Some marble products are prone to thermal shocks. Both in the surface resin and the matrix. It is advisable as a precaution, not to run hot water directly on to marble surfaces. Always turn on some cold so the water doesn't get warmer than needed. An option for those who have ample hot water tank capacity, is to lower the thermostat on the tank. Another concern is if one lives in a colder climate during the winter and the tub is installed on an outside wall of the house. The cool air on the back side of the tub combining with the hot water hitting the inside makes a ripe environment for a thermal shock crack in the matrix. Matrix repairs can be problematic and costly, especially if the crack is large. Matrix cracks also usually leak water and render the tub or shower unuseable. A prevention measure it install a vent to allow ambient room temperature are to circulate to the back side of the tub.

Thermal shocks to the surface resin gives a crazing appearance. Since it is just on the surface and the matrix remains intact, the marble remains water tight keeping the product useable. It is just a cosmetic concern. The crazing almost always manifests under the faucet where the water hits the marble. Again, the prevention measure is to not run hot water on it. However, if the damage is already done it is possible to diminish the appearance of the cracks by soaking in bleach. Just fill the marble vanity sink or tub until with bleach until the damage is covered before going to bed. In the morning drain the bleach. The crazing lines will be less noticeable. However, the lines will still be there and the bleaching process will need to be repeated from time to time depending on use.

On marble vanities a workable solution for some is to cut out the sink portion with a jig saw, keeping the counter section, and installing a porcelain or metal drop-in style sink.

Another solution that is tempting, is to get marble refinished to cover the crazing. Just be aware that with marble and fiberglass products it is difficult to get the paint off when it comes time to refinish them again. Which is often in only a few years or even months considering the wear and tear sinks can get. With metal tubs, industrial strength paint stripper can be used. But the stripper usually causes chemical burns and melting on fiberglass and plastic based products. If there is a marble pattern, that look will be lost as the paint is monotone. Note that cracks in the matrix are a structural issue and just painting over the problem will not help. With marble products, prevention is best. Although chips can usually be repaired to near new condition by an expert.