Marble Worktop Stain Removal and Etch Repair

Marble worktops are beautiful but demanding. They stain and etch more readily than granite or quartz, and restoration requires different techniques from chip repair.

What Is Etching?

Etching is chemical damage caused by acidic substances reacting with the calcium carbonate in marble. Lemon juice, vinegar, wine, tomato sauce and many cleaning products all cause etching. The result is a dull, rough patch where the surface has been dissolved.

Etching is not a stain — it is actual surface damage. It cannot be cleaned off. It requires polishing to restore.

Etch Repair

Marble etch marks can be polished out by a professional using progressively finer diamond polishing pads. The damaged area is re-polished to restore the original sheen. On honed (matte) marble, re-honing achieves the same result.

Results are typically excellent on Carrara and similar white marbles. On more unusual or multi-coloured marbles, the repair area may be slightly different in sheen — but significantly better than the original etch.

Stain Removal

Marble staining from oil, wine or coloured substances penetrates the porous stone. Professional poultice treatment draws staining out of the stone. Results depend on the nature of the stain and how long it has been present.

Prevention

Seal marble annually and clean up acidic spills immediately. Use pH-neutral marble cleaner only.

Cost

Etch polishing: £95–£200 per area. Stain treatment: case-by-case assessment. Send photos for a fixed price.