Ranking of Marble Countertop Fabricators & Installers in Murrells Inlet, SC 2024-2025: Top Companies for Your New Countertop

1. Measure the Length and Width of Each Area:
   • Standard countertop depth along the wall: 24 inches.
   • For a kitchen island: Use a width of 27 to 36 inches, depending on your preference.
2. Add Overhangs:
   • Leave 1–1.5 inches around the edges for countertop overhangs above the cabinets. This ensures comfortable access to work surfaces.
3. Cutouts and Openings:
   • Account for sink, cooktop, and appliance cutouts. If you have exact dimensions for the appliances, include them in your calculations.
4. Surface Area and Material Calculation:
   • Calculate the total countertop area by multiplying the length and width of each section. Then, sum the areas of all sections to get the total square footage.

The installation of a marble countertop usually takes from a few hours to one day. For example, a Calacatta marble countertop will require 4 to 8 hours. The time depends on the size, complexity of the design, and the presence of additional cuts:

• Simple installation (one section without complex cuts): 2-4 hours.
• Complex installation (multiple sections, an island, cuts for the sink and appliances): 5-8 hours. If preliminary preparation is required (for example, removal of the old countertop), this may add 2-3 hours to the total time.

Yes, marble countertops need to be sealed because marble is a porous material, prone to absorbing liquids, stains, and acid damage. Sealing protects the surface and extends the lifespan of the countertop. Main recommendations for sealing marble:

1. Frequency: Sealing is usually done every 6–12 months, depending on the intensity of use. To determine if the sealant needs to be renewed, drop some water on the countertop: if the water is absorbed, it's time for a reapplication.
2. Type of sealant: Use specialized marble sealants that prevent liquid absorption but allow the surface to "breathe."
3. Process: Apply the sealant evenly, following the instructions on the packaging, then remove any excess and allow the surface to dry.

Yes, but you need to keep in mind that marble is a very fragile material. Marble countertops are very heavy, and during removal, you must distribute the weight carefully to avoid breaking the material. You will definitely need helpers for this task. Steps for removing a marble countertop:

1. Disconnect all utilities: Turn off the water, electricity, and gas if the countertop is connected to a sink or cooktop.
2. Remove the sealant: Use a knife to cut through the seam between the countertop and the wall or cabinets to break the sealant.
3. Loosen the adhesive: Gently insert a putty knife or scraper between the countertop and cabinets to begin separating the adhesive. Move slowly to avoid damaging the fragile marble.
4. Lift the countertop: Use a mounting bar or crowbar, inserting them under the countertop along its entire length. Marble is more fragile than quartz, so work carefully and evenly to avoid cracks.
5. Use a solvent if necessary: If the adhesive is very strong, you can use a safe stone solvent to loosen it. This is particularly useful for marble, as it is sensitive to mechanical stress.
6. Carefully remove and move the countertop: Marble is heavy and fragile, so assistance may be needed. Lift evenly and avoid moving the countertop while suspended to prevent breakage.

The cost of marble countertops in the USA varies depending on several factors:

• Type of marble: Rare and high-quality varieties like Calacatta or Carrara are more expensive.
• Size and thickness: Larger or thicker countertops require more material, which increases the price.
• Installation complexity: Custom shapes, cutouts for appliances, and other features can raise the installation cost.

To remove stains from a marble countertop, it's important to consider its porosity and sensitivity to acids. The method depends on the substance causing the stain. Here are some examples for removing stains from different types of marble, including Carrara, light, dark, and others:

1. General stains (oil, food stains)
   • Mild soap solution: Mix warm water with mild soap and wipe the stain with a soft sponge. This helps remove most surface stains.
   • Baking soda paste: Apply the paste to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and leave for a few hours. Then gently rinse off.
2. Grease stains (oil, lotions)
   • Cornstarch or flour: Apply dry powder to the stain to absorb the grease. After a few hours, sweep away the powder and clean the surface.
3. Organic stains (coffee, wine, fruit juices)
   • Hydrogen peroxide solution (3%): Soak the stain with hydrogen peroxide and leave it for a few minutes, then rinse with water. Hydrogen peroxide is safe for most light marbles, but it's best to test it on an inconspicuous area first.
4. Rust stains
   • Rust removers: Use products that are safe for stone. Avoid strong acids like vinegar or lemon juice as they can damage the marble.
5. Ink and marker stains
   • Rubbing alcohol (for light marble): Wipe the stain with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol, then rinse with water.
   • Acetone (for dark marble): Apply to the stain, wait a few minutes, and rinse with water.

It's important to understand that the thickness of a marble countertop can vary based on the individual project. Below are the standard and most popular thicknesses:

• 3/4 inch is a thinner option. It is used with additional support or with a bevel to create the appearance of a thicker countertop. This thickness is often applied in more decorative projects but can also be used for kitchens when a lighter, more elegant look is desired.
• 1 1/4 inches (one and a quarter inches). This is the most popular thickness for kitchen countertops, as it provides the optimal balance of strength and visual mass. It is more resistant to damage and does not require additional reinforcement.
• 2 inches. This thickness is rare but used for creating design accents or unique projects, particularly for kitchen islands.

It’s important to use delicate methods since marble is a soft and porous material. Here are a few tips to keep your countertop looking well-maintained:

1. Removing small scratches and soft polishing for shine
   • Take a sanding sponge or fine-grit sandpaper (600–1000 grit). Gently polish the scratched area using circular motions. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the surface.
   • After sanding, wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove dust.
   • Now it’s time for polishing. You can use marble polish or a marble polishing paste. Use a soft cloth or microfiber, and polish the surface in circular motions until you notice a shiny finish.
2. Removing deeper scratches and restoring the shine
   • In this case, we recommend contacting a professional, as special equipment is required for sanding and polishing. However, if you are confident in your skills and perhaps have done this before, use diamond attachments for a grinder. The polishing process is similar to removing minor scratches, but it will take more time to complete.
3. Sealing the countertop
   • After polishing, apply a special marble sealer to protect it from stains and maintain its shine. Keep in mind that regular sealing helps prevent new scratches and keeps the marble looking glossy.

The weight depends on the thickness and size of the countertop. Below are average figures, but your specific countertop may be lighter or heavier. A countertop with a thickness of 3/4 inch weighs approximately 13–15 pounds per square foot. A countertop with a thickness of 1 1/4 inch weighs approximately 18–20 pounds per square foot. For example, let's calculate the weight for a 10-square-foot (approximately 0.93 m²) countertop:

• 3/4 inch thick: 130–150 pounds (59–68 kg).
• 1 1/4 inch thick: 180–200 pounds (88–98 kg).

Marble for kitchen countertops, as well as other surfaces, comes in a variety of types and colors. There is also natural marble and engineered marble, offering a wide range of options to suit different styles and budgets. White and Light Marble 1. Carrara Marble

• Color: Light gray or white with fine gray veining.
• Features: A classic Italian marble celebrated for its elegance, commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms.

• Color: Bright white with bold gray or golden veining.
• Features: A luxurious and rare marble, often chosen for upscale interiors.

• Color: White with dark gray contrasting veining.
• Features: One of the most expensive options, used to create striking design accents.

• Color: White-cream with soft gray and beige veining.
• Features: Perfect for warm interiors, adding a touch of softness and sophistication.

• Color: White with gray veining.
• Features: Quarried in Vermont, USA, known for its durability, and often used as an alternative to Italian marble.

• Color: Black background with white veining.
• Features: Spanish marble that creates a dramatic effect, often used for accents and countertops.

• Color: Light gray background with soft veining.
• Features: Commonly used to create neutral and calming interiors, suitable for floors, walls, and countertops.

• Color: Cream or beige with subtle veining.
• Features: Warm Spanish marble popular for flooring and walls, adding coziness to interiors.

• Color: Brown (ranging from light to dark) with white or golden veining.
• Features: Spanish marble that adds a warm accent, frequently used for countertops, floors, and fireplaces.

• Color: Deep reddish-brown with white and gray veining.
• Features: Spanish marble often used for accent walls, fireplaces, and decorative elements.

• Color: Red with pinkish and beige veining.
• Features: Popular for countertops, floors, and decorative surfaces.

• Color: Vibrant red with dark and light veining.
• Features: Indian marble ideal for luxurious interiors and decorative features.

• Color: Terracotta red with soft light veining.
• Features: Italian marble, commonly used for flooring and wall cladding, adding warmth to spaces.

• Durability and Non-Porosity: Resistant to stains, easier to maintain, and does not require sealing.
• Affordability and Lightweight: More budget-friendly and lighter than natural marble, simplifying installation.
• Eco-Friendliness: Production has a lower environmental impact.