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Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: What is granite and how is it produced?
A: Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. During its molten state, other minerals such as feldspar, mica, and quartz are introduced. While slowly cooling over thousands of years, these minerals give the granite its unique colors and grain structures.
- Q: What is the pricing for an average granite countertops?
A: Pricing is based on square footage, shape, and granite color. Due to the hundreds of various colors of granite there are several different price ranges. The price range is determined by the supplier, and the uniqueness or the availability of the stone.
- Q: What is a field measure?
A: A field measure consists of making a pattern or template of your cabinets (including overhangs), noting finished edges, corner details, sink location and your choice of edge profile. We then go over the details with you and ask for a final approval of the plan. Once approved, the stone is cut according to these specifications.
- Q: How are granite countertops installed?
A: Installation of natural stone is a detailed process requiring an experienced and well-trained technician. The seaming process is the primary concern for most customers; this is done by leveling the countertops extremely well and matching the two pieces perfectly. Polyester resins are a preferred method of seaming granite together. Once the countertops are installed, the perimeter of the cabinets inside and out should have silicone applied to give the stone a rubber foundation to rest upon.
- Q: When should I order my countertops?
A: Generally, 3-4 weeks prior to cabinet delivery and installation. In most cases, this will allow us time to receive all materials and information needed to complete your project. As soon as the cabinets are completely installed we can field measure and template your project accurately.
- Q: Why do the cabinets have to be level for my countertops to be installed correctly?
A: Granite is s dense material, with very little flexibility. If the cabinets are note level, there will be a gap between the cabinets and the countertops, which can compromise the integrity and the stability of the stone. Making sure the cabinets are level will also ensure the seams match up and are less noticeable.
- Q: What kind of sink is suggested with stone countertops?
A: A standard drop-in style, under-counter-mount, or farm/apron style sinks are good choices to compliment your stone countertops. Stainless steel and Siligranit sinks are commonly used with stone, but enamel-based, cast iron, and porcelain will work.
- Q: How long after I order my countertops will they be installed?
A: This depends upon when all of the other items that are part of the project are available. Cabinets must be permanently installed, and the actual sink and faucet, cook top or range, and any appliances must be present at the job site. All this information is required before we can template and fabricate the countertops. It is normally about three weeks from initial templating to final installation.
- Q: When should I schedule my project for field measure?
A: We recommend you call and schedule your field measure as soon as you have a date for cabinet installation.
- Q: Do I have to have seams in my countertops?
A: Granite slabs that are cut from quarried blocks range in sizes. The largest un-seamed piece depends upon the size of the slab and the layout of your project. As a quality fabricator, we do our best to minimize seaming.
- Q: I don’t want noticeable seams to detract the beauty of my stone. What is the seaming process?
A: We understand the importance of hiding seams as much as possible. 100% silicone that is color matched on site is used in the seams where we must, and then pulling the two pieces together as tightly as possible. This means the seam widths are one-eighth of an inch or less. We also ease the edges of the two pieces where they meet, as this actually makes the seam less noticeable, and in addition to keeping it watertight.
- Q: What is the difference between engineered stone and granite?
A: Engineered stone is a man made material, while granite is made naturally by the Earth. Granite has excellent wearing properties, making it more durable then most man made materials. According to Moh’s relative scale of 1-10, most granite is rates between a 6-7, where as a diamond is rated at a 10.
- Q: Will granite stain, scratch, or burn?
A: All stone is porous, much like our skin. This is nature’s way of allowing the stone to “breathe” and cleanse itself. Like most man-made products, granite is not stain-proof, but is stain resistant. After installation, an impregnating sealer is applied to the stone. This sealer attaches to the pores of the stone preventing spills from soaking in, yet still allowing the stone to breathe properly. Clean up spills immediately, especially oils, this will help prevent stains from absorbing into the stone.
Because of the hardness of minerals that make up granite, it is very scratch resistant. Most stainless kitchen cutlery will be dulled by the hardness of the granite before it will scratch the surface of the stone. Use caution with cast iron post and pans, however as any burrs on the bottoms can potentially scratch the surface of the stone.
Granite, like other natural stones, is not combustible. High temperatures such as hot pans will not affect the surface of the stone.
- Q: What edge profile do you offer?
A: Flat, bevel, or ½ bullnose edges are the standard edges available at no additional charge. Full bullnose, double bevel, ogee and custom laminated edges are available at an additional charge. Please contact us for a quote.
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