The Elegance of Marble Tile Floors

Marble has been used for centuries in homes around the world. One of the first civilized people to put marble in their homes was the Roman’s. This culture used marble not just for flooring but also for ceilings. Marble has withstood the test of time and many architectural buildings that installed it can still be viewed today, even centuries after they were constructed.

One of the most famous of all marble buildings in the world is the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. Construction of this superior crafted building is made almost entirely of white marble and began in 1632 and took 21 years to complete. The Taj Mahal was built for Shah Jahan after the loss of his 3rd wife who died during the birth of their 14th child. Today this marble structure attracts some 3 million visitors per year. The floors of the Taj Mahal are a work of wonder and many craftsmen have duplicated them in other buildings and mausoleums. The ivory white marble used in this structure is direct from India as there are several superior marble mines within the country.

Marble is created in its natural form from limestone. This metamorphic rock is made when limestone withstands severe pressure and extreme heat over millions of years. The outlaying stone and other materials surrounding marble is what gives it its overall color. If nothing is surrounding the imbedded area then what you see is pure white marble. This is also true with veining as the limestone is pressurized alongside of another mineral over a long time period.  An example would be an area with limestone and iron; together they produce marble with a red/brown tint or heavy red veins.

One of the issues with marble is matching colors. Each mine, quarry or region can produce a one of a kind color. This is why with marble always keep in mind an important tile rule, purchase 10% over the amount needed in case of damage. Not only does this possible damage pertain to use and wear over time but also during its installation. To find out more on this and other information on color variations, take a look in for a Houston Granite outlet or any other outlet that specializes in marble.

Another problem with marble tiles is the lipping effect. Lipping is when a tile tilts slightly and the corners or edges begin to lift. This issue is a sign of a poorly prepared base. Carefully preparing the surface to which the tiles are being set upon is important. Poor bonding agents can create the same lipping issues. Bonding is extremely important when using marble on walls and ceilings as this is where it will most definitely shift if poorly set.

Other problems associated with marble are stains. One of the easiest kinds of tile to keep clean is in fact marble but staining problems exist from several sources. Soda, coffee and other citric acid drinks can cause staining. Outdoor iron patio furniture or bronze fixtures can stain marble as well. Many simple stains should easily be removed with soap and water. Difficult stains can be an issue and sometimes have to be extracted by using poultice. Poultice is a drawing product and can take up to several days to be effective.

Scratches to the surface of marble is another issue. If the scratch is not deep then anyone can sand them out with 600 grain wet sandpaper.  Deep scratches may need the use of a diamond pad to sand out. Tin oxide powder can be used to smooth down an area till it shines; this should be used after sanding or using a diamond pad.

Cracks in marble can appear over time. Replacement of the cracked tile sometimes is not necessary as anyone can use epoxy filler with tinted colors to match any type of marble. This process takes about 24 hours of drying after filling. Once filled then sand with 600 grain sandpaper and apply marble sealer. To find out more on products like Tin oxide powder, diamond pads and other items associated with marble, take a look in for a Houston Granite outlet and see the multitude of products available.

Marble in any home can make an elegant statement all its own. The costs associated with marble can far outweigh its longevity once installed. Anyone with a home that instills “Pride Of Ownership” to everything they do should take a look into marble for the next project of their own personal Taj Mahal.

Alex Landon is now inspired to travel to India after researching into the history of Marble tiles.

Further Reading

• Should I Choose Floor Tiles or Laminate Flooring?
• How to install natural stones tiles
• Granite vs. Stainless Steel Sinks for Your Kitchen
• The Most Luxurious Flooring in the World
• 3 Amazing buildings to visit in the United States
• Top 5 Tips to Keep Your Bathroom Floor Dry.
• Different Uses of Henna Tattoo