Marble and Its Surface Types
Marble is a luxurious-looking finishing material and a structurally-functional worktop option in many types and surface finishes. Marble also comes with technical aspects designers and homeowners can choose from when deciding what is best for their needs and requirements.
The most common types of marble finishing material are polished and honed surfaces. Polished marble is self-explanatory by its name. On the other hand, the query about honed marble has grown more popular over time. This particular marble finishing option is sought after by different firms, shops, and design firms. Hence, it may be practical to know and get oriented with the specifics of honed marble and its corresponding characteristics.
The Honed Marble Look
Mainly, honed marble has a finish that combines a polished surface and an unpolished surface. Typically, the surface of honed marble is not as shiny or smooth and tends to be plain compared to the polished marble that is usually available in the market. Moreover, this marble finish has a matte look but is not necessarily overly roughed.
Upon looking at the surface, it does not create refraction or reflection as it has a very low sheen. Visually, honed marble creates a different kind of decorative experience for the eyes and unique integration of surface elements.
Honed Marble Characteristics
Aside from its appearance, a honed marble slab is specifically more porous than polished marble. It has contrasting performance and attributes as a worktop such as a counter slab or countertop.
Honed marble is more resistant to scratches because of its non-glossy texture. Being different from polished marble, this marble type is porous. Seemingly, it absorbs more moisture stains and is prone to discoloration. There are sharp and rough areas on its surface that can catch particles that remain in the area for some period. The rough areas can also retain odor and smell because of bacteria absorption. The areas of honed marble are rough to the touch and are completely plain to look at.
As A Performing Functional Material
Because it is not reflective, the natural prints and patterns of honed marble are not clearly visible when it is applied on a plane. The positive aspect of marble is it does not get slippery when it is wet. In choosing to use honed marble on any of your designs, this material is perfect for non-cooking work areas such as worktables, center tables, tables in foyers, interior wall cladding, accent walls, and patio slabs.
Since it is easier for liquids and moisture to penetrate into this material, it is only practical and best to use as a decorative finishing than for areas that are used frequently and vigorously. Avoid using honed marble slabs and countertops that are exposed to water or rain exposures. Honed marble surfaces can be exposed to direct sunlight or a humid atmosphere. Since this material comes from natural stone, it can withstand typical temperature conditions.
Caring for Honed Marble
Hone’s marble can be treated and protected from scratches, stains, and etches. Avoid spilling acids onto the stone. In cases of harmful chemical spills, they can be cleaned by blotting the spill away, don’t wipe. If damage occurs, just shoot us some photos and we can help decide what to do. If it’s not that serious then something like our Magic Renova Drill Kit should do the trick to get rid of the damage.
Treat honed marble by coating it with a premium penetrating sealer that is intended to protect its surface. Apply penetrating sealer to maintain a fortified polishing of the surface, but it will retain its unpolished state and design. Sealing honed marble regularly protects its surface from bacteria and odor build-up. If you have a darker stone and want that “wet look” then try our color enhancing sealer.
As A Decorative Material
Honed marble can also be used for backsplashes in showcase kitchens and showcase pantry countertops. There are various designs and cuts of honed marble available in the market. Make sure to use it properly as a surface and in areas that will not need replacement in the future.
Honed marble has excellent lighting effects because of its diffusing properties. With its semi-rough texture, it absorbs light and creates a unique refracting outcome that can beautifully affect the visual aspects of an area.