you with an accurate and unbiased assessment of your material.
How long will cultured marble last?
Cultured marble is an incredibly strong and long-lasting material, and with proper care, it can last for decades. If it is properly sealed and maintained, cultured marble should last anywhere from 25 to 30 years before it needs to be replaced or re-sealed.
Additionally, due to its non-porous nature, cultured marble is less likely to be damaged from everyday use, like scuffs, scratches, and spills.
When cared for properly, cultured marble is one of the most durable materials available for bathroom and kitchen countertops, showers, and tub surrounds. It stands up to heat, pressure, and everyday wear-and-tear extremely well, and with proper cleaning and maintenance, its shine and gloss will last for many years.
To get the most life out of your cultured marble countertop, make sure to avoid abrasive cleaners, harsh chemical cleaners, and general neglect. Cleaning your cultured marble regularly with a mild detergent and warm water will help keep it looking like new.
Does white cultured marble turn yellow?
No, white cultured marble generally does not turn yellow. Cultured marble is a durable and relatively low-maintenance material that is typically comprised of a blend of marble dust, resin, and pigments.
This combination ensures the product retains its white color and resists yellowing over time. That being said, cultured marble is susceptible to changes due to extended exposure to strong ultraviolet rays, acids, and alkaline products.
Additionally, the white color of cultured marble can be altered by aggressive or heavy cleaning methods or chemical compounds. To ensure that your white cultured marble remains white, be mindful of what it’s exposed to.
Clean it gently with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water and store products that contain acids and alkaline properly.
Can I use Clorox wipes on cultured marble?
No, you should not use Clorox wipes on cultured marble. Cultured marble is a type of engineered stone composed of a blend of polyester resin, stones, and pigments. It is nonporous and highly durable, making it an ideal material for countertops and showers.
Since Clorox wipes contain harsh chemicals, they can damage and discolor the surface of the cultured marble. Additionally, many of the chemicals found in Clorox can remain on the surface of the cultured marble even after wiping, creating a potential health hazard.
To safely clean the surface of a cultured marble countertop or shower, you should use a low-alkaline soap and warm water. For stubborn stains and grease buildup, you can use a gentle yet effective cleaner specifically formulated for cultured marble.
Is cultured marble hard to maintain?
Overall, cultured marble is relatively easy to maintain compared to other materials. One of the main advantages of cultured marble is its durability. Because it’s made from a combination of natural marble dust and resin, cultured marble is able to withstand damage from water and other liquids without suffering permanent staining or other damage.
Cleaning cultured marble is very easy. A mild detergent solution or an all-purpose cleaner should work just fine. After cleaning, simply rinse the surface and make sure to dry it completely to prevent it from becoming spotted.
Depending on the environment, it may also be necessary to seal the surface every few years. If a sealant is required, make sure to use a sealant that is specifically made for use with cultured marble.
If there are scratches or discoloration on the surface, the best approach is to use a cleaner specifically formulated for cultured marble. If the damage is more extensive, there are kits available to repair damage to the marble and restore its original beauty.
All in all, caring for cultured marble is relatively easy and painless.
How do you keep cultured marble shiny?
Keeping cultured marble shiny is an easy process that should be done on a regular basis. The best way to keep cultured marble looking its best is to use a soft cloth to dust the surface of the marble regularly.
Also, occasional wiping with a damp cloth will help remove any residue that has built up as well. In addition, once or twice a year, use a marble cleaner and polish to give the cultured marble a deep and even shine.
To do this, apply the marble cleaner directly onto a soft, non-abrasive cloth and rub it into the marble using circular motions. After that, dampen the cloth and buff off any excess cleaner. Finally, apply a minimalist amount of polish, in a similar fashion as the cleaner, and buff one last time to get that beautiful shine.
Do you need to seal cultured marble?
In most cases, sealing cultured marble is not necessary for everyday use. Cultured marble is non-porous so it does not absorb water or other liquids which make it extremely stain-resistant and easy to keep clean.
However, if you are using the cultured marble in an environment where a large amount of staining agents may be present, such as a kitchen or bathroom, it would be a good idea to seal the cultured marble to ensure it stays looking great for years to come.
Sealing cultured marble will also make it easier to clean any spills as it will stop liquids from seeping into the materials and causing staining or discoloration.
What looks like marble but more durable?
Tile can often look like marble, but is typically more durable than marble. Tile has become increasingly popular in recent years as a result of its durability. Unlike marble, which is a softer stone, tile is composed of a harder material such as ceramic or porcelain.
While marble can easily chip, dent or scratch, tile is much more resistant to everyday wear and tear. In addition, tile can often be glazed, which helps to make it even more durable and gives it a glossy, water-resistant finish.
Another benefit of tile is that is more affordable than marble and comes in a wide array of colors and designs.
Can you clean cultured marble with Dawn dish soap?
Yes, you can clean cultured marble with Dawn dish soap. Dawn dish soap is a mild, yet effective detergent, which makes it perfect for cleaning cultured marble. To clean cultured marble, start by dampening a soft cloth with warm water and a few drops of Dawn.
Gently scrub the surface with the damp cloth, taking care to not scrub too hard and cause any damage. Once done, rinse the surface with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue. For tougher stains and discolorations, you may need to scrub a bit harder or even use a homemade cleaning solution made up of 3 tablespoons mild, non-abrasive dish soap, 2 cups warm water, and 1/2 cup of baking soda.
Apply the solution to the stained area and let sit for 1-2 minutes before scrubbing with a damp cloth. Finally, rinse with warm water to finish.
Is scrubbing bubbles safe to use on cultured marble?
Scrubbing Bubbles is a great choice for cleaning cultured marble. It is safe to use both inside and outside the bathroom and customers have been very pleased with the results. While other products may be able to clean and restore the marble’s original sheen, Scrubbing Bubbles seems to have the most benefits when used on cultured marble.
It is easy to use and won’t damage the marble’s finish or dull its shine. It is designed to remove bacteria, dirt, and stains. Also, it is PH balanced and won’t damage the marble’s color or texture. It is always strongly advised to take proper protective measures, such as wearing gloves and safety goggles, before using any cleaning product on cultured marble.
After using the product, be sure to rinse thoroughly using clean water and a soft cloth.