Why Choose a Marble Fireplace
Nothing spells luxury in a room quite like a marble fireplace. Its elegance and grandeur would be difficult to match using any other material for a fireplace. While marble has become more available and less expensive, it is still a more costly material to use than others for a fireplace. If it is the look you desire, the extra cost will be well worth it.
Marble is a crystalline, metamorphosed limestone. The veins and markings in colored marble come from various impurities present on or in the original limestone. Marble has been used in architecture and sculpture for years. Its strength, durability and beauty make it a fine candidate for a fireplace. In fact, one could find an antique marble fireplace rather easily, demonstrating marble’s appropriateness from which to construct a fireplace.
One can use marble in only one or some elements of the fireplace and attain that stunning look. If you have an existing fireplace but want to add some marble, with some hard work and the proper tools you can update it to a marble tile fireplace. Or an entire marble fireplace surround could be purchased to replace your existing surround. If you have the budget you can have a custom marble fireplace mantel carved from a single block of marble. This is a costly option, but then you can assure the product will meet your specifications, and be truly unique.
Like any natural marble structure, marble fireplaces require special maintenance. Many common household foods, drinks, and other substances can damage marble. Because of this, spills should be cleaned immediately. Some examples of things that can damage marble are, alcoholic beverages, vinegar, coffee, wine, mustard, and carbonated beverages. The high acidity of these substances can etch the marble, so care should be taken when removing a spill; try to blot it off instead of wipe, to avoid further etching to the marble. Then proceed to clean further, using only cleaners specifically designed for natural stone. While marble may require a little extra care, it’s well worth it for the beauty demonstrates.
Natural marble is not the only option. Micro, or man-made marble is a very popular choice for those who desire the look and durability of a marble fireplace, but don’t want to pay the price or be as cautious in its care. Micro marble is formed by combining crushed natural marble and other stone, and is then set with resin and other hardeners. It is easier to work with than natural marble. Man made marble can be made in various colors. One of the biggest differences you will see in real and cultured marble is that micro marble is more consistent in color and markings and natural marble is not. Some would argue that this is a positive attribute of micro marble, while others would argue that part of marble’s beauty comes from its uniqueness.
Consider marble for your fireplace. With the options available, it may be a more reasonable that you though. It is a timeless and beautiful choice for your fireplace.