A marble fireplace can be one of the most stunning pieces of decoration that you may have in your home. The marble that you use in your fireplace is perhaps considered one of the most ancient and the most beautiful natural resources on earth. You should also remember that your stone is unique. Others may have marble fireplaces, but each marble piece is unique in its own way containing beautiful coloured veins and maybe even fossils.
Given that you own such a beautiful and unique thing, would you consider making a mess of it with inadequate or incorrect maintenance and cleaning?
A marble fireplace mantle and surround add a touch of elegance to any home. If you look at the troubles that the V&A had when cleaning old marble busts – you’ll see the job you have ahead of you. Old fireplace mantles can build up soot or smoke, which discolors the marble. With proper cleaning, you can restore the color and luster of your marble fireplace mantle and surround. Marble is made of calcium, which dissolves in acid and therefore you should never use acids to clean marble. However, with regular maintenance and the proper cleaners, you can keep your old marble fireplace mantle and surround looking clean and new for many years.
Soot damage
Unfortunately, marble is also a soft stone that is vulnerable to damages and stains. The somewhat oily residue of soot can be especially difficult to remove from marble, leaving many grand old fireplace surrounds looking dirty and aged. Though it may take more than one try, you can clean soot from marble and return the gleam to the marble finishes in your home.
Burn marks
Several types of material can be used as a fireplace mantel or around the fireplace, including brick, stone, granite or marble. While most of these materials are heat-resistant, burn marks might occur from hot embers from the fireplace, a lit match being set down or any other form of heat transfer. Removing burn marks from marble will require some simple household objects: a soft brush, ammonia and water.
It is very important never to use abrasive cleaning products or scrubbers like steel wool to clean marble, as it will scratch the surface. If you are unsure about a certain product, consult an expert at a stone specialty store.