Q. Hi, I just bought white Carara marble kitchen countertops. What products should I buy to keep them clean? Also, should I seal them? I belive the brand of marble is Valentino. THANKS, jIMMY

 

A. Hey Jimmy. If your countertops are honed they will be quite porous so you will need to seal them. If they are polished you need to do the water test (puddle up some water, wait 10 minutes and wipe away the water. If a dark mark remains you will have to seal. You could easily do the sealing yourself. Just be  careful to follow the instructions, being especially careful that no sealer remains on the surface of the countertops. Alternatively, you could hire a pro to do it for you. (You can find one in your area by visiting the Find a PRO section at www.stoneandtilepros.com)

 

As far as cleaning goes a good stone safe countertop cleaner will do you well.

 

Just keep in mind that your countertops' primary component is calcium carbonate. This mineral is acid sensitive and will react with acids no matter if sealed or not. If your countertop is honed it will fair better than if it is polished.

 

Stu Rosen