D.I.Y. Marble Polishing Tips

For some people who have marble surfaces in their home, the marble polishing process might seem like an overwhelming chore.

How frequently should my marble be polished? 

What kind of polisher should I use?

What does the marble polishing process entail? 

These are some of the questions that may cross your mind. Being conscious of these questions is good, because polishing marble incorrectly could end-up ruining your marble surface.

If you use the wrong polishing agent (typically a high-alkaline polish,) you could end up damaging the marble permanently.

So, why is polishing marble such a tricky affair?

When you compare marble to other natural stones, you will find that it's much softer and sensitive to chemicals and common cleaning agents. That is why it is pertinent to find a marble polish that is suitable specifically for marble.

It's equally important to note that there are different species of marble, each offering different characteristics. The minerals composition of each type of marble will react differently to different polishing products.

For this reason, the minerals contained in the marble are ultimately what determine the best way of polishing it, without leaving it susceptible to damage. Colored marble surfaces tend to be quite pure. This means there are very few minerals that have been added to it's composition.

For example, some species of marble, such as Breccia Nouvella (dark brown), Verde Antique (dark green), and Belgium Black (absolute black) require a more refined marble polish that suits its mineral make up. If you own marble like one of these species, you'll need to find a marble polish with a chemistry that renders a more glossy finish.

In addition to polishing marble, it's also important to seal your marble to ensure it's protected from the elements. Many homeowners believe that polishing marble is a sufficient way to protect the surface from staining or etching, however this is a major misconception.

Highly porous marble will require aggressive sealants so as to provide it with the utmost protection, whereas the less porous types of marble may only require a shallow sealant. The main point to keep your marble looking its original quality is both clean and polish marble on a consistent basis.