Frequently Asked Questions

Cultured marble, a type of solid surface, is made from a mix of polyester resin and marble stone dust. It is cast or formed in a variety of standard and custom molds to vanity tops, shower pans, and shower walls with a surface that resembles marble. Because cultured marble is made with a molding process, it allows incredible design flexibility compared with stone. For instance, only engineered composite manufacturers can make a bathroom vanity with an integrated bowl (or bowls).

Cultured Marble is a precise blend of polyester resins, catalyst, fillers, and pigments. It is thoroughly mixed and placed into open molds which are coated with a clear or colored gel-coat.

The gel-coat is specially formulated to produce a tough, durable, non-porous, and shiny surface. It is extremely stain-resistant and easy to maintain. The shape of the product depends on the mold used. The colors and veining of the finished product depend on the specific formulation and the techniques of the manufacturer/pourer. As such, each manufacturer produces his own specific finishes and colors.

Brandt Molded Marble provides their customers with a wide selection of colors (both solid and veined backgrounds), and has a broad range of molds, shapes, designs, and sizes available to meet your needs.

Real marble is a high-end, luxury natural stone quarried from the earth, and cultured marble isn’t, but it is related.

Cultured marble is man-made, blending pulverized natural marble with synthetic resins and dyes. Once formed into a countertop, it’s coated with a clear, protective gel.

Many cultured marble/granite shops have their products tested regularly by a testing laboratory for compliance with ANSI specifications.

This is an expensive test that is done to ensure the product the marble/granite manufacturer is making will be a durable, high-quality product that the customer can enjoy for many years.

The marble/granite is tested for stain resistance, scratch resistance, impact strength, and susceptibility to hot and cold water. Whirlpool tubs are tested further for proper drainage and hair entrapment.

A label will be attached to the product showing the product meets or exceeds all specifications.

“Crazing” are tiny hairline cracks around the drain that become progressively worse over time. Crazing is a problem that happened with cultured marble several years ago.

Today, with the advancement of technologies in equipment and raw materials, crazing has virtually been eliminated.

Also, the testing done by product testing labs ensures that the product has maximum resistance to crazing.

With the technology changes and product testing, crazing should not be a problem for tens of years.

Cultured marble/granite panels and shower pans are solid pieces with no grout lines to clean or keep sealed.

The seams are sealed with a mildew-resistant 100% silicone caulk that requires little in the way of maintenance.

Building structures shift with the change of temperatures, which may cause grout lines to crack and crumble. This problem is avoided with the use of cultured marble/granite.

Firstly, cultured marble/granite showers are constructed solid and strong with very little give and flexibility. Therefore, over time they do not tend to crack or leak as an acrylic insert does.

Secondly, cultured marble/granite wall panels come separate from the base and thus are easier to maneuver than a bulky one-piece shower insert. Cultured marble/granite can be custom-made to fit nearly anywhere.

Vanity tops can be installed by the homeowner. They are heavy and usually require two people. We have instructions available on how to do it.

Whirlpool tubs and shower systems require more skill, yet some homeowners elect to do it. It is a cut-and-fit process that requires special tools and, although possible, it is recommended that skilled installers install our products.

YES! Brandt Molded Marble’s sell for 30%-60% LESS than granite & quartz options, yet have a very similar look and completely comparable quality.

By choosing cultured marble over real marble, you keep more money in your remodeling or building budget without sacrificing anything on the design and aesthetic end. Cultured marble countertops are one of the most stylish, affordable options on the market today. Generally speaking, cultured marble countertops can be had for half or third of the price of quarried natural stones. With little visual difference and tougher durability, cultured marble is a top pick for interior designers and homeowners, alike.

Since cultured marble is non-porous, you do not need to worry about re-sealing every year. Cleaning your cultured marble with a non-abrasive cleaner will keep it fresh and streak-free.

Fortunately, cultured marble is very durable. Unlike real natural marble, it is a non-porous surface, meaning it is resistant to stains from hair dye, shampoos, and other beauty products that are commonly found in the bathroom. Furthermore, if your cultured marble vanity top does obtain a scratch, chip, or blemish, it can usually be repaired fairly simply. The surface can be rebuffed with a gel compound that recoats the vanity top.

Routine cleaning involves minimal work on your part. You should avoid abrasive cleaners, however. If you have a cultured marble shower, it is recommended that you use a squeegee to remove any excess water after each shower to prevent water droplets on the walls. If the water drops are left there, they can easily be cleaned with vinegar via a spray bottle. You can restore the shine of a cultured marble vanity top using a gel gloss or countertop magic product once per year.