Replies

1. 
   mikemahan | Jun 10, 2002 12:44am | #1

   If this is a kitchen counter, don't do it. Marble is too porous and reactive for use on kitchen counters. For a bath it is fine.

1. 
   MikeR | Jun 10, 2002 01:27am | #2

   I used 12" x 12" marble on all my kitchen countertops.  Its a shade of brown with a lot of fossil flecks, mottling, etc.  I sealed the daylights out of it and reseal about once a month.  Looks great!

   Mike

1. 
   colonel52 | Jun 10, 2002 07:16am | #3

   What did you seal it with? Thanks for replying. It's 12" tile I'm considering. How did you cut the tile around the sink?

2. 
   colonel52 | Jun 10, 2002 07:17am | #4

   Also Mike, did you leave a space between the tiles for grout or butt them together?

1. 
   MikeR | Jun 10, 2002 06:59pm | #5

   I sealed them with a product I believe is made by MAPEI? or maybe Custom?  I got it from from tile and marble supplier and he said its the best they carry.  Wasn't cheap (like $25 a quart and takes three qts to cover my entire kitchen) so it better work well...and it has.  I just keep the counters clean as possible and reapply every once in a while whenever I think about it.

   I butted mine up to one another and then grouted that little line where the two beveled edges of the tile meet.  Gives you about a 1/16th grout line that I like very much.  Play around with various colors of grout to get just the right shade.

   I researched the surface alot before I did it.  Almost used granite tiles but couldn't find a color the wife liked so the marble was the choice.  Spoke with a few folks at stone quarries, suppliers etc and no matter what the stone, its still porous!  They all said you would be surprised how many folks are shocked when they leave a lemon or tomotao sauce on their granite and it leaves a mark.  Key is to seal whatever stone you use and don't abuse them.  No fruit or vegeatbales left directly on the tops (thats what a cutting board is for) no cutting directly on the tops (cutting board once again) and no hot pots on the top.  Even granite and stainless steel can be "hurt" when mistreated...

   ...and don't used silicone based caulk.  It'll bleed into the stone.

   I cut all my tiles with my MK wet saw.

   Mike