So how much time and energy is involved?

Although marble is a beautiful material it will stain easily. Marble tiles and marble slabs have much the same characteristics in that they both break easily if not installed correctly and both stain very easily. Even water will temporarily stain marble.

Spills should be cleaned immediately. Wash marble countertops with a clean, soft cloth at least once a week, using a very mild detergent. Use of a non- yellowing wax for extra protection is recommended. Acid stains, such as fruit juice, should be cleaned immediately, as they may etch into the surface.

Marble is softer and more porous than granite making it less practical for rigorous kitchen use. It can be sealed to protect against stains, but the polish will etch or dull very easily if acidic liquids such as wine, coffee, juices and alcohol are spilled on the surface.

Marble will also scratch much more easily than granite. Over the years the marble will absorb stains, the patina will change and the stone will begin to reflect the essential character of your home. This is especially true of marble tile floors, which become more beautiful with age and use. If you choose to have marble countertops, select a dark marble, this way you don’t have fuss over every spill. If you have the time and money to keep up with marble countertops, then go for it.

Use Sealers

Because of the high absorption rate of most marbles, a sealer should be applied to help slow the rate of water and stain absorption into the stone. Depending on the life of the sealer, it will need to be reapplied periodically every one to three years.

Sealers are readily available on the market and can be easily applied by the homeowner. However, many homeowners have a misconception about stone sealers. Even though a stone is sealed, it does not mean that it is an impervious surface. The sealer can help slow the absorption process, but it does not mean that no staining will occur. Although sealers have improved in recent years, there is no product that will completely protect marble from staining or etching.

For guidance selecting cabinetry, flooring, countertops, and design plans, check out your local DirectBuy showroom. DirectBuy has interior designers and product specialists specially trained to assist you in selecting the right products for your project, plus an installer network to help you put everything together.

I really like the look of marble, and I’m looking for any consensus on the sutability of marble for the kitchen before heading down that road, and possibly regretting the choice.

Any advise appreciated, thanks.

In recent years, granite countertops from DirectBuy have been a must-have in modern, upscale kitchens. But homeowners in the know have begun to discover that quartz tiles and countertops from DirectBuy offer the same benefits as granite – and even out perform it in some aspects!

Here are some quick points to consider:

Quartz is actually stronger than granite. (But remember, this means quartz is heavier, too!)
In terms of cutting and installing slabs, quartz is easier to handle and not as likely to break or crack.
Within a slab, quartz is more likely to have uniform color and pattern than granite, which can vary.
Granite requires sealing (and subsequent resealing later), but quartz does not.
Quartz is highly resistant to scratches and stains.
Quartz countertops, which are engineered multistone countertops, can be installed from Cambria and zodiaq for the look of granite and ultimate durability. Cambria and zodiaq are made from pure, natural quartz, a stone right from the earth. Quartz is one of the hardest and most common minerals on earth, giving cambria and zodiaq the rare combination of superior beauty and strength.

Depending on your lifestyle or commercial application, quartz (solid surface countertops) may be a better choice than granite (natural stone).

DirectBuy carries a large selection of brand-name kitchen tiles, countertops and cabinets at prices direct from the manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. A one-stop shop for all your home building, furnishing and remodeling needs, DirectBuy has virtually everything – including the kitchen sink – for in and around your home.

Now, more than ever, there’s a huge variety in tile available – you won’t believe the colors, sizes, shapes and materials you can choose from. Along with this huge selection, homeowners are throwing many of the old rules of matching tile out the window and having fun creating the bathrooms of their dreams.

Neutrals are still the best bet for a look you’ll love for years to come, but that doesn’t mean you’re limited to just white. Try “new neutral” shades like light blue or sage.

When in doubt about which colors to choose, visit your local DirectBuy showroom. You’ll find tons of tile from top manufacturers, plus interior designers and installers to help you put it all in place.

That’s a great question! You’re absolutely right about seeing a wide variety of tiles in today’s homes. These days, almost anything goes – from 4-inch squares all the way up to 24-inch squares.

The most important factors in picking a tile aren’t about size as much as they are about how the tiles will be used in your home. Will the tile be used in your bathroom? Your entry way? Your kitchen? It’s important to check with your manufacturer about the tile rating system for the areas where you plan to install it.

That said, there are different opinions about how the size of the room should relate to the size of the tile. Some experts believe that larger, 12-inch tiles are not only easier and less expensive to install, but they actually make a small room look larger and more open. Plus, with less lines and grout, they say it creates a cleaner look that is easier to maintain.

Your local DirectBuy showroom offers a huge selection of floor tiles of all sizes, plus interior designers and product specialists specially trained to help you find the right size and style for your home.

Before you buy your tile, it’s important to look into how much time you will need to spend maintaining your investment. It may not be your first priority when you are selecting your tile, but it can make a huge difference.

Tile experts agree that ceramic tiles are generally considered the easiest type of tiles to maintain for walls, countertops and floors. With regular cleaning, they will stay beautiful for years to come. Which tiles require a little extra care? Natural stone and unglazed tile, which are more porous than a glazed tile.

No matter what kind of tile you select, it’s important to consult your manufacturer’s recommendations for caring for your tile, and follow the instructions carefully.