Marble Slab for Your Countertops
Finding the perfect marble slab for your countertops can be a daunting task if you’re not sure what to look for. There is a myriad of variations in marble to choose from at a supplier. This can overwhelm anyone, even if they already have a general idea of what they want.
However, this timeless stone is well worth the effort! Marble brings a level of elegance that not many other countertop materials can.
If you’re unsure of how to choose the best marble slab, not to worry. Continue reading to see some of our tips to help you on your journey to a more beautiful home!
Have an Idea in Mind
At the least, when you visit the slab supplier, you should have a general idea of what color of marble you want. It’s also worth considering factors like whether or not you’d like more veining or less. If you go into the slab supplier facility without something in mind already, the massive selection can be overwhelming.
Not to suggest that you should keep your decision set in stone, but it helps to have something in mind. If you happen to see a slab that looks nothing like your idea, and you fall in love with it, that’s fine!
Call the Supplier in Advance
No one wants to waste their time. If you arrive at the marble slab facility and they don’t have anything like the idea you had in mind, it can be a bit of setback.
Call the supplier in advance to check if they have any marble slabs that match the color, style, and size that you need for your space. You can inform them that you want to stop by and even schedule a tour with someone who can guide you to the slab that you’re looking for!
By calling ahead, the supplier may also pull some different marble slabs out in preparation for your visit.
Be On the Lookout for Damage
If you damage, such as cracks or chips, it can signify that the marble slab has been poorly handled or dropped. Cracks can compromise the integrity of the slab and make for a bad fit for your home.
Bear in mind that cracks are not to be confused with fissures. Fissures may look like a crack, though they’re entirely different. You can feel the difference between the two. If you slide your nail across a crack, it will catch while a fissure should remain smooth.
Fissures will not alter the strength of the slab and can even be an excellent feature for someone looking to obtain a rustic look.
Ask About Where the Slab Came From
If authenticity and quality matter more to you than having a slab that simply resembles the look you want, you should ask the supplier about the slab’s origin.
It’s not uncommon for a supplier to call a slab of white marble with veining, Calacatta marble. However, it may not be authentic as Calacatta is originally mined from mountain quarries in Carrara, Italy. The marble in question could be a knock-off from another country.
Another common marble that can be mimicked is Statuario, another Italian marble. Don’t be fooled by imposters, always ask about the slab’s origin.
Moving Forward
These simple tips should help you get started on finding the best marble slab for your new countertops!
Remember to have an idea of what kind of marble you want, call your supplier in advance to see if they have anything that matches your idea, keep an eye out for damage, and ask about the stone’s origin for authenticity.
One last tip for the road, don’t stress over picking out your slab, have fun with it!