Marble flooring looks stunning on interiors. Though marble is a classic flooring option that has been in existence since the time of kings and emperors, it never went out of trend. Marble is not outdated to date due to its glamor and beauty. Natural stone like marble has always been a premium choice for interior flooring. But it can be used outdoors too, especially on the roof.
Modern-day luxury houses and rooftop restaurants prefer using marble roofs. Marble flooring on the roof looks amazingly beautiful and gives a touch of elegance and luxury. But besides the beauty, maintaining a marble roof is challenging too. So without knowing every aspect of the marble roof, you must not install it.
To help you make an informed decision, I am here with this article. This article will discuss various ideas and aspects of marble flooring on roofs. It would reduce the hassle of research as I have done that on your behalf.
Let’s get started!
7 Superb Ideas For Marble Flooring On Roof:
Before we talk about anything else, let me give you some decoration ideas for marble flooring on the roof. In modern times, there have been new decor plans and designs for rooftops. If you learn about some of them, you may pick up a style for your residence or office roof.
Here are 7 superb ideas for marble flooring on the roof that you will love:
1. A Rooftop Chess Board:
The basic retro yet classy marble roof design is to create a chessboard design on the roof. This decoration is done with Italian Carrara marble. The pattern is just like a chessboard where one white marble slab goes after a black marble slab.
You can either place the slabs diagonally or in a straight line, whichever you like. I love the small black and white slabs while some may prefer large slabs. This pattern shows uniformity and blends perfectly with traditional rooftop decoration. Adding some creeping flower plant would double the beauty!
2. Black Beauty:
For both contemporary and retro roofs, a stunning black marble with white veins and patterns would be a great choice. Black marble is glossy and gorgeous. The natural patterns on them take it to the next level.
If you want to keep it monochromic yet glamorous, I don’t see any better option than this. A black marble roof would be perfect for contemporary rooftop restaurants, luxurious hotels, and houses.
3. Buti Patterned White Marble:
A very popular yet stylish style is buti patterned marble. You must have seen the small buti on white marble that resembles the beauty of a dewdrop on a leaf! The small diamond-shaped buti looks royal and posh blending smoothly with any rooftop decoration.
You can choose between small and big butis. I prefer keeping it subtle and simple with tiny butis. It is so soothing and shines amazingly in sunlight as well as after rain.
4. Bordered Roof Floor:
Rooftop marble designs are generally simple but graceful. Another design is white or off-white marble bordered with plain black marble or patterns. The white marble gives off the shine and gloss while the borders create a style statement. The borders are what make the floor eye-catchy.
Besides plain borders, you can choose patterned ones too. Some borders have diamond butis, some can have geometric shapes. Borders can also have specific motifs for an extraordinary look.
Bordered marble floor on the roof can match any modern and classic decorations.
5. Golden Effect:
Here I propose a unique and luminous flooring idea for your roof. While most designs are based on white and black marble, a golden-tinted marble floor would be an out-of-the-world design.
Golden hues and patterns on the floor create a warm, classy, and posh look. You can order it with darker golden marble. Golden marble shines and dazzles beautifully in all weather conditions. It is an exceptional option, but it is one of the smartest choices for roof flooring. Because nothing else shines more than a golden hue marble floor.
6. A Marble Carpet:
What about rooftop carpeting with marble? Many marbles are designed with delicate motifs and patterns at the center that look like a luxurious carpet. The center of attraction is the design at the center. But just like a carpet, it has patterns throughout the floor.
A marble carpet is truly a style statement that can adorn the rooftop. The true beauty is the precise and fine designs on it. You can match white marble with golden or grey motifs.
7. Marble Planks:
So far, I have mentioned designs with checkered tiles or large marble slabs. But this one has rectangular marble planks for the roof. The marble planks can be of different colors or monotonous.
For any traditional or contemporary commercial building roof, this is a preferred choice. Installation of such planks is easy and the style is beautiful too. Though I don’t prefer using marble slabs on house roofs, you may use them. Marble planks are available in different textures and designs. So you will get a lot of variety in this option.
Price Of Different Marble Flooring On Roof:
You can use different types of marble on the roof. The categories and classifications are different. According to these classifications, the prices vary. So, before you install marble flooring on the roof, it is better to have an idea about the prices.
Here is a price list of different types of marbles available for rooftop flooring:
| Types of Marble | Price Range Per Sq Ft |
| Carrara | $35- $40 |
| Calacatta | $165- $180 |
| Statuario | $50- $60 |
| Danby | $60- $80 |
| Makrana | $10- $15 |
| Botticino | $40- $60 |
| Emperador | $70- $90 |
| Breccia | $180- $200 |
| Cultured | $60- $70 |
| Pink | $25- $35 |
| Black | $70- $80 |
3 Tips To Maintain Marble Flooring On Roof:
Marble flooring on the roof needs to be maintained well. As natural stone is porosity, and may not stay as it is in extreme conditions. Regular exposure to sun, rain, snow, and pollution can fade away the gloss and beauty of marble flooring. Therefore, maintaining marble flooring on a roof can be challenging unless you know the effective ways.
As I know that maintenance is crucial than installing marble on the roof, here are my secret tips for you to maintain rooftop marble flooring:
1. Apply Sealants:
As you may know, marble is a porous stone like most natural stones. High porosity is not good for the outdoors as it absorbs moisture and stains easily. Pollution and dirt settle inside the pores too. This weakens the marble and makes it dirty in a short time.
To avoid such consequences, sealing is mandatory. It reduces the porosity in marble. Though sealing is done during installation, it should be done from time to time to maintain the grace of marble.
Sealants are applied to marble and it gets absorbed by it. This helps to block the pores temporarily. After a certain period, the sealants get washed away and you should reapply them. Otherwise, the pores will be exposed to dust, moisture, and spills. The color will fade away and the gloss will disappear if you don’t apply sealants regularly.
2. Don’t Exert Pressure:
Marble can withstand heavy loads. It is highly durable. But that doesn’t mean it is good to put loads on marble. Marble is porous and sensitive too. It should be used and maintained carefully all the time.
Marble flooring on rooftop restaurants mostly gets high impacts. When sharp objects like knives, plates, table stands, etc. fall on marble or are pulled over it, it leaves scratches or marks. The pressure may look minor but the defect and damage are severe.
Similarly, excess loads and pressure on marble can make cracks. Also, sudden impacts can even break it. So, you have to be careful while handling the marble rooftop. Be it at home or a restaurant, pressure exertion should be minimal. Though impacts are not always manageable, try not to leave any scratch or crack on marble. Repair or replace if there is any damage.
3. Clean Regularly:
Cleaning is mandatory. Marble flooring on the rooftop is exposed to sun, rain, snow, dust, and pollution. This slowly penetrates the surface of marble and the extreme weather can damage it. To avoid the adverse effects of pollution, spills, and weather, you need to clean and wipe it regularly.
To minimize the sun exposure, and wash away rain and snow, you need to clean the marble. This not only cleans the dust but also minimizes the temperature of the marble. You should never miss out on this. Otherwise, extreme conditions can crack, discolor, or damage the marble floor.
Therefore, prioritize cleaning when you have marble flooring on the rooftop. If you go out of the house for a long time, try laying a plastic cover on it. As you can’t clean it, you should cover it to protect it from weather conditions and pollution.
Cleaning Of Roof Marble Flooring:
I am emphasizing marble flooring cleaning because I know how important it is. There is no alternative to cleaning marble flooring. The basic and simple way to maintain a marble roof is to wash and keep it clean.
The very basic task is to vacuum the marble roof every day. Small particles and dust can easily settle in marble pores. Also, they can put on marks and scratches on marble if not removed. So, you must not miss out on removing dirt particles every day either by vacuuming or sweeping with a broom.
For deeper cleaning, use any mild stone cleaner. Never use harsh abrasives on marble. It would make the surface rough and diminish the gloss. Strictly avoid using acidic solutions on marble that you may have used in tile flooring. You have to use pH-neutral cleaning agents on marble. You may use dishwashing soap and water or hydrogen peroxide to leave a dazzling marble roof.
In case of a spill, blot it up immediately to prevent staining. After blotting, gently apply dishwashing liquid and use a microfiber cloth to wipe it off. If you see a stubborn mark or stain on the marble floor, apply a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe it off.
If the marble discolors or loses its grace, opt for marble polishing. Polishing would smoothen the surface, deep clean it, and bring back the shine.
How To Clean Marble Floors And Grout
To clean marble floors and grout, follow these steps. First, sweep or vacuum the surface to remove loose dirt and debris. Then, mix a mild pH-balanced marble cleaner with water, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the marble.
Apply the solution to the floor, focusing on the grout lines. Use a soft mop or a microfiber cloth for cleaning. Gently scrub the grout lines with a soft brush to remove dirt and stains. Rinse the floor with clean water and mop to remove any residue.
Finally, dry the floor with a clean, dry mop or cloth to prevent streaks. Regular maintenance is key to preserving the beauty of your marble floors and grout.
How To Clean White Grout On Marble Floor
Cleaning white grout on a marble floor can be done effectively with these steps. First, sweep or vacuum the floor to remove loose dirt. Then, mix a paste using baking soda and water, creating a thick consistency. Apply the paste directly onto the white grout lines and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate stains.
Use a soft brush, an old toothbrush, or a grout brush to scrub the grout lines gently. Rinse the area with clean water and mop up any residue. For stubborn stains, you can try a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar.
Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners that can harm the marble. Regular maintenance and sealing the grout can help prevent future staining.
How Do You Clean Marble Tile Floors
Cleaning marble tile floors requires a gentle approach to preserve their beauty. Start by removing loose dirt and dust with a soft broom or vacuum. Then, mix a pH-neutral, marble-specific cleaner with warm water, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the marble’s surface. Mop the floor with the prepared solution, focusing on any stained areas. For stubborn stains, consider a mixture of water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue, and dry the floor with a soft, clean cloth or mop to prevent streaks. Regularly sealing the marble tiles can help maintain their shine and protect against stains.
How To Clean Bathroom Marble Floor Stains
Cleaning bathroom marble floor stains requires a gentle approach to avoid damaging the stone. Start by identifying the type of stain: organic (like food or mildew) or inorganic (like ink or metal). For organic stains, create a paste using baking soda and water, apply it to the stained area, and let it sit for a few hours before gently scrubbing with a soft brush.
For inorganic stains, use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia. Always test the solution in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the stain.
Rinse thoroughly, dry the area, and consider resealing the marble to prevent future stains. For persistent or severe stains, it’s advisable to consult a professional.
Related Questions:
Can You Use White Marble On The Roof To Make It Cool Roof?
Using white marble on the roof is not a common practice. Many have the idea that it can make the roof cool. Marble is indeed a heat-resistant natural stone. But that doesn’t mean it can keep the roof cool all the time.
Marble is a dense and thick natural stone. The heat can’t pass easily through the thick layer making it excellent for heat insulation. On sunny days, marble roofs stay at a normal temperature that won’t burn your feet. But if the exposure is high and the sun is bright, the marble surface will get heated.
Therefore, for making the roof cool, installing a marble roof is not the best idea. Instead, any light-colored tile or solid concrete roof would be better if you want the roof to stay cool.
What Should Be Fixed On Rooftop, Ceramic Tiles Or Marble Tiles?
Choosing ceramic tiles of light color is better than installing marble tiles on the roof. As the roof is exposed to heat, moisture, and pollution, a durable and impact-resistant tile should be chosen for the roof. And ceramic tile is better in terms of durability and impact resistance.
In high-impact areas like a rooftop restaurant, ceramic tile is the better option. If you want excellent aesthetic value, you can choose ceramic. But if you prefer longevity and low maintenance, ceramic tile is your cup of tea. It is lightweight too, exerting less pressure on the building than the marble roof. Ceramic has heat resistance as well as the capability to sustain in different weather conditions.
On the other hand, marble roofs require high and regular maintenance. It is costly too and not all buildings can bear the weight of marble. Therefore, scrutinizing all aspects, ceramic tile should be fixed in the roof instead of marble tile. However, it is wise to know the detailed comparison between marble and ceramic, then choose according to the needs
Does Roof Marble Flooring Sustain Heat?
The most amazing quality of marble is that it is heat-resistant. If installed on the roof, the marble would stay cool even under the scorching sun. This is one reason why marble is a preferred roof flooring option in summer countries.
Marble is a dense natural stone with excellent heat conductivity. The stone is heavy and thick. This means it takes a lot of heat to make the surface hot. Marble floors don’t get heated easily due to their density and thickness. This makes marble flooring on the roof heat-resistant.
Even on a sunny day, your feet will feel cool on the marble roof. The marble floor stays cool in heat exposure making it suitable for roofing in tropical areas. No other material other than natural stones like marble stays cool in sun exposure.
Therefore, if you require a heat-resistant roof, marble flooring is the best choice. It sustains heat and stays cool.
Why Marble Flooring On Roof Is Not The Best?
Marble flooring is always one of the classy and smart ideas for interior decoration like living room or bathroom. But is it the best option for outdoor areas like roofs? Many may say yes and others will disagree. In reality, marble is heat-resistant and often used for roofing but may not be tagged as the best option.
Marble is a porous stone. When marble is installed on the roof, it stays exposed to sun, rain, snow, dust, and pollution. Moisture and water can easily penetrate marble surfaces weakening the bond. It also discolors the marble surface and diminishes the grace. Similarly, marble flooring absorbs spills and dirt. As you can’t control the exposure to dust, spills, and moisture, they eventually penetrate the surface damaging the floor severely.
For this reason, marble is not always the preferred roofing option. Another reason is marble is highly expensive. Maintaining a marble roof is even harder. If you don’t seal the marble surface properly and clean it, investing in marble flooring will be a farce. It is not worth it if you can’t maintain the marble condition.
Therefore, install a marble roof only if you can afford it and maintain it properly. Otherwise, it is not the best option for roofing.
Does Marble Flooring On Roof Damage A Building?
It is recommended that you should decide to install a marble roof before making any construction. If you suddenly decide to have a marble roof on an old building or a newly-built house, you may face severe issues.
Marble flooring on the roof can even damage a building’s strength and condition. Let me tell you why. Marble is a heavy, thick, and dense stone. When you install it on the roof, it exerts a load and pressure on the entire building. A lot of structural support is required to install it so that the building can bear the pressure. Now, if the building is old, it may not be able to sustain the load. You may see cracks on the wall and room roofs. So, decide before understanding whether the building can withstand the weight of marble roofing or not.
Another damage that can possibly occur is the damping of the roof and walls. Marble flooring on the roof is not wear-resistant. Besides, if it keeps absorbing water and moisture, it will eventually create damps in the room. You can see the water patches on the wall. This wears out the wall quickly.
To avoid such damages, understand the strength of the building. Consult an engineer and ask if it is good to install marble flooring on the roof or not. Also, maintain the marble to avoid further damages to the building.
What To Use To Clean Marble Floors?
To clean marble floors effectively, use a pH-neutral, marble-specific cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild, non-abrasive dish soap. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the marble’s surface. Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove loose dirt and debris.
Mix the cleaning solution as recommended by the manufacturer, then mop the floor, paying attention to any stained areas. Gently scrub stains with a soft brush. Rinse the floor with clean water to remove any residue and dry it with a soft, clean cloth or mop to prevent streaks.
Regular maintenance and sealing the marble can help preserve its shine and protect it from stains.
Are Marble Floors Hard To Maintain?
Marble floors are indeed beautiful, but they can be somewhat challenging to maintain. They are susceptible to staining from acidic substances like citrus juice and wine and can also be easily scratched or etched by abrasive materials.
Regular cleaning, using gentle pH-neutral marble cleaners, is essential to prevent staining. Periodic sealing is required to protect the porous surface. High traffic areas may need more frequent maintenance.
Despite these challenges, many people find the elegance and timeless appeal of marble well worth the extra care. Proper maintenance, along with cautious use, can help keep marble floor for roof flooring looking stunning for years.
Can I Use A Steam Mop On Marble Floors?
It’s generally not recommended to use a steam mop on marble floors. The heat and moisture from a steam mop can penetrate the porous nature of marble and potentially lead to issues such as discoloration, etching, and even structural damage over time.
Marble is sensitive to extreme temperature changes and moisture, which makes steam cleaning risky. It’s safer to clean marble floors using a pH-neutral marble-specific cleaner and a soft mop. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive tools to maintain the marble’s beauty.
If you’re uncertain, consult with a professional or the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific marble floor type before attempting any cleaning method.
Are Swiffer Wet Pads Safe For Marble Floors?
Swiffer Wet Pads are not recommended for use on marble floors. These pads are designed for convenience and can contain chemicals that might be too harsh for the porous and sensitive surface of marble.
The moisture and cleaning agents in Swiffer Wet Pads can potentially cause staining, etching, or damage to the marble over time. It’s safer to clean marble floors with a pH-neutral, marble-specific cleaner and a soft mop, as well as regularly sealing the marble to protect it.
Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific marble type to ensure you’re using the appropriate cleaning products and methods.
Conclusion:
You are now aware of the pros and cons of marble flooring on the roof. It has its perks as well as demerits. Consider both sides before you decide on installing marble flooring on the roof.
Read the article once again to clarify your queries and make an informed decision.
You may also want to read:
Marble Flooring Types: Know What To Choose
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