Category

Care & Maintenance

Carrara marble in bathroom design

Designing a marble bathroom creates a luxurious and sophisticated ambience. Marble is a timeless material known for its elegance and durability. Here’s a basic outline of how you might approach creating a bathroom space with marble:

1. Marble Selection

Marble comes in various colours and patterns. Choose a type of marble that complements your design vision and blends well with other elements in the bathroom. Some of the most popular marble types include our Snow White, Antarctic White, Florence, Carrara, Calacatta and Statuario.

2. Flooring

Consider a format that matches your bathroom space and size when choosing marble tiles for your floor. Alternatively, opt for a marble mosaic pattern to add visual interest. Ensure that the tiles are properly sealed to protect them from moisture.

3. Wall Cladding

You can cover entire walls or create accent walls. Marble wall cladding can be used behind the vanity, around the bathtub, or in the shower area. This will add a touch of luxury and create a spa-like atmosphere.

4. Vanity Countertops and Sink

A marble vanity countertop can be a centerpiece of your bathroom. It adds elegance and sophistication to the space. You can choose a marble slab with distinctive veining or colour to create a unique look.

5. Shower and Bathtub Surrounds

Using marble in the shower and around the bathtub adds a lavish feel. Marble is water-resistant and can be an excellent choice for these areas. Consider creating a marble accent wall inside the shower or a marble tub surround.

6. Care & Maintenance

Keep in mind that Marble (and all kinds of natural stone) requires proper sealing to retain its beauty. Marble must be finished correctly with an appropriate sealant during installation and re-sealed after a few years, depending on surface usage and traffic.

From the rich veins of Marble to the warm tones of Limestone and the classic charm of Granite, explore the diverse world of natural stone in our latest bathroom designs, created by Australia’s most renowned interior designers and architects.

 

September 18, 2023 0 comment
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Elba Marble

Where does Marble come from?

The word “marble” derives from the Ancient Greek μάρμαρον (mármaron) that translates into “crystalline rock, shining stone”. Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallised carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. It forms from limestone being subjected to an immense amount of pressure and heat for long periods of time.

Marble’s popularity as a building material began in ancient Rome and Greece, often used for structures, massive pillars or sculptures. Right from the impressive columns of the Parthenon in Athens to the Pantheon in Rome, marble has been incorporated by architects for centuries. More examples of the countless historic architecture across the globe crafted by marble include the Taj Mahal, the leaning tower of Pisa as well as the Washington Monument & Lincoln Memorial. While Marble is quarried around the world, today’s biggest marble producers are Italy, Spain, China, Greece and Turkey.

Is Marble durable?

marble guide

Marble is an extremely durable material, usually harvested in enormous slabs directly from mountain sides, making it ideal for large applications. Marble is also heat-resistant and remains cool naturally which makes it a popular choice particularly for countertop surfaces and interior or exterior flooring. If you are seeking for a higher level of density and durability choosing the right type of marble and stone finish is a vital factor to consider.

Like all natural stones, Marble is a living, breathing material which needs a little more diligence when it comes to upkeep. Finishing your marble countertop or marble floor tiles with an appropriate penetrating sealant is vital for long-term performance. As long as you are aware of the measures of sealing and caring for your marble properly, you can be a proud owner of a distinctive masterpiece that is exclusively yours and will last a lifetime.

Below are some guidelines to keep your marble looking its best.

Are Marble bench tops and tiles easy to maintain?

The maintenance requirements depend on the type and texture of marble that you select for your project, but as long as you follow these simple steps your marble stone will stay looking beautiful for years:

Like for all natural stone, regular sealing and cleaning are vital for the long-term performance of marble: 

Sealing: All marble products must be finished correctly with an appropriate sealant during the installation process and re-sealed after a few years, depending on surface usage and traffic. We recommend and supply various ‘Lithofin Stain Stop’ sealants for different applications. Find more information about Lithofin at the bottom.

Cleaning & Maintenance: Marble surfaces must be cleaned with warm water and a mild pH neutral cleaner only, as harsh chemicals and acid cleansers can eventually break down the sealer and disturb the finish. Spilled liquids should not be left unattended and wiped up quickly to avoid staining and etching of the material. Always use protective mats to place hot items on the natural stone and put coasters under glasses to prevent unseen spills from remaining on the marble benchtop.

Is Marble suitable for both, indoor and outdoor use?

marble outdoors

Unlike some other flooring types, marble tiles are timeless and will still look as beautiful many years down the track as it does today. It’s a natural material that offers a multitude of textures, colours, and patterns that can add significant value to a home.

Marble is suitable for use both inside and out seamlessly connecting your indoor and outdoor spaces. Thanks to its versatility marble tiles and slabs suit virtually every style of home. When it comes to using marble outdoors, choosing an appropriate stone finish is a vital factor to the function of the stone. Learn more about how different finishes alter the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the stone here.

The most common forms of marble tile and slab installations (residential or commercial) include:

Bottom Line – Why choose Marble?

New York Marble tiles bathroom

Marble has carved its place in history, endorsed by the ancient structures that withstood forces of nature and stood the test of time. It is a natural stone in a class of its own, prized for its timeless beauty, durability, and versatility.
 
When it comes to sheer luxury Marble has no rivals and never goes out of style. A material renowned for its unique ability to adapt to contemporary lifestyles and tastes.
 
Marble stone is heat-resistant and is used to cool down living spaces. It’s also commonly used in fireplaces and can withstand high temperatures without losing any of its beauty.
 
There are countless varieties of Marble tiles and Marble slabs with a colour palette to suit all tastes. Indoors, marble tiles can be used in every part of the home, elevating interior spaces to new levels of refinement. Outdoors, it keeps cool, even in direct sunlight, ideal for the Australian lifestyle.
 
While it has been the epitome of historical buildings and architectural delights for years, the material has become a touch of elegance for every modern home. Marble is an excellent investment – with mindful use and a good design, it is a cost-effective way to enhance the value of your home.

OUR NATURAL STONE SEALANT TIP FOR YOU

Lithofin Stain Stop Sealers & Pre-Sealers
For invisible protection against staining and facilitating the maintenance of natural stone.  Lithofin Stain Stop penetrates into the surface and coats the capillaries with an extremely thin, invisible film. Contact us and we will gladly advise the Lithofin product specifically suitable for your chosen type of stone and finish.

Lithofin natural stone sealer

marble

STS Stone natural stone supplier sydney

You have any further questions, need professional advice on natural stone or a quote?

Don’t hesitate to give us a call or complete the form below and we will be in touch shortly.

T 02 9387 6616      E [email protected]




    March 24, 2022 0 comment
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    Grigio Venato Limestone bathroom vanity

    Today’s bathrooms have become a part and parcel of our domestic architecture, reflecting our living style.

    Use of natural stone tiles and slabs on walls, floors, showers and vanity tops are now increasingly popular not only for the sense of comfort and relaxation but also as an instant visual impact of luxury and timeless splendor.

    MARBLE, GRANITE, DOLOMITE & QUARTZITE are the most popular natural stone bathroom tiles options that will bring beauty, durability and a bold statement of elegance and style to any bathroom design. 

    Natural stone is one of the easiest to maintain and is the most permanent of all surface materials. Stone tiles destined for bathrooms, showers, vanities and bath surrounds will add a significant value to your home, however their appearance and longevity will greatly depend on being adequately maintained. Here are a few tips how to clean a natural stone bathroom tile, sink, bathtub, shower or vanity top:

    MOULD, MILDEW & VENTILATION

    Irrespective of what stone you choose, ensuring your natural stone bathroom and shower is properly ventilated will help prevent mildew and mould growth. The issue with mould and mildew is not the shower surface, but the water that does not drain fully. If your surfaces are water repellent, drained properly and dried quickly, mould and mildew will not form.

    After wiping your shower down to remove excess water, open the shower door or window, or keep your fan on to help the stone dry faster.

    KEEP THE GROUT CLEAN

    Grout is susceptible to mould and mildew growth if not cared for. Use a stone-safe grout cleaner that’s non-abrasive and gently lift the grime with a soft nylon brush.

    REGULAR CLEANING

    Clean the stone with a mild detergent or stone soap. Soaps that are formulated for the natural stone used in your shower can be found at most hardware stores. Using more soap isn’t always better. Too much soap could result in streaks or a film remaining on the tiles after cleaning. Avoid harsh cleaners including vinegar that can damage the surface of the stone. Only use cleaners that are pH neutral.

    For more natural stone bathroom ideas visit our image gallery

    June 18, 2020 0 comment
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    Carrara Druymmoyne

    A stone bench top will always be a feature in your home and in order to keep it looking its best certain precautions should be exercised.

    THE DO’s AND THE DON’Ts OF NATURAL STONE BENCHTOP CARE  

    • Don’t ever sit or stand on your benchtop.  Whilst the stone is very strong, the under cabinet or substrate may not be.
    • Don’t place extremely hot things on your benchtop.  Most of the stones are heat resistant but not heat-proof.  Always use a hot plate rest or trivet.
    • Most Natural Stone react on contact with acid, including acids found in food like tomato, fruit juice, vinegar etc. It’s best to use a cutting board or any other form of surface protection when working on it. This will prevent reactions between stone and the acids from different foods as well as avoiding scratches.
    • Avoid everyday use of abrasive cleaners when cleaning, household cleaners will only remove top polish. It is also important to avoid spilling alcohol drinks or fruit juices as it can etch into the polish. Never leave wet perfumed soaps or aerosol cans on the marble bench tops as they can create stains. Refrain from using sharp objects as they can scratch the surface.
    • To clean stone bench tops use a pure soap that is diluted in water. For best results when cleaning use a clean soft cloth. Don’t use scouring powders or creams, these products may scratch the surface of the stone.
    • Majority of natural stones are factory sealed post production, however you may want to ensure it with a second sealing.
    • Sealing your new benchtop is essential to prevent liquids from soaking in and being absorbed by the material, causing unwanted marks and stains that can be a pain to get rid of.
    • Resealing is generally recommended every 2-5 years but completely depends on the type of stone you have and how the benchtop is used.
    • A quick way to check if your natural stone benchtop needs a new coat of sealer is to pour some water on it and see what happens. If the water puddles up on top of the stone – then your sealer is still working. If the water penetrates into the stone – you know it’s time for a new coat of sealer.
    • Benchtops in Natural Stone provide a beautiful, elegant and classy ambience for many years if they are properly cared for.
    June 4, 2020 0 comment
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    natural stone everyday care Mosman Hallway Grigio Chiaro 3ccc

    The natural stone you have in your home, office, or commercial building is an investment that will give you many years of beautiful service. Simple care and maintenance will help preserve your stone’s beauty for generations to come.

    February 26, 2018 2 comments
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    Sealing and Protecting Natural Stone

    Natural stone is the perfect choice to add a luxurious element to your property. To ensure that your surfaces retain a beautiful and pristine appearance and last for years to come it is essential that you apply an effective sealant. This applies to whatever type of natural tile you choose.

    September 7, 2017 0 comment
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