Polished marble looks beautiful, but is an intriguing paradox. On one hand, marble is hard, durable and lasts for years. On the other hand, the polished surface can be marred by chemicals, stains and abrasion. Keeping marble in its magnificent, original state, takes ongoing tender loving care.

Sand and grit carried from outside by shoes can easily scratch and abrade the marble surface like a sandpaper. Unprotected furniture legs leave scratches too. Marble is porous and can easily be discolored by spills from food, planter pots, metal furniture legs, oil, ink, water damage, etc.

Spills from drinking liquids or food containing acid will etch (dull mark) marble surfaces. For example: lemon juice, orange juice, carbonated beverages, cranberry juice, apple juice, wine, tomato, etc. Another source for etch marks are cleaning products containing acid. For example: Tile cleaners, vinegar, powder cleansers, etc.

In addition to chemicals containing acid, chemicals that contain high alkaline or bleach can damage marble floors. Local water may contain chlorine, salts, magnesium, potassium and other minerals. When water is used continuously to clean the marble floor it may ruin certain types of marble by causing pitting, spalling, and yellowing. This is why it is so important to protect the floor with a premium sealer.

Continuous use of water as the sole cleaning agent (without chemicals), or using dirty mops, or not changing the cleaning solution frequently enough, can cause the marble to look dingy, streaky and unattractive. Not having a steady use of dust mop and damp mop may cause a decrease of shine. In addition, a yearly maintenance may be required to renew the shine especially when the floor is exposed to a medium or heavy traffic.

Protect the floor with a premium penetrating sealer to reduce etch marks and prevent stains and moisture from filtering into the marble. To apply the sealer properly, call a professional stone care company. Traffic areas should be resealed on a yearly basis.

Install a mat by the main door to prevent sand and grit from spreading on the floor causing scratches and dullness. A good quality mat will capture dirt before someone walks on the floor. When it is placed outside your door it will signal people that they need to wipe their feet before entering the house. According to studies, it takes approximately seven steps to remove most loose dirt from one's shoes. Therefore it is recommended to place mats both in and outside.

Protect all furniture legs that come in contact with the marble with special felt or plastic pads. Proper protection will reduce the damage from scratches. Place all plants on a special base (can be purchased in home centers) to prevent deep stains and scratches.

Use only neutral cleaners or stone soap liquid specifically formulated for natural stone that will not harm the surface. Dust mop or vacuum the floor at least 1-2 times per week to eliminate sand and grit to reduce possibilities of scratches. Do not use oil- treated dust mops on marble surfaces. Do not get the dust mop wet; if the floor is wet be sure to dry it before dust mopping. Run the dust mop in one direction, do not move it back and forth. Always store the dust mop keeping its head off the ground. Wash it in cold water with laundry detergent and machine dry. Damp mop the floor regularly 1-2 times per week to remove dirt and soil. Mix solutions as per manufacturer's direction. Always use clean cold or warm water. Do not use hot water since it will cause the floor to streak. It is important to rinse and wring the mop as often as possible.