Marble Benchtops from SNB Stone

SNB STONE...The Growing Kitchen Trend...'Marble Benchtops'

More and more Interior Designers, Architects and luxury home owners are incorporating marble into high end kitchens. In our Sydney warehouse, Marble for kitchen use is currently out selling other stones...

FACTS ABOUT MARBLE KITCHENS

Can Marble be used on a kitchen counter?
Yes, marble is a terrific option. It is recommended in a honed (matte) surface finish and sealed with Dry-Treat Meta Creme™ or Dry-Treat Stain Proof™. This is because Marble, Limestone and Travertine contain calcium carbonate which, when it comes into contact with acids can cause a faint dull spot to appear. This is called etching which is less evident on a honed surface than on a polished surface, due to less reflection. Whilst marble can be scratched, most people find that a commonsense approach and the use of chopping boards is a small price to pay for the beauty of marble.

Do I require to keep sealing Marble over time?
No. Use Dry-Treat Meta Créme™ or Stain Proof™ and unlike other sealers, re-sealing is not required. You do not require the use of specific products to maintain these sealers and there is no known product that is used in a kitchen that will ever remove the sealer from the stone. Dry-Treat also backs its protection performance by giving a 15 year written warranty if applied by an accredited applicator.

Does Marble resist heat and stains that typically occur in kitchens?
As mentioned above, etching is a chemical reaction that is caused by acid coming into contact with stones that contain calcium carbonate. On a honed surface, this etching can almost be completely removed by very lightly rubbing 0000 steelwool (found in your local hardware store) on the surface affected by the acid. Staining is different from etching and stains can be more readily removed if the surface has been sealed with Dry Treat Stain Proof™ or Meta Créme™. Marble is heat resistant, as during its formation it was subjected to extreme pressure and heat, however, we recommend the use of heat pads or chopping boards to avoid any possible discolouration.

Does Marble chip very easily?
No. It is a strong stone and will give you a lifetime of enjoyment. SNB Stone recommends the use of solid edge profiles in either 20mm or 30mm thickness. As can be seen in the above photo, mitred edges are visually stunning. However, as they are created using narrow, tapered edges they are more susceptible to chipping.

The Stonemason says not to use Marble?
If your heart is set on using marble for the kitchen of your dreams, only use a skilled, experienced stonemason who is comfortable with processing and handling marble and only uses a high quality sealer that does not need to be continually re-applied.

Is Marble very expensive?
No. Surprisingly, most marble slabs are in the range of $180-$300m2. Of course there are exceptions; one example is the popular Calacatta Oro Extra. In most cases, to manufacture and install marble is more expensive than synthetic products which are made of quartz mixed in resin.

What ongoing maintenance is required for Dry-Treat sealed Marble?
None. If sealed with Dry-Treat Meta Créme™ or Stain Proof™, re-sealing is not required. The use of specialised after-care products is not required.

How do you clean spills on Dry-Treat sealed Marble?
Wipe up spills immediately. Use pH neutral cleaners or a mild bleach solution if necessary.

How does Marble look in kitchens?
Architecturally, marble is considered the most beautiful stone in the world. New marbles are being located every day, each one with a unique colour and variation. SNB Stone has an extensive range of marble to from which to choose, satisfying the most creative minds. Skilled designers are finding that by using marble they can achieve unique professional masterpieces.

Is Marble suitable for everyone?
No, it is only for those people who appreciate the beauty whilst understanding the limitations of this unique, natural product. Those coming from cultures with a history of using marble in their homes and commercial applications have this understanding. In the past in Australia, advertising has told us that unless something is perfect, it is inferior. We certainly don't believe this and like to compare the inevitable marks on marble from a lifetime of family use with timber floorboards. Whilst floorboards are beautiful and pristine when first laid, they age gracefully and it is only over time that they take on the character, unique quality and yes, marks, that come from being part of a home.

DRY-TREAT Meta Créme™ BENEFITS

• Next generation technology = the ultimate penetration and lifespan
• Retains natural colour and finish of the surface
• Super oil and water repellency for superior stain protection
• Super penetration creates large water and oil-repelling barrier which provides protection against many serious problems other than stains, including efflorescence, picture framing, spalling and freeze-thaw damage.
• Low odour, non-drip cream. Ultra low VOC, fulfills strictest LEEDS requirements.
• Easy, one coat application.
• Makes cleaning easier and keeps surface looking new for longer; controls moss and mildew growth
• Breathable - water vapour escapes freely, helping to avoid harmful moisture buildup inside the treated material
• Use indoors or outdoors
• Treated areas are food contact safe
• Alkali resistant - won't break down in contact with cement based materials
• Can seal hairline cracks up to 0.3 mm (0.012 in.)
• 15 YEAR PERFORMANCE WARRANTY available when applied by a Dry-Treat Accredited Applicator

DRY-TREAT Stain Proof™ BENEFITS

• STAIN-PROOF Original™ is able to repel stains, graffiti and food products making cleaning easier
• Non film-forming, able to work without changing the appearance of the surface - keeps the original look
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Able to greatly reduce water uptake and minimise moss growth, freeze thaw spalling and efflorescence. an excellent chloride ion salt screen. Ideal for marine and pool areas.
• Highly water vapour permeableable. Able to breathe so there is no build-up of subsurface moisture, allowing it to dry out, deeply penetrating protecting against weathering and wearing.
• Very alkali resistant. Won't break down in contact with cement based materials
• Able to seal hairline cracks up to 0.3 mm (0.012 in.) and does not flake or peel.
• 15 YEAR PERFORMANCE WARRANTY available when applied by a Dry-Treat Accredited Applicator

DRY-TREAT sealers are available from our NSW and QLD branches