Frequently Asked Questions
What are your standard sizes for paneling?
We are a custom plant which can manufacture to any size up to 60” wide and 118” tall.
How thick are the panels for tub and shower surrounds?
They are 3/8” thick.
Will my vanity top have an integral back splash?
Only if you order the NO DRIP molded back vanity top. This includes the raised lip on the front edge and one side. Standard size NO DRIP edge tops will have raised lips on all three sides. All other edge designs will have set-on back splashes. All side splashes are set-on regardless of edge design.
Do you do the tear out and plumbing?
We manufacture and install cultured marble, but we can provide a list of contractors that would be happy to help you with tear-out and plumbing.
What is your warranty?
We have a one year warranty on materials and installation.
How far out are you scheduled?
Normally we are two to three weeks out on our production and installations.
How long will it take?
Typically we are in and out with the cultured marble installation in one day.
Do you deliver?
Typically not unless we are installing the materials, however, we are happy to help make other arrangements.
Can I install this myself?
If you have common sense and basic carpentry skills – YES! No special tools are required. So, read on.
Can you install over existing tile?
Marquis Marble will not install over tile or guarantee panels that are installed on top of tile. We do not recommend installing over tile for several reasons. One is the paneling does not adhere well to the glazed surface of tile. Another reason is that you do not know if there has been any water damage behind it.
Can you put a seat in my shower?
Yes, we have a standard corner seat which can be installed in a corner where you have added an additional wooden (i.e. 2” x 4”, plywood) support before the wall board is put up. We can also put cultured marble over a pre-framed bench style seat.
When replacing wall board behind where cultured marble panels will go, should I tape the seams?
This is not necessary for us, however if local codes require taping then do so, just prime or size areas where plaster is used so glue will stick.
What adhesive is used to adhere panels to walls?
Any good quality sub floor construction adhesive can be used (i.e. Liquid Nails, OSI sf 400, PL 400). 100% white silicone should be used in all seams where marble meets marble. Use a good quality latex caulk where marble meets the walls because silicone can cause a problem with paint in the future.
How do I prepare my walls for proper installation of cultured marble panels?
Usually it is easier to remove tile with the existing drywall rather than the tile separately. If the tile is removed separately and the drywall or plaster is in good shape, then use a wall scraper to remove loose material to achieve a relatively flat surface. The construction adhesive for the new installation will stick well to this surface.
Water resistant drywall (greenboard, cement board, tile board, etc.) can be used if required by building codes, however, all of these backers were designed for use behind tile because when it leaks through, it will not damage the drywall. Cultured marble panels don’t leak, they’re one solid piece. Taping and plastering the seams in new drywall is not necessary. If taping is done, make sure these areas are primed so that glue will stick.
When I order wall panels, can I get a custom shower base to match?
Yes. Most of our shower bases are made to custom order with drain locations and size to match existing rooms. To prepare the room, you need to drywall down to the floor. Our pan is one piece with the perimeter flange built into the house and made integral upon installation with total support provided by this flange and expanding urethane foam. A schedule 40 ABS or PVC pipe will accept our standard shower drain. Houses are many times ‘out of square’, our bases will fit these houses – as opposed to pre-manufactured ‘out of the box’ bases.
What are the advantages of cultured marble over real stone or tile?
Cultured marble is manufactured with natural marble dust that is mixed with polyester resins. This process encapsulates and binds these raw materials. Along with the clear gelcoat on the surface, this process makes the material impervious to staining from products such as hair dyes, certain shampoos/conditioners, and colored liquids like wine. Many natural stones, such as marble, are porous and are likely to absorb these liquids. Tile has grout joints that are also porous.
How do I clean cultured marble?
Once installed, cultured marble requires minimal care. A rubber or plastic squeegee used after every shower will remove most water drops and soap scum. However, over time an accumulation may occur. If further cleaning is required, avoid cleansers that are abrasive other than Soft Scrub – type products. Any spray-on bathroom cleansers or soap scum removing cleansers are fine. White vinegar is also excellent for removing hard water deposits. Apply vinegar with a spray bottle and wait for nearly an hour. Rinse with water and wipe with a sponge or rag. Repeat as necessary. Gel-Gloss is an excellent product for annual maintenance. Gel-Gloss is available at our plant or from most hardware stores.
Can scratches or chips be repaired?
Cultured marble is an extremely durable product, however scratching and chipping sometimes occurs. A qualified repair person can buff out scratches with polishing compound and repair minor chips with a gelcoat compound that contains the same material that was originally used. Cracks or broken pieces usually cannot be repaired.