marble kitchen countertop with backsplash

The 2025 Essential Guide to Marble Countertops

In This Article

If you’re considering marble countertops for your home, you’re making a choice that speaks volumes about your style and taste. Marble has long been celebrated for its elegance and beauty, and it can truly transform any space. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about marble countertops, from their timeless appeal to practical care tips.

Marble Kitchen Stone Backsplash Services

Why Choose Marble countertops?

Let’s start with the basics—why choose marble? Marble isn’t just about looks; it’s a natural stone that brings a sense of luxury and sophistication to kitchens and bathrooms alike. Whether your home has a modern or classic aesthetic, marble can complement any design style.

Timeless Beauty:

Marble has been used in architecture and design for centuries, and its timeless appeal continues to resonate today. It adds an air of elegance and refinement that can elevate your space, making it feel more luxurious.

Aesthetic Variety:

One of the standout features of marble is its variety. You’ll find everything from pure white Carrara marble to rich, dark varieties like Nero Marquina. The range of colors and patterns available means there’s a perfect slab for every design vision.

increased property value:

Many buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with marble, recognizing its luxurious appeal. This enduring popularity means that investing in marble not only enhances your space but can also attract potential buyers should you decide to sell your home in the future.

highly sought after:

Marble countertops remain a popular choice for homeowners and designers alike, and for good reason. Their classic beauty and unique patterns make them a desirable feature in kitchens and bathrooms.

marble countertop cost graphic chart

*Graphic from homeguide.com*

how much will marble
Countertop Costs in 2025?

Granite countertops are an investment, but one that can seriously pay off in both looks and long-term value. So, how much can you expect to spend on granite countertops in 2025? Well, it can vary, depending on a few key factors. Let’s break it down:

marble countertop Price Range:

On average in the Kansas City metro area, Now, let’s talk about the investment. Marble countertops can be pricier than some other materials, but the beauty they bring to your home often justifies the cost. In general, you can expect to spend anywhere from $60 to $200 per square foot, depending on the type of marble, thickness, and complexity of the installation.

factors that effect the cost of marble countertops

Typically, when you’re quoted for marble countertops, the price includes the material, fabrication (cutting the slab to fit your space), and installation. Here are some factors that affect the overall cost:

Quality of the Stone:

Higher-grade marbles with fewer imperfections and more striking patterns will typically come at a premium.

Thickness and Size:

Thicker slabs offer more durability but also increase costs. Larger projects will naturally require a higher investment.

Fabrication and Installation:

Custom cuts, edge profiles, and unique designs can all impact your final cost, so it’s essential to discuss your plans with your fabricator.

Labor and Complexity:

The complexity of your project can affect labor costs significantly. If your installation involves intricate designs, multiple seams, or challenging layouts, it may require more time and skilled labor, increasing your overall expenses.

market demand and location:

The cost of marble countertops can vary significantly based on local market demand and your geographical location. In areas where marble is highly sought after, prices may be elevated due to increased competition among buyers.

Marble Countertop Pros and Cons Graphic

Pros and Cons of Marble Countertops

Like any material, marble has its advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a closer look:

marble countertop advantages:

  • Stunning Aesthetic: Marble’s unique patterns and colors are unmatched, providing a luxurious look to any kitchen or bathroom.
  • Stays Cool: This natural stone retains a lower temperature, making it an ideal surface for baking and food preparation. Whether you’re rolling out dough or preparing delicate pastries, the coolness of marble helps maintain optimal temperatures.
  • Increased Home Value: Installing marble countertops enhances your home’s value. Many buyers are attracted to the elegance that marble offers, making it a worthwhile investment.

marble countertop disadvantages:

  • Porosity: Marble is more porous than other stones, meaning it can stain easily if spills aren’t cleaned up promptly. Sealing your countertops regularly is essential to maintaining their beauty.
  • Scratching: While marble is durable, it can scratch more easily than granite or quartz. Using cutting boards is a must to keep your surfaces looking pristine.
  • Maintenance: Marble requires more upkeep than other materials. Regular sealing and careful cleaning with pH-balanced products are essential to prevent damage.
Marble Bathroom Sink

where to put marble countertops

While marble is undeniably beautiful, it’s best suited for areas of the home that don’t experience heavy use, as it’s more prone to scratches and stains compared to other materials. Here are the ideal spots to showcase marble’s elegance.

bathrooms:

Marble countertops in bathrooms create a spa-like atmosphere, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication. It’s perfect for vanities and shower surrounds where it won’t be subjected to rough, everyday use.

kitchen islands:

 If you want to make a bold statement, marble works wonderfully for kitchen islands, where it serves as a centerpiece. Since it’s not a high-traffic prep area, the marble remains protected while elevating the space’s design.

Fireplace Surrounds:

Marble around a fireplace can turn a simple feature into a grand design element, bringing warmth and elegance to your living room or sitting area without the worry of heavy wear.

marble vs quartz graphic

differences between marble Countertops and quartz countertops

When deciding between marble and quartz countertops, it’s essential to understand their unique characteristics. Both materials offer distinct advantages and aesthetic appeal, but they also have notable differences that can impact your choice. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:

Material Composition:

  • Marble: A natural stone formed from limestone, marble features unique veining and color variations that make each slab one-of-a-kind. Its beauty is unmatched, providing a timeless look that has been cherished for centuries.
  • Quartz: An engineered stone, quartz is made from about 90-95% crushed natural quartz mixed with resins and pigments. This process allows for a broader range of colors and patterns, resulting in a more consistent appearance.

Durability:

  • Marble: While marble is durable, it is more porous and can be susceptible to scratching and staining, especially from acidic substances. Careful maintenance is required to keep it looking its best.
  • Quartz: Quartz is highly durable and resistant to scratches and stains, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens. Its non-porous surface means spills can be wiped away without worry.

Maintenance Requirements:

  • Marble: Regular sealing is necessary to protect marble from stains and moisture, and it requires gentle cleaning with pH-balanced products to avoid damage.
  • Quartz: Quartz countertops are low-maintenance, as they do not need sealing and can be cleaned with mild soap and water.

Aesthetic Variety:

  • Marble: Known for its natural beauty, marble showcases intricate veining and unique patterns that add character to any space.
  • Quartz: While quartz offers a wide array of colors and patterns, its engineered nature allows for a more uniform look, which can appeal to modern design preferences.

heat resistance:

  • Marble: Marble can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface, though caution is still advised.
  • Quartz: While quartz can handle heat, it is not as heat-resistant as marble. It’s advisable to use trivets for hot items to prevent any potential damage to the resin.

cost:

  • Marble: The price can vary based on quality and rarity, typically making it a premium option. Installation costs for both marble and quartz are relatively the same
  • Quartz: Generally, quartz slabs are cheaper than marble slabs while the installation cost is relatively the same.

Interested in learning more about quartz? Read our Essential Quartz Countertop Guide for 2025 to discover everything you need to know!

marble-countertop-care-and-cleaning-1901060-01-160e1bc56fbd4e07bfc10420f26a953d

Photo: The Spruce / Ana Cadena 

Care Tips for Your Marble Countertops

To keep your marble looking its best, follow these care tips:

  • Daily Cleaning: Use a soft cloth with warm water and a gentle dish soap for regular cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the stone.
  • Seal Regularly: Depending on usage, marble should be sealed every 6 to 12 months to protect against stains and moisture.
  • Blot Spills Quickly: If you spill something acidic, like lemon juice or vinegar, wipe it up immediately to prevent etching.
  • Use Coasters and Cutting Boards: Protect your marble by using coasters under drinks and cutting boards while prepping food.

 

edge profile

choosing edge profiles for your marble

The edge profile you choose for your marble countertops can dramatically influence the overall look of your space. Here are a few options to consider:

standard edge:

standard

Standard edge options like straight, eased, or beveled are clean, simple, and typically the most affordable. They work well in modern kitchens, offering a sleek, no-fuss look.

upgrade edge:

upgrade

 If you want something more decorative, you can opt for premium edges like bullnose, ogee, or waterfall. These offer a more elegant or traditional feel and can make a bold design statement, but they often come at a higher cost due to the extra fabrication involved.

Special edge:

special

If you’re seeking something truly distinctive, consider special edge profiles like the Double Waterfall and Mitered Edge.

conclusion:

Marble countertops are an exquisite choice that brings timeless beauty and luxury to any home. With the right care, they can last for years and continue to impress. Whether you’re remodeling or building new, consider the elegance of marble to elevate your space.

choose stone surface inc. for your marble countertops

Serving Overland Park, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, and the entire Kansas City metro area, 

At Stone Surface Inc., we specialize in high-quality stone surfaces, including marble countertops

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