How does water infiltration damage the structural integrity of marble?

Water infiltration poses a significant threat to marble's structural integrity due to its porous nature. When water penetrates marble, it dissolves calcite—the primary mineral in marble—leading to erosion and weakening the stone's internal structure. Over time, this process causes micro-fractures, surface pitting, and loss of cohesion between mineral grains.

Repeated freeze-thaw cycles exacerbate the damage as water expands when frozen, creating internal pressure that widens cracks. Additionally, water carries pollutants and salts that crystallize within the marble, further stressing its structure. The combination of chemical dissolution and physical stress ultimately compromises marble's load-bearing capacity and aesthetic quality, making it prone to crumbling and permanent deformation.

Humid environments accelerate this deterioration, emphasizing the need for proper sealing and maintenance to preserve marble structures. Without protective measures, water infiltration can transform durable marble into a fragile, deteriorated material over time.