The only exception is when necessary for stain removal and repairs (see more below). Avoid over-exposure to direct sunlight as this may harm the finish. . It can remove hard water deposits, but it may also damage the finish of cultured marble, real marble, and other surfaces. If your table is old, previously painted or varnished then clean thoroughly with sugar soap, then lightly sand it to give the table a key. Spray some of the cleaner onto the counter and allow it to set for a few seconds and then wipe off with a lint-free cloth. WARNING: Bleach or products containing bleach should never be used as a regular cultured marble cleaner. Mineral deposits in the water create crusty white or yellowish deposits around the drain in the shower base or on shelves and seats in the shower. If you are 18 years or order and a permanent resident of Australia all you'll need is a. Quite a project! If you choose white marble, do not use wax. Also, the testing done by product testing labs ensures that the product has maximum resistance to crazing. and by future generations. Wipe clean regularly with a clean, damp cloth. To remove fine scratches, scuff marks or light stains from your matte finish product use a (very fine) scotch pad. Vanity tops can be installed by the homeowner. If you have a marble dining table, you will likely want to invest in trivets and/or a table pad to protect the surface when serving meals. As noted above, many cultured marble manufacturers state to avoid acidic cleaners and other strong chemicals. If you do not wish to accept cookies from this website, you can choose to not allow cookies from this website by updating your browser preferences. Attach a wool buffing pad to a variable speed drill and buff the surface of the product until all scratches have been removed. If the above procedure doesn't work, then you may have to sand down and refinish the cultured marble surface. No Catches. Most rust or mineral deposits can be removed with off-the-shelf cleaners from your local hardware store. You may read that certain products or cleaners are safe to use, but in fact, its a gamble. Follow all guidelines presented here for cultured marble bathrooms. But Gel-Gloss is used as part of this polishing and refinishing process as well. Also, building structures will shift with the change of temperatures, this may cause grout lines to crack and crumble. Gloss and Suede Finish, The beauty of cultured marble/granite is the ease of cleaning and maintaining the new shiny look. Follow with a coat of gel gloss to restore its shine. Use 100% silicone when installing pop up assembly. Generally, you just have to be careful! Other times the chip must be filled with the same material it was originally made with. So be careful what cleaning product you use. Some of these cleaners are effective when making a repair or removing a stain but may scratch or dull the resin coating in the process. Crazing is tiny hairline cracks around the drain that become progressively worse over time. Not all marbles need sealing. Cleaning requirements are basically the same, with a couple of nuances between the two types. Buff out light scratches from the faux marble by rubbing car polishing compound into the surface by hand. Remove hairspray buildup and other sticky films on the product by rubbing denatured alcohol onto the surface. She has written numerous articles on art, interior design and home improvements, specializing in kitchen and bathroom design. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'countertopspecialty_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_4',613,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-countertopspecialty_com-medrectangle-3-0')}; Follow the recommendations provided in this detailed guide, and youll know how to clean cultured marble like a pro. Many sites suggest using diluted vinegar (acidic) and a cloth to remove hard water stains or even covering the area with a cloth or paper towels soaked in vinegar, but it's a big risk. Dyes tend to stain. You may read recommendations to use white vinegar, ammonia, or bleach to clean cultured marble showers or remove hard water stains. Apply the cleaning product with a non-abrasive pad, soft sponge, or a microfiber cloth. Both of these procedures require a person with the knowledge and tools needed. Start with a 4 to 1 ratio of water to vinegar and increase the amount of vinegar slowly until it removes the deposits without harming the top. No lengthy application. The finish of my dinning table Sponging: Accomplishing a Faux Marble Finish, How to Remove Hard Water Stains from Dishes. But see the specific section below on cleaning a cultured marble shower. Matte & Suede Finish, These textures will not show minor scratches. But a matte finish is also available now to suit different tastes in design. Wipe up all spills immediately. Important Tip: Some cultured marble care guidelines you read online are contradictory, even from a few cultured marble manufacturers. Another kind of faux marble finish is found on a product called cultured marble. Lack of natural light or fresh air in the bathroom can cause the surface to yellow after many years. If stain is still visible apply an abrasive cleaner (Ajax or Soft Scrub) and rub out or use a Scotch Pad with a light rubbing motion until the stain is removed. What is a bit ironic and comical is that some sites will recommend both using vinegar (which is acidic) in one sentence while also stating to avoid anything acidicsame contradiction with acetone. So in many cases, this is the only way to get out stubborn stains. To maintain your marble/granite luster, periodically apply a protective coat of wax. How much effort is required to properly care for a marble table top? After my success with marbling on the Marble Trinket Dishes, I wanted to try a different technique and create a marble table top. To avoid unsightly water spots from forming you should squeegee the water off of the faux marble finish. I am getting ready to paint the kitchen and a few other roo Hi guys, I hope to get some advice on this. You may freely link Do not let the bleach solution sit on the surface for too long. Over tightening will result in damage to the product. You also should not use an abrasive scrub brush. Its the protective outer layer of clear coating that creates this shiny surface. The Central Marble Products showroom is open 8 am to 4 pm Monday Friday. Actually, this is true for showers made with natural marble, natural To remove cultured marble stains from ink, nail polish, dyes, or anything stuck on the surface, try isopropyl alcohol on a cotton ball and gently rub. However, the product can be restored once it is damaged, ensuring that it can sustain years of use. Repeated exposure to extremely hot water can cause cracks. Cleaning and maintenance requirements, repair options, and types of products used are different from regular marble and other materials. Cultured marble/granite is very rugged with a hard waterproof, stain proof surface. To remove stains in cultured marble, you may have to use products that you should not use for regular cleaning, as noted above. If you follow the guidelines, procedures, and recommendations in this article, you wont have any problems cleaning your cultured marble. This can include hard water stains, coffee, milk or food dribbles. Additional information about Cultured Marble: CountertopSpecialty.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. You can then use the same brush to spread it out even further. The material is sensitive to heat, cold, and sticky substances. This is especially true for surfaces with a minimal pattern or a solid color. home improvement and repair website. Luckily, it will last forever, so you won't have to replace it! You risk scratching or discoloring the finish. Showers and tubs have some special needs. Using a cloth towel or paper towel will not be sufficient enough as they usually leave water and moisture behind on the counter top. If you click the "Accept All Cookies" button or continue navigating the website, you agree to having those first and third-party cookies set on your device. There were quite a few steps involved but it wasnt too difficult, its about building up the layers to give a true marble effect. Rinse well, apply car polishing paste and buff well. A list of the pros and cons of marble table tops and counters. Available for orders between $0.04-$2,000.00, Minimum order of $1.00 required for Openpay, Order cannot exceed $3,500.00 for Openpay, Nova Dining Table Faux Marble White - 1300, In Stock - Despatch From 4-7 Business Days. Put the ammonia into the spray bottle and apply a very small amount to the area. Failure to do so may cause staining. For more information on how we use Cookies, please read our privacy policy. With the technology changes and product testing, crazing should not be a problem for tens of years. Avoid contact with strong, caustic, acidic cleaners, citrus cleaners, harsh chemicals like bleach, paint removers, drain cleaners, oven cleaners, and acetone (including fingernail polish remover), ammonia, and vinegar. However, refinishing the protective gel-coat is possible. Cultured marble is a stone that has the same characteristics as marble without the cost or intensive maintenance. CALL TODAY! Therefore, over time they do not have a tendency to crack or leak as an acrylic insert does. Try not to cross over the lines, natural marble veins run off each other but not through each other. Its non-toxic, biodegradable, super-effective, and dries streak-free. We welcome your comments and Cultured marble is durable, but quality does vary, and often it can be damaged by many common and brand-name household cleaners. It is a fact that sometime the counter is going to get wet. This website uses cookies and other tracking technologies (also known as pixels or beacons) to aid your experience (such as viewing videos), as well as performance cookies to analyze your use of this website and to assist with marketing efforts. Christmas can be filled with clichs if youre not careful. Soap film buildup and hard water stains are the biggest cleaning problems for cultured marble bathrooms, tubs, and showers. Finish with a coat of gel gloss. The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Related Content on How To Clean Cultured Marble: To keep your cultured marble in top condition, you must use the proper cleaners, avoid damaging products, and develop good maintenance habits. Use the same Hard Water & Soap Film cleaner for regular cleaning to eliminate problems with soap film buildup, water spots, hard water stains, and mold. Requires careful cleaning and maintenance. All rights reserved. DoItYourself.com, founded in 1995, is the leading independent Certain foods can leave behind an oily residue which can break down the faux marble finish. Cultured marble/granite is thoroughly tested to resist stains from ink, hair dye, shoe polish, iodine, crayons, bleach, drain cleaners, ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, and many other products commonly found in bathrooms. CENTRAL MARBLE PRODUCTS, INC. warrants this product to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of manufacture. Remember to seal marble as recommended. The perfect surface for rolling out pastry. However, cultured marble showers don't usually have grout lines like real marble. Is the beauty of owning a marble table worth the effort of maintaining it? Minor imperfections, warpage, and variations in shade or veining between sample and finished product. Once dry, use a bigger paint brush to lightly dab over the lines with the Winter Grey. Over time cultured marble can yellow for a couple of reasons. This product makes it easy to maintain squeaky clean shower walls and floor. However, you need to learn how to clean cultured marble correctly, including the use of proper cleaning and polishing products. We have partnered with Afterpay to bring you simple, interest-free payment plans. It wont harm the cultured marble directly, but a dull film can build up on the surface when used regularly. problems contact webmaster@doityourself.com. Buy what you want today, pay when it suits you best. Hold the brush lightly, twisting it as you go to give a slightly different effect. Again, avoid using soap as a cleaner. A company technician should take care of deeper scratches. Natural marble lines run through the whole piece so make sure your lines flow onto the edges too for a more realistic marble slab look. Avoid placing sharp abrasive objects on the surface; they will scratch. Do not over tighten drain fitting. Dos & Donts for Cleaning Cultured Marble, Cleaning Cultured Marble: High Gloss vs. Matte Finish, How To Clean Cultured Marble That Has Yellowed, Repairing Cultured Marble: Scratches, Cracks, Polishing, and Refinishing. The seams are sealed with a mildew resistant 100% silicone caulk that requires little in the way of maintenance. If desired, you may use a very mild abrasive cleaner for this type of finish. Be sure to ask if it needs to be sealed before you buy a specific piece of marble furniture. For general stain removal, gently scrub using an extremely fine grade Scotch Pad, an abrasive sponge, or Soft Scrub. To clean your high gloss finish product: Wipe with a soft cloth or sponge using a mild soap and water or use a non-abrasive foam cleaner. Faux marble, or cultured marble, is a cast polymer product made of a mixture of plastic resins and crushed, powdered marble dust. While faux marble is not porous the way natural marble is, it can stain and scratch if proper maintenance is not followed. Abrasive and harsh cleaners rough up the gel-coat, which then accumulates dirt and oils, making it harder to clean. This film looks dull and dingy and makes the surface even harder to clean over time. Tip 1. Its not the same as a marble countertop. They are heavy and usually require two people. The gel gloss will clean the top as it restores its shine. This commonly happens around the sink drain. Stick with a quality pH neutral cleanerand soft cloth or sponge. Allow the cleaner to soak into the material. Beauty is definitely a major advantage of marble. And both types of films can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. You will likely find that it is your favorite piece of furniture in your home. Cultured Marble vs. Corian, Quartz, and Granite, removing curling iron burns from cultured marble, non-acidic Soap Film & Hard Water Remover, Cultured Marble Buyer's Guide: Vanity Tops, Tubs, and Showers, Use a pH neutral hard surface cleaner like. Or just replace the countertop or shower. Generally, you see yellowed cultured marble when removing an old faucet. Website operating To clean up a tough stain or caked on food matter you will first spray the all-purpose on the stain. Use only when attempting to remove yellowing.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'countertopspecialty_com-leader-4','ezslot_18',629,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-countertopspecialty_com-leader-4-0')}; Yes. Using the fine brush, paint on the fine details with Graphite as in Step 4, using your first coat of marble lines as a guide. Also, it is hard to remove without potentially damaging the finish. Gel-Gloss will buff out light surface scratches and make regular cleaning a snap. Repeat this step to give a thicker coat of the Winter Grey but still allowing the Graphiteto show through slightly. (320) 393-2085 or (800) 422-0356 Are you considering purchasing marble dining tables, kitchen counters, or a marble table for its classic beauty and timeless elegance? Apply a fresh coat of gel gloss with a soft cloth whenever the surface of the cultured marble appears dull. Box 357, Rice Minnesota 56367. / quart spray bottle full of water). We have instructions available on how to do it. Accept All Cookies. I used a fine artists brush for the marble veins but you can also use a feather if you have one. Remove buildup of minerals from hard water on the product by rubbing a mixture of white vinegar diluted in water. A member in good standing with the National Kitchen and Bath Association, Asaff has working knowledge of all areas of home design. Yes! Use cleaners that are recommended for marble only. Never use an abrasive cleaner or pad for regular cleaning. Chips or cracks in product surface, unless caused by defects in materials or workmanship. But many cultured marble manufacturers specifically state not to use acids like vinegar and other strong cleaners like chlorine bleach as these can damage the gel coating. The marble/granite is tested for stain resistance, scratch resistance, impact strength, and susceptibility to hot and cold water. Do not use hair dyes or any similar dyes around cultured marble. Hot objects will scorch, burn, or even melt the surface. To clean, just wipe with a soft cloth or sponge using a mild soap and water or a non-abrasive foam cleaner. Sealing is relatively easy to do as long as you use a top-quality sealer. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the stain in a clockwise or counterclockwise movement. It is durable, resistant to most types of damage, reasonably low-maintenance, and easy-to-clean. It will protect the top layer gel coat and maintain the luster of the high-gloss finish. and again, lightly dab off any excess paint with scrunched up kitchen roll. Remove the cultured marble stain but risk other damage to the gel coat. The longer you wait gives the water more time to dry and leave water spots behind so clean it quickly. For example, a marble coffee table would work great in a formal living room where it would serve primarily as a showpiece rather than as a coloring table for children or a spot to rest your laptop. This could cause it to warp from the heat. 1266 105th St., NW P.O. Leave this to dry fully, it will take a little while to dry with the extra water on the surface. Soap or a mild detergent is commonly recommended but is counterproductive (see why below). This leads to a vicious cycle. Often less expensive as quartz or granite. First, cultured marble/granite showers are constructed solid and strong with very little give and flexibility. Always test on a small hidden area first. If there is a spill, especially if it's something acidic, wipe it up immediately. DO NOT install your top if you find defects in the top. stone, acrylic, fiberglass, etc. It is similar to Corian countertops. suggestions. Underneath will be yellow. Or use a non-acetone fingernail polish remover (note that most fingernail polish removers contain acetone). This product is specific for polishing cultured marble. . The Soap Film & Hard Water Cleaneris specially-formulated for safe and effective cleaning for showers and tubs. Use a soft cloth to polish the product and remove everyday debris. The edges of the spill will dry before the inside because the edges are characteristically thinner. Using the wrong types of cleaners can quickly ruin the finish or protective gel-coat. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Cultured marble/granite panels and shower pans are solid pieces with no grout lines to clean or keep sealed. Durable if it is carefully and consistently cared for. Attach a wool buffing pad to a variable speed drill and buff the surface of the product until all scratches have been removed. Allow the dilute bleach solution to dwell on the surface for 5 minutes. We will be happy to answer your questions, offer ideas and assist with product selection. We recommend GelGloss. Do not use any harsh or abrasive cleaners or scrubbers. Striking a balance between tradition and modernity, our Nova Range melds the rustic sensibility of coastal and country design with a more industrial aesthetic. Gloss Finish, Yes. This IKEA table was one of the first pieces I painted, I think I was having a Rennie Mackintosh moment with the blue squares! A faux marble finish will give you the same look and appeal of real marble with the weight or the cost. Repeated use of abrasives or harsh cleaners is another reason. Faux marble is found most frequently in bathrooms and showers. Marble is a soft stone, so although it is very dense, it is also rather vulnerable to staining and scratching. So its a judgment call. As an Amazon Associate we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through links on our site. Use the same non-abrasive cleaning products recommended above for general cleaning. There are a few things you need to take into consideration before making that big purchase. Today, with the advancement of technologies in equipment and raw materials, crazing has virtually been eliminated. If it should scratch or chip, repairs can be made by a company technician. Tip 2. Having been in my loft for the last 12 years since moving house, I thought it was time for a revamp. So use with caution and only when really needed as part of a repair or stain-removal process.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'countertopspecialty_com-banner-1','ezslot_13',617,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-countertopspecialty_com-banner-1-0')}; If you choose to try these harsh chemicals, then test the cleaner first on a small hidden area to ensure it will not damage. If your cultured marble vanity, shower, or tub is really dull, damaged, or yellowed, then you will need to repair or refinish it first. Whirlpool tubs are tested further for proper drainage and hair entrapment. This warranty is void when the product is damaged in transit, or as the result of improper installation, careless usage, or hot water temperature in excess of 160 F. This warranty DOES NOT apply to the following: This warranty extends only to replacement cost of this product. While its still wet, lightly dab it off with either scrunched up kitchen roll or a natural sponge to give a dappled effect. Let the product sit and soak for 5-10 minutes. Or to avoid acetone, but then also say to use acetone to remove nail polish, ink, or other gunk stuck to the surface. Long story inv Greetings All: Its precisely the same problem as seen in showers. The furniture paint can be used straight onto most surfaces but I always recommend a light sand with fine sandpaper for everything I paint. But it can stain from hair dyes, ink, shoe polish, nail polish, some foods and drinks, colored waxes, and oils. Over time the faux marble finish can become scuffed up or stained and this article will show you how to properly clean the faux marble finish. But also if you keep a soap dish or any kind of decor item in the same place, it can yellow underneath. A label will be attached to the product showing the product meets or exceeds all specifications. These same problems can occur on a cultured marble bathtub or around sink faucets and drain as well. I was tempted to put more lines on but restrained myself and went for a less is more look.. to this site, and use it for non-commercial use subject to our terms of use. Its a bit of a catch-22. Not all cultured marble is exactly the same, so results may vary. Fine scratches can be removed with automotive paint buffing compound and a hand held polisher. You can then buff the stone with a soft cotton or micro-fiber cloth. Specific care is needed.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'countertopspecialty_com-box-3','ezslot_3',105,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-countertopspecialty_com-box-3-0')}; First, its vital to know that cultured marble is not real marble. It's important that you should never use an abrasive cleaner on a faux marble finish. Youre probably wondering if certain cleaners or your favorite product should be used to clean cultured marble. An elegant marble table can be the centerpiece of a room. Wipe the counter again with a moist paper towel to remove any residue from either the food stain or the cleaner. If the table is heavily varnished or has lots of knots in the wood then Id also recommend you use Zinsser B-I-N to stop any stains coming through the marble effect. Using a mild soap a few times a year is okay, but very warm water and a soft sponge will work just fine for daily cleanings. The vast majority of cultured marble materials come with a high-gloss finish. // Leaf Group, Southern Cultured Marble: Care and Maintenance for all Cultured Marble Products, This Old House; Restoring Cultured Marble; Kevin O'Connor, Variable speed drill with wool buffing pads. Sarabeth Asaff has worked in and has written about the home improvement industry since 1995. A faux marble finish is a much cheaper alternative to real marble. Soap scum leaves a dull, hazy film on the shower walls and floor. Faux marble, or cultured marble, is a cast polymer product made of a mixture of plastic resins and crushed, powdered marble dust. All showers have this problem. Installation is not covered by warranty. Paint the base of the table with 2-3 coats of Rust-Oleum Satin Finish Furniture Paintin Carbon, leaving each coat to dry fully in between. Avoid using soap as a general cleaner. It scratches and etches easily, even if you seal it. Here are a few things to think about before buying a marble table or countertop: It is important to consider how the table will be used in your home. Youll clean cultured marble sinks the same way as the countertop. Bold in profile and scale, the substantial frame of solid acacia timbers finished with a grey wash is complemented by a thick Faux Marble top. submitted to our "DoItYourself.com Community Forums". Is it a good idea to install marble in a place where it will be spilled on? When you buy real marble you will receive a very beautiful piece of stone that is heavy and expensive. To clean your matte finish product: Wipe with a soft cloth or sponge using a mild soap and water. Apply as stated on the label until buildup is removed. How do you make cultured marble shine again? Use a paper towel to first wipe up the initial spill. Then paint the base layer of the marble top in Rust-Oleum Chalky FinishFurniture Paint in Graphite. Cultured marble is a man-made solid-surface material made with marble dust and resins. This is what I have learned after owning, maintaining, and enjoying a marble table top for years. One of the most environmentally friendly materials. ATopical Marble Polishis also a good choice for regular maintenance and enhancing the shine. Inherent variations in the colour and shading of the marble, as well as the casting process, lend unique character to each table; no two will be identical. Rinse well, apply car polishing paste and buff well. Gloss and Suede Finish, Simply rinse the area with soap and water and wipe the clean. Wipe away the mess with a paper towel. (320) 393-2085 or (800) 422-0356. Once fully dry paint two coats of Rust-Oleum Furniture Lacquer to protect the surface. Apply Gel-Gloss Polish regularly to keep cultured marble shiny or restore the glossy shine. As noted above abrasives may damage the protective glossy gel-coat.