How to Restore Etching on Marble Countertops

Unlike stains, discoloration, and water spots, restoring etching on marble countertops can be much more difficult to address. This is primarily because etch marks are the result of the marble corroding due to acidic substances, such as chemical cleaning solutions or acidic fruits.

Etching on marble is actually quite common on kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities. The main reason for this is that most individuals are unaware that traditional, household cleaners can actually harm the marble surface over time. As the acids penetrate the marble stone, the surface will eventually corrode and the appearance of the marble significantly dulls. And because marble is a softer natural stone, the risk of etching is even greater compared to granite and slate countertop alternatives.

If you are noticing etch marks on your marble countertop or vanity surfaces, first determine how the etching occurred. Pinpointing the cause of marble etch marks can help you prevent it from happening in the future. Next, you'll want to evaluate the extent or severity of the marble etching. Minor etch marks can typically be restored with a designated marble gloss restorer or polisher. However with severe instances of etching, you may need to invest in a marble restoration kit to buff and refinish the countertop surface.

D.I.Y. Solutions to Remove Etch Marks from Marble

By equipping yourself with the proper tools and marble restoration products, you can remove etch marks from marble without needing to spend hundreds on restoration services. An economical solution is investing in a specially-designed marble gloss restorer. Most stone restoration compounds are formulated with advanced polishing powders and harmless extracts that effectively restore light scratches and minor etch marks. Depending on the quality of the compound, most marble restorer products cost between $15-30 and are fairly easy to apply.

In cases of severe marble etching, a restoration or refinishing kit may be required. Typical do-it-yourself marble restoration kits include buffing and refinishing tools, as well as the gloss restorer compounds to completely renew the natural stone surface. Even though most marble refinishing or restoration kits range from $150-300, the expense a kit is still less costly compared to hiring a professional to do the job.

Being aware of how to clean and protect your marble countertops is the optimum defense. Although you can always restore etching on natural stone countertops and vanities, the best way to protect against etch marks is proper care and maintenance.

Before hiring a professional to restore severe etch marks on your marble, check out some of these do-it-yourself marble restoration kits. For minor etching on marble, this marble restorer works wonders and costs about $18 to purchase.