Frequently asked questions about marble - maami home

Marble stands out as a material of choice throughout history. The Greeks and the Romans made it famous in their architecture, building remarkable works, and many artists established its beauty through iconic sculptures and timeless decorative objects. If there's one material that has managed to maintain its prestige over the centuries, marble is undoubtedly one of them.

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Despite being universally well-known, for some, the use of marble still raises several questions, and pertinent enquiries relating to marble are received here at MAAMI HOME every day.  Some of the main questions we're asked are how to take care of it, whether it can be used in a certain product, and how to make it withstand the challenges of time.

Here are our four most frequently asked questions about marble and how best to care for it. 

Where can we use marble?

Marble can be used outdoors and indoors. Certain types of marble, such as Travertine, Carrara or Grigio Nuvolato, are perfect for outdoor use thanks to their sturdiness and UV resistance. Other stones, such as Portoro, Calacatta Viola, or Calacatta Oro, are most commonly used for interior decoration on dining tables or accessories due to their striking features and exceptional beauty. To learn more about these and other marble stones, visit our raw material directory on our website.

Marble is perfectly suited for floors or walls, as well as in cladding, in bathrooms, kitchens, or furniture such as side and coffee tables, sideboards, lamps, accessories, and more. Some of the most famous monuments that celebrate marble in a unique way include the Taj Mahal in India, the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, and the Lincoln Memorial in the USA.  In addition to these monuments, it is important to note that many iconic sculptures, such as Michelangelo's David and Alexandros of Antioch's Venus de Milo, are made of marble, where the translucent properties of this stone stand out, ideal for working and creating realistic effects.



Is marble a durable material?

Although a natural material, marble is highly durable. This stone is known for its purity and robustness, having built a reputation for durability over hundreds of years. Each piece of marble is unique because it was created by nature — and what some call imperfections are, in fact, unique characteristics of the stone, such as lines and fissures. However, those who own marble objects should bear in mind that they require some specific care, with different recommendations for different purposes. Shiny polished marble floors, for example, show signs of wear more quickly than matt marble. But don't worry; in either case, you can always hire a service to restore the surface and give it back its original look.
 

Is marble heat resistant?

Yes! This means that it is not as prone to damage from hot objects. We do advise however, that you use coasters and other protective mats because very hot elements left on a surface for an extended period can mark the surface of any natural stone, leaving it discoloured and stained. Nevertheless, one of the advantages of marble is that, with the right products and professional help, you can usually remove stains or scratches and re-polish if any damage occurs.




What care should be taken when cleaning?

When it comes to cleaning marble, what not to do is as important as what to do. The improper use of products can easily damage marble. Here are some of our tips for marble care:

• We do not recommend standard cleaning products, as they may contain acids and chemical components.
• We strongly recommend choosing surface-specific products. A soft cloth and warm water can do the trick in many cases.
• If you spill something on the marble surface, try to clean it up as soon as possible. 
• Marble surfaces can be treated with a special anti-stain product if necessary
• Lastly, you can apply a stone sealant product to restore protection to the affected area. If you choose to seal marble stone, use a quality product and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
   

Marble is one of nature's most versatile materials, and it's no coincidence that it has charmed different civilisations throughout the ages — its diverse possibilities are one of the reasons for its appeal, along with its unrepeatable beauty and different shades, which can give rise to timeless works, designed for several environments, both indoors and out.

At MAAMI HOME, we love working with this stone, and our teams receive notes of appreciation and questions from customers worldwide on a daily basis. If you have any questions, share them by or speak directly to our team. We're on hand to help you learn more about marble and the characteristics of our materials.

Have you ever wondered if that sleek marble table in your living room is more than just a pretty surface?If you're looking for a deeper dive into selecting the perfect marble table, you can check out this blog:Guide to Choosing Marble Tables for Your Home.In this article, we're going to unravel this mystery. We'll dig into what marble furniture is made of, how it's put together, and the nitty-gritty differences between the natural and synthetic varieties. Then, we'll zoom out to see how furniture, in general, can affect the air quality in our homes with a sneaky little chemical called formaldehyde. Don't worry; we've also got the scoop on how to pick safer marble pieces without sacrificing style.

1. Getting to Know Marble Furniture

Marble furniture has a timeless beauty and a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations, where it was prized for its elegant appearance. Today, it's loved for adding a touch of luxury and class to any home.

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What's Marble Made Of?

Marble is created deep beneath the Earth's surface when limestone, rich in calcium carbonate, undergoes a transformation due to intense heat and pressure-a process known as metamorphism. This leads to the re-crystallization of the original minerals and forms the distinct veiny patterns marble is famous for. Marble's durability comes from this dense crystalline structure, but it also retains some porosity.

Different Kinds of Marble

While the quintessential image of marble is a gleaming white slab with gray veins, marble actually comes in a wide array of colors and patterns. These variations are due to the presence of different impurities like clay, silt, sand, iron oxides, or chert which were originally present in the limestone. Italian Carrara marble, for example, is known for its blue-gray veining, while the marble from Pietrasanta is often a bright white. The region of Tuscany produces Botticino marble, which has a warm beige hue. Each type of marble carries its unique characteristics and contributes to the overall aesthetic of the furniture piece.

Is Marble Furniture Safe for Health?

In terms of health safety, marble is largely inert, making it non-toxic and hypoallergenic. It does not harbor bacteria or allergens, making it an excellent choice for both kitchen and bathroom surfaces. However, due to its natural porosity, unsealed marble can harbor bacteria in its pores if not properly maintained. Therefore, sealing marble not only preserves its luster but also ensures it remains hygienic. To learn how to keep your marble furniture sparkling clean and hygienic, check out our detailed guide on cleaning and maintaining marble coffee tables.Moreover, unlike some synthetic materials, marble doesn't emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ensuring that it doesn't contribute to indoor air pollution.

2. What Types of Furniture Release Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde is a chemical used in making building materials and many household products. It's colorless, flammable, and has a strong smell. In furniture, formaldehyde is used mainly in the making of engineered wood products.

Which Furniture Releases Formaldehyde?

The most common types of furniture that release formaldehyde are those made from manufactured or engineered wood products. These include items like:

• Particleboard: Often used in bookcases, desks, and some flat-pack furniture.
• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Common in cabinets, wardrobes, and decorative molding.
• Plywood: Used in some types of furniture frames and paneling.
• Laminated Furniture: Sometimes uses adhesives that contain formaldehyde.

Why Do They Release Formaldehyde?

These wood products are made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers, which are then mixed with resin and wax to bind them together. The resin often contains formaldehyde, which can "off-gas" into the air over time.

What About Temperature and Humidity?

Warmth and humidity can increase how much formaldehyde is released from furniture. So, if furniture is placed in a warm and damp room, there might be more formaldehyde in the air.

Is It Dangerous?

Yes, formaldehyde can be harmful. Breathing in formaldehyde over a long time can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.

3. Is Your Marble Furniture Emitting Formaldehyde?

If you're worried about formaldehyde in your marble furniture, it's good to know that marble itself isn't the problem. Marble furniture is often considered a safer choice regarding formaldehyde emissions primarily because of the nature of the material itself. Because it's a natural stone, marble does not contain formaldehyde or any other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as part of its composition.

However, the glues and sealants that are used to put marble furniture together might give off some formaldehyde. When checking your marble furniture for formaldehyde emissions, consider a few details. New marble furniture might give off more of this chemical initially, but as time goes by, the levels typically drop. Also, if you live somewhere warm and humid, those conditions can make formaldehyde release into the air more. Plus, the kind of materials used to glue and seal the marble matter too-better quality means less formaldehyde.

So, when you're shopping for that perfect marble piece, don't hesitate to ask about what's been used to make it. Knowing what's behind and beneath that shiny marble surface can help you pick furniture that doesn't just look good but is also better for the air you breathe at home.

4. How to Select Marble Furniture with Peace of Mind

Want to make sure you're getting high-quality marble furniture that won't compromise your indoor air? Here are some tips:

• Ask about the origin: High-quality marble usually comes from well-known quarries with a reputation for strong, durable stone.
• Check the finish: A top-tier marble piece will have a smooth finish with a consistent polish. If it looks uneven or dull, it might be a sign of lower quality.
• Examine the seams: If your marble furniture is made up of more than one piece of stone, take a close look at where those pieces come together. Neat, tightly fitted seams suggest good craftsmanship.
• Inquire about adhesives and sealants: Don't be shy-ask what kind of materials are used to bond and seal the marble. Companies that use high-quality, low-emission products will usually be happy to brag about it.
• Feel the weight: Marble is a dense material, so if your furniture feels suspiciously lightweight, it might be a synthetic lookalike or mixed with cheaper materials.
• Trust your eyes: Genuine marble will have natural variations and patterns; if it looks too perfect, it could be an imposter.
• Look for transparency: Manufacturers who provide detailed information about their materials and processes tend to be more reliable. Transparency is key.

Investing a bit of time into asking questions and examining the details can lead to a stylish home that's as healthy as it is beautiful. And with these savvy shopping strategies, you'll be able to pick out marble furniture that stands the test of time in both durability and safety.

Final Thoughts

While marble furniture can elevate the look of your home, paying attention to the hidden details is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality. Marble itself is safe, but the adhesives and sealants used in assembly may not be. Armed with the right knowledge about certifications, materials, and construction quality, you're now equipped to choose marble pieces that are as healthy as they are stylish.

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