How to Refinish Cultured Marble Countertops

Cultured marble has evolved as a cheap substitute for solid marble. It is a mixture of resins and marble dust. It offers great amount of versatility. However, cultured marble lacks the sturdiness and resilience of solid marble. As a result, it is susceptible to scratches, stains and other abuse. Chemical cleaners, rough usage can strip the cultured marble of its beauty. Over the time, it loses its shine and becomes a lackluster commodity. You may think of replacing your cultured marble countertop in that case, however, refinishing is one option you should consider before giving up on your cultured marble countertop. Refinishing cultured marble countertops is a fairly easy DIY task.

Method #1

For refinishing marble countertop using this method, you will need sandpapers in varying grits such as 200, 400 and 600, soft washcloth, gloss polyurethane varnish, sander and paintbrush. First, clean the countertop with any non abrasive, neutral pH cleaner. Abrasive cleaners tend to erode the surface of the cultured marble countertop and are a main cause of scratches and stains that you see. You may use a soft toothbrush to clean the area which is hard to reach by a scrubber. Once, it is free of any dirt, grime, rinse it with distilled water. Wipe it clean with a soft towel. Next, take a damp piece of 200 grit sandpaper and start sanding manually or with a sander. Start from one edge and work evenly to proceed to the other edge. Clean the countertop with a soft washcloth and take a 400 grit sandpaper. Repeat the same procedure with 400 grit sandpaper and then 600 grit sandpaper.

By this time, the countertop should be free of any scratches or marks. If you still see some imperfections, then correct them with appropriate sandpaper. Wipe the countertop clean. Take a paintbrush and mix the polyurethane varnish. Apply the gloss varnish evenly and in long, straight strokes. Cover the entire countertop in a thin coat of varnish. Allow it to dry for 3 - 4 hours. Then, apply a second coat of varnish in the same way. Allow it to dry overnight.

Method #2

This is yet another method of refinishing countertops. You need car wax such as Carnauba based wax, cleaner, masking tape, cultured marble repair kit etc. Use a mild soap solution or stone cleaner for cleaning cultured marble countertop. Scrub the grimy areas with soft scrubber or toothbrush. Rinse it well with distilled water. If your countertop is chipped at places, use a repair kit to fix the chipped areas. Once you have taken care of all the chips and cracks, you can proceed to actual refinishing. Apply some Carnauba wax directly to the countertop and start buffing. Carnauba wax can be bought from any automobile repair and parts shop. You need to buff in the same way as you buff your car. Work in circular areas so that wax gets evenly absorbed in the marble. The more it gets absorbed, the more shine it will render to the dull countertop. Seal it with an appropriate marble finish.

If you are not confident about doing the task on your own, you can hire professionals to do it. Professional job ensures that your cultured marble countertops are restored to their original beauty.

Thus, refinishing is indeed a better alternative to complete replacement. The cost would depend upon the size of your countertop and any additional improvement job required.