Maintaining Marble Fireplaces

Introduction:

 Like most things in the home a marble fireplace needs some tender loving care too. A marble fireplace adds a touch of class and beauty to any home providing it is maintained and kept in good condition. For the most part the marble needs regular cleaning but it takes more than soap and water to clean marble because marble is porous.

Marble fireplaces have been a decorative element in homes since the beginning of time. Marble is used in fireplaces because it is extremely durable, although it is quite porous and does not resist stain easily. Just by taking a few precautions can help maintain marble fireplaces in their original beauty making it attractive and appealing for decades.

Tips for Maintaining Marble Fireplaces:

Seal the surface area of your marble fireplace so staining can be removed relatively easy. Seal the marble once a year using marble polish or a good quality paste furniture wax. After applying the sealer, let it dry for several hours before use then buff it out with a soft cloth or electric buffer.

Always blot a fresh stain with a soft cloth. Do not attempt to scrub off the stain with a dry cloth. If it is a dry stain use a fine haired brush to remove it.

When removing a stain that has been sitting for a long time apply a small amount of mild dish detergent with hot water. Us a sponge or soft cloth after it is wrung out to get rid of any excess liquid. Wipe the stain three or four times without scrubbing. Make sure to blot dry with a clean cloth then examine it to see if the stain has been removed.

Sometimes stubborn stains will require a commercially available marble cleaning product. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when using the product.

As an alternative to commercial cleaning products you can make a cleaning paste that will do the job. Follow these suggestions to make your own stain cleaning paste:

·       For dirt stains mix a paste made of whiting with household bleach or 10 percent hydrogen peroxide solution. 

·       For smoke stains mix a paste made of baking soda and liquid laundry bleach.

·       For rust stains rub with burlap or mix whiting with any rust removing compound.

·       For oil, grease or fat stains mix whiting with acetone or mineral spirits.

Apply the homemade stain remover paste over the stain.  Let thoroughly dry, it will take approximately 24 hours and then scrape the paste off with a damp wooden or plastic spatula. Rinse with clean cloth or sponge and clear water. If there is still a stain repeat the process. If the stain has disappeared wipe the area with a clean cloth and wax the surface.

Marble fireplaces will retain their beauty for decades if they are maintained properly. Sealing the pores once a year with marble sealer or a good quality paste wax will help prevent deep staining.

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