If you’re remodeling your bathroom, the time will come when you have to choose what material to use for your countertops. Bathroom counters are important: visually, they set the tone for the look and feel of your bathroom, and practically, they are workhorses and need to be strong. So many options are available for countertops, but if you have your heart set on a natural stone look, you may want to consider cultured marble.

How is Cultured Marble Made?

Cultured marble is a manufactured substance. It’s composed of crushed marble fragments that are blended with synthetic resins in proportions of about 75% crushed marble and 25% resin. Then, a color is mixed in but not blended completely. This results in the gorgeous veining you expect from marble. The mixture is poured into molds and left to harden. Then, it’s coated with a clear, protective gel.

Because cultured marble is made from marble fragments, unlike natural marble, which is quarried, transported, and cut into large pieces, cultured marble is much less expensive. It is often a third to a half of the price of natural marble.

Cultured marble is used for many things in home renovation: in bathrooms as countertops, shower surrounds, bathtubs, and tiles, kitchens as countertops and backsplashes, and in laundry rooms as countertops and tiles.

Cultured Marble vs. Natural Marble: What’s the Difference?

Both cultured and natural marble countertops are gorgeous. Marble countertops are stylish and classic, a look that fits any aesthetic and won’t go out of fashion. The veining in marble gives it a unique, dynamic, natural look that adds interest without being visually overwhelming.

You know I love the look of honed marble, which is natural marble with a smooth matte finish (as opposed to polished marble with a glossy finish). Cultured marble gives you both options–a matte or glossy finish.

One of the most significant functional differences between cultured and natural marble has to do with sinks. Because cultured marble is formed in molds, the sink is integrated into both bathrooms and kitchens (A backsplash is also often incorporated into the countertop design). With natural marble, a top or undermount sink needs to be used.

A natural marble countertop will generally need one or more seams, depending on the size and shape of the counters. This does not have to be a design disaster, as a good installer will know how to make the seam less noticeable. But with cultured marble countertops, this is not even an issue. Cultured marble doesn’t need seams–you always get a flawless bathroom surface.

Another big difference is that cultured marble doesn’t need sealing due to the clear gel finish that covers the surface. Natural marble needs sealing about twice yearly to keep it looking its best. Cultured marble is much more low-maintenance than its natural counterpart.

Should I Use Cultured Marble for My Bathroom Counters?

As you can see, there are many great things about cultured marble. Is it a good choice for bathroom countertops? Read on for the pros and cons to make an informed decision for your bathroom remodel.

Pros:

• Cultured marble is much more durable and easy to maintain than natural marble.
• There are countless options available in terms of color and design
• Cultured marble is significantly less expensive than natural marble (and many other types of stone countertops)
• You have more control over design consistency than you would with natural stone
• Countertops can generally be repaired, if damaged, with a gel compound

Cons:

• Cultured marble can be damaged. While coated with a clear finish, the marble remains relatively porous and susceptible to staining.
• Anything acidic (citrus, some cleaners, vinegar) can damage the surface. Make sure to clean up spills quickly and thoroughly.
• All marble is a relatively soft stone and can be scratched
• Quality control can be an issue with cultured marble products. Research your potential manufacturer well to ensure you’re getting a quality product.

How to Care For Cultured Marble Countertops

If you decide that cultured marble countertops are perfect for your bathroom remodel, help them look their best and last a long time by learning to care for them. Remember that marble–including cultured marble– is a soft stone. This doesn’t mean you have to baby your countertops–treat them kindly, and they’ll repay you with years of showstopping beauty.

Clean your countertops with a damp rag and mild cleaner, like dish soap. Cleaners with bleach or abrasive cleaners will damage the surface, taking away the gloss or even producing pits in the stone.

Scratches can be repaired with a gel compound like Gel Gloss. It’s a good idea to use Gel Gloss, or another similar product, on the whole surface once a year or so to buff out any scratches you might not have seen.

If you spill something and aren’t able to wipe it up immediately, you may be left with a stain. You can sometimes get the stain out with a 50/50 solution of water and vinegar, but it’s a good idea to test it in an inconspicuous spot first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.

You can also polish your cultured marble every now and then to maintain the gorgeous finish. Do this by applying Gel Gloss or another similar product and buffing the marble until it gleams. 

Is Cultured Marble for You?

There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding if cultured marble countertops are suitable for your bathroom remodel. Durability, design, cost, maintenance, and style all need to be taken into account.

Cultured marble is an excellent option if you love the look of marble but want something a little easier to care for and a little less expensive. With care, it will look great in your remodeled bathroom for years. If you need more ideas for your bathroom remodel, you might enjoy my post, 8 Inexpensive Bathroom Upgrade Ideas to Make Today!