Faux Marble Countertops: Pros, Cons, and DIY

Faux Marble Countertops: Pros, Cons, and DIY

When browsing for the perfect stone to decorate your house, you may come across faux marble countertops. If you’ve heard of them before, you know these products are a popular choice for homeowners who want to achieve the luxurious look of natural marble without the high cost. Made from a combination of materials such as plastic, resins, and polymers, faux marble countertops can offer a convincing alternative to their natural counterpart (no pun intended). But are they worth the budget spent?

Well, it depends on your ultimate purpose. Before you make a decision, it’s important to understand both the pros and cons of faux marble countertops – including creative liberties, eventual cost-benefit, and even installation hacks surrounding the material.

Keep reading the article to find out whether they are the right fit for you or not! In case you’re also interested in faux granite, click here.

Pros of Faux Marble Countertops

There’s a reason why faux marble countertops are a thing nowadays. Technically, they are a downgrade of natural marble, but visually they are very much alike. If you’re not a perfectionist, the difference between both versions goes mostly unnoticed. That said, check out some important points to consider:

  • Affordable: Faux marble countertops are significantly less expensive than natural marble countertops. They offer an affordable way to achieve the high-end look of marble without breaking the bank.
  • Lightweight: Faux marble countertops are relatively lightweight compared to natural marble, making them easier to install and transport.
  • Easy to Clean: Faux marble countertops are easy to clean and maintain. They can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and do not require special cleaners or polishes like marble slabs.
  • Aesthetic consistency: Unlike the natural version, which can have variations in color and pattern, faux marble countertops offer a uniform appearance – leaving aside the traditional veining of quarried marble. This can appeal to homeowners who want a consistent look throughout their kitchen or bathroom.
A white faux marble slab.

You may also like: Cultured Marble Countertops – Pros and Cons

Cons of Faux Marble Countertops

On the other hand, there’s also a reason why faux marble is not the go-to recommendation on the professional front. Just like off-brand items, these cheaper products never stand up to the originals in the long run. Check out some of their main drawbacks below:

  • Poor Durability: Faux marble countertops are not as durable as natural marble countertops. They can easily scratch and chip, and the surface can become dull over time.
  • Limited Color Options: Faux marble countertops are limited in terms of color options. They are usually available in only a few shades of white or gray, which may not match the aesthetic of your kitchen or bathroom.
  • Not Heat-Resistant: Unlike actual stones, faux materials are delicate and far from heat-resistant, which means that hot pots and pans can cause damage to the surface. This makes them less than ideal for kitchens, for instance, where hot items are frequently placed on countertops.
  • Visible Stains: Above all, faux marble countertops are prone to staining and discoloration. Like plywood, they can be easily marked by acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, and tomato sauce.
  • Not Eco-Friendly: Faux marble countertops are not environmentally friendly because they are made from synthetic materials that can be harmful to the environment and cannot be recycled.
Black marble countertops.
A real dark marble slab.

But can I Install Faux Marble Countertops Myself?

Well, that is another tricky question – and one that depends entirely on your expertise and resourcefulness. Installing any kind of slab requires physical and financial effort, considering you will be responsible for transportation and handling all the way through. On top of that, without professional help, it will be much harder to cut or polish your counter if needed, which alone takes many special tools and techniques.

Nevertheless, if you still decide to install faux marble countertops in your home, here are five straightforward steps to follow: 

Step 1: Measure the Area

Before purchasing the faux marble countertop, measure the area where it will be installed. This will help you ensure that you purchase the right size and shape.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Clean the existing countertop surface to ensure it’s free of dirt, grease, and debris. Sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper to create a rough surface that will help the adhesive bond better.

Step 3: Cut and Install the Faux Marble Countertop

Cut the faux marble countertop to the correct size and shape using a circular saw with a diamond blade. Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the countertop surface and place the faux marble countertop on top. Use a roller to press the countertop firmly into place.

Step 4: Seal the Edges

Apply a silicone caulk to the edges of the faux marble countertop to seal any gaps and prevent water from seeping in.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Clean the surface of the faux marble countertop with a damp cloth and allow it to dry. Apply a coat of sealer to protect the surface from stains and scratches.

Installing any kind of countertop is a handful.

Get the help of experts at Eagle Stones!

Faux marble countertops can offer an affordable and attractive alternative to natural marble countertops. However, they share several cons, including limited color options, poor durability, and susceptibility to stains and scratches.

While faux marble may seem like an attractive and affordable option at first glance, the cons far outweigh the pros most of the time. If you’re looking for a durable and high-quality countertop material, we recommend considering natural options such as granite, marble, or quartz.

At Eagle Stones, we believe that natural stone is always the superior choice when it comes to countertops. Not only are they more durable, but they also offer a wider range of color options and customer support, besides being environmentally friendly. If you’re in the market for new countertops, consider choosing natural stone from Eagle Stones!

Our team, located in Sarasota, FL, has been providing our clients with high-end supply, installation, and maintenance services for over a decade, embracing a catalog of imported slabs from all over the world. If you live near us, don’t hesitate to contact our office and get a free quote of your own today!

We’ll be waiting for you.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Share on email
Share on telegram
Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Share on email
Share on telegram

Share This

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Share on email
Share on telegram

Related Posts

Leave A Reply