Etches are small marks or scratches on the surface of marble that can dull its appearance and make it look old and worn out. Many times etches are mistaken for “water rings” or “water marks”. In this blog post, we will explore the best ways to prevent etches from happening in the first place and how to treat them if they do occur.
Understanding Marble Etches
Before we dive into prevention and treatment methods, it’s important to understand what etches are and how they affect marble. Etches occur when an acidic substance comes into contact with the surface of the marble. This can be anything from lemon juice to cleaning products. When the acid reacts with the calcium carbonate in the marble, it eats away at the surface, leaving behind a dull mark or etch.
Etches are different from stains. While etches are caused by chemical reactions on the surface of the marble, stains are caused by substances penetrating the marble’s surface and leaving behind a mark. Understanding the difference between etches and stains is crucial when it comes to preventing and treating them.
Preventing Marble Etches
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your marble looking new. Here are some practical tips for preventing etches from happening:
- Choose the right cleaning products: Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaning products on your marble. Instead, opt for a mild, pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for marble surfaces. Try Easy Oxy or MB-5.
- Use coasters and placemats: Place coasters or placemats under drinks and food to avoid spills and stains on your marble surface.
- Wiping up spills immediately: If a spill does occur, be sure to wipe it up immediately. This will prevent the acid from having time to create extensive damage on the marble surface. You will still be left with an etch, but it will likely be minor and easy to fix.
- Avoid acidic substances: Be mindful of what substances come into contact with your marble surface. Avoid using or spilling acidic substances like lemon juice and vinegar on your marble. Even things like hand soap could cause damage.
Treating Marble Etches
If etches do occur, it’s important to treat them as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the marble surface. Here are some ways to treat etches:
- Identifying etches: Use lighting and angles to spot etches. Determine if they are surface etches by using your fingers to feel along the marble surface for any rough spots or marks. These are likely to be rough etches which will require a different method to fix. If you only have surface etching that you can’t feel, only see, then you can try our MB-11. (Only on light-colored stone. Contact us before purchasing.)
- Using MB-11: You can purchase MB-11 Touch Up Etch Remover from a local distributor or online. Follow the instructions provided to remove the etches from the surface of your marble.
- When to call us: If the etches are too deep or widespread, it may be time to call us to determine your best method of removing the etches. We do have other DIY options, but before purchasing please contact us for guidance. Sometimes calling a stone professional is best.
Conclusion
Marble is a beautiful natural stone that requires proper care and maintenance to keep it looking like new. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can prevent etches from forming on your marble surface and treat them if they do occur. Remember to choose the right cleaning products, use coasters and placemats, wipe up spills immediately, avoid acidic substances, and maintain your marble regularly. By doing so, you can ensure that your marble surface will remain a stunning and elegant feature of your home for years to come.