The Pros and Cons of Marble Countertops, Explained by a Design Professional

Marble countertops have long been admired, retaining a strong appeal. However, in recent times, alternative countertop materials have been gaining attention. Among the rising stars are granite and engineered quartz, which are now commonly seen in kitchens across the country.

If you're considering a kitchen remodel, are marble countertops still a viable choice? We consulted with an experienced interior designer to guide your decision. Here's an overview of the benefits and challenges of marble countertops.

Advantages of Marble Countertops

Adding marble countertops to your kitchen or bathroom offers numerous benefits. Interior designer Amy Sklar, who has used marble in her own home and helped clients select surfaces for their remodels, shares why she believes it's a great investment.

Increases Your Home's Market Value

Real stone countertops are highly desirable. Compared to other materials such as laminate or porcelain, marble significantly boosts your home's resale value. “It’s a prestigious material that can enhance your property’s worth. Though installation is costlier, it can prove to be a worthwhile investment,” explains Sklar. Additionally, marble countertops offer a classic aesthetic that remains stylish for years.

Ideal for Baking

Attention bakers! From a functional perspective, marble is a great surface for cooking and baking, as it naturally stays cool. “That’s why many traditional French bakeries have marble counters. It helps keep the butter in the dough chilled,” says Sklar.

Available in a Range of Colors and Finishes

A polished, bright white marble finish is breathtaking, but it's just one of many available options. You can select countertops in an array of colors like gray, green, brown, and taupe.

"Honed marble is buffed down to a matte finish, giving it a more natural texture," says Sklar. Though it's more prone to staining, it’s not as vulnerable to etching from acids. Ultimately, the finish you choose should align with your preferences and needs.

Exceptional Longevity

Marble can endure for up to a century. With proper care (such as regular sealing), it will last for as long as you reside in your home. Plus, given its timeless and sophisticated look, you’re unlikely to grow tired of it.

Opulent Aesthetic

A key reason why homeowners opt for marble countertops is their luxurious appearance. They bring sophistication and elegance to a space, with their signature veining standing out. White marble, in particular, is a favorite due to its distinctiveness—no other natural stone shares its brilliant white hue. And while marble is undeniably stylish, it also remains a timeless kitchen trend.

Drawbacks of Marble Countertops

Like any natural stone, marble comes with challenges that engineered materials may not have. Despite its many advantages, there are some notable downsides to selecting marble for your countertop.

Heavy and Difficult to Handle

Although marble is an excellent choice for countertops, it's one of the heavier stones available. It's best to have professionals handle the installation to avoid damage and ensure proper fitting. The weight of marble also means it requires a strong foundation, so when replacing it, make sure the cabinets can support its weight.

More Costly Than Other Stones

When homeowners consider a countertop remodel, quartz, granite, and marble often make the shortlist. While marble offers numerous benefits, it is the priciest of the three options in terms of price per square foot. Granite countertops average $75 per square foot, while marble typically starts at $100 per square foot and can climb as high as $200 per square foot. Before making a decision, it's essential to get a precise price estimate for marble.

Prone to Stains and Scratches

As a natural stone, marble is porous, meaning it can easily absorb spills, stains, and food pigments if left on the surface for too long. Additionally, it doesn't fare well under heat, so placing hot pots or pans directly on marble is not recommended. Over time, wear and tear can cause etching, which results in a dull, faded finish.

Unlike quartz or butcher block countertops, marble isn’t suitable for direct food prep like slicing vegetables due to its softness. It scratches more easily than granite, so using sturdy cutting boards is a must to prevent damage. For the same reason, avoid abrasive sponges or cleaning products like Soft Scrub that could scratch or damage the marble's surface.

Develops Character with Age

This can be seen as both a benefit and a drawback. There’s a reason vintage marble tables seem to have a story to tell—they've earned their character. "Marble is a living finish, so it evolves over time," explains Sklar. "The color darkens slightly, and any spills or etching start to blend in, looking more intentional and even. It gains personality. It's vibrant, organic, and loved; it develops a history that adds depth." However, if you prefer a surface that maintains a flawless look for years, you might want to consider a material like engineered quartz.

Requires Frequent Cleaning Care

As mentioned earlier, marble cleaning can be a bit challenging. Instead of using any random household cleaner, it’s important to verify that your product doesn’t contain substances that could damage the marble. "A general rule of thumb is that acid is the enemy, so bleach, lemon-based cleaners, and vinegar can all etch the marble," warns Sklar.

If you’re faced with a tough stain, consult your manufacturer to get their cleaning recommendations. There may be at-home solutions worth trying, but be sure to understand what you can't use before proceeding.