Marble Worktops 

Marble Kitchen Worktops

Elegant natural stone for homeowners who accept routine care and natural ageing.

Essential facts before choosing marble

Marble provides a strong visual impact but behaves as a softer and reactive stone. You should understand its care requirements before using it in a kitchen.

  • Etches from acidic ingredients including lemon, wine, vinegar and tomatoes.
  • Needs sealing around every 6–12 months. Busy kitchens may require 3–6 months.
  • Stains from oils and coffee when spills are not removed promptly.
  • Scratches more easily than granite or quartz.
  • Best for owners who accept patina and follow a simple cleaning routine.

Understanding marble

Marble is a metamorphic stone formed when limestone is subjected to heat and pressure. Its veining and colour variation give it a premium appearance that suits both classic and contemporary kitchens.


Because marble reacts with acids, etching is unavoidable in working kitchens. These marks are part of the stone’s character and do not clean off. If you want a surface that stays uniform, marble is unlikely to suit your needs.


Heat resistance is strong for normal cooking, although trivets prevent thermal stress around joints and adhesives.

Pros and limitations

Advantages

  • Distinctive natural veining that creates strong visual appeal.
  • Cool surface ideal for pastry preparation.
  • Good heat tolerance for day-to-day cooking.
  • Premium appearance suited to design-led kitchens.
  • Natural variation ensures no two slabs look identical.

Limitations

  • Etches quickly in active cooking zones.
  • Higher staining risk from oils, sauces and dark liquids.
  • Scratches more easily than harder stones.
  • Requires sealing and pH-neutral cleaning.
  • Professional polishing may be needed every few years if a consistent sheen is desired.

Common causes of etching and marks

These common kitchen items require quick cleaning to avoid surface change.

  • Citrus juices and sliced fruit.
  • Wine, vinegar and other acidic liquids.
  • Tomato-based sauces.
  • Coffee and tea left to dry on the surface.
  • Fizzy drinks containing carbonic acid.
  • Fruit juices and syrups.
  • Cooking oils that can darken stone if absorbed.
  • Any cleaner that is not pH-neutral.

Marble vs granite in UK homes

Granite is harder and less reactive, while marble offers a softer, more decorative effect. UK fabricators classify marble as a higher-maintenance choice rather than a direct granite replacement.

  • Granite sits around 6–7 on the Mohs hardness scale. Marble is closer to 3–4.
  • Granite handles acidic spills better.
  • Marble needs more frequent sealing.
  • Granite suits busy households with heavy daily cooking.
  • Marble suits design-led, lighter-use kitchens where patina is appreciated.

Maintenance routine

These steps help maintain stability and reduce long-term restoration costs.

  • Blot spills immediately to reduce etching and stains.
  • Use pH-neutral cleaners only.
  • Dry surfaces to avoid water rings and mineral marks.
  • Check sealing performance with a water-bead test every few months.
  • Seal every 6–12 months depending on usage.
  • Plan occasional polishing if you prefer a more uniform finish.

Typical UK cost guide

  • Carrara: around £200–£400 per m².
  • Calacatta: around £400–£700+ per m².
  • Templating and installation: around £200–£400 per m².
  • Routine care: annual cleaners and sealers plus optional polishing.

Who marble suits

  • You value natural character and soft ageing.
  • You are comfortable with simple but consistent care.
  • You want a strong design statement.

Who should consider alternatives

  • Homes with heavy cooking and high activity.
  • Anyone wanting a uniform appearance with minimal upkeep.
  • Households that prefer strong stain and etch resistance.