FAQs

1. Is granite a natural product or is it man made?
2. Is granite more expensive than man made products?
3. What will determine the cost of my counters?
4. When building or remodeling when should I select my stone?
5. Should I approve my slabs before fabrication?
6. Can Marble be used for my kitchen counters?
7. Can bacteria grow on granite?
8. Can I put hot pans on my granite counters?
9. Is it possible for granite to crack or chip?
10. Do I need to use a cutting board when I cut on my granite counters?
11. What should I use to clean my granite counters?
12. Will Granite stain?
13. How will I know when my counters need to be resealed?

Answers

1.  Is granite a natural product or is it man made?

Granite is quarried (excavated) in its natural state directly from the earth in blocks 10ft. x 10ft. x 10ft. It is then cut into slabs usually 1 ¼” thick and polished on one side.

2. Is granite more expensive than man made products?

Granite is priced at the quarry. Some of the factors that determine the price are availability, color and country of origin. We have found that for the average size kitchen in today’s market granite is still the best value for your dollar.

3. What will determine the cost of my counters?

There are many variables that have to be taken into consideration when we are determining the cost of your counters. The cost of the material, the design of your counters, and the number of slabs to be used are only a few of the factors that figure in the final price. The most important piece of information is accurate measurements supplied by a detail drawing or from our final template once your cabinets are in place.

4. When building or remodeling when should I select my stone?

Every lot of stone is different. Whether it is a stone that has a continuous pattern or one that has a lot of natural movement, there will be color variation or pattern change. We would suggest making your FINAL choice two or three weeks before installation.

5. Should I approve my slabs before fabrication?

If you have not personally viewed or chosen your granite slabs at our facility or at one of our distributors we highly recommend you do to alleviate any surprises at time of installation.

6. Can Marble be used for my kitchen counters?

We are often asked this question. Because marble is a softer, more porous stone and highly susceptible to scratching and staining we do not recommend it. This decision must be made carefully.

7. Can bacteria grow on granite?

Granite performs second to Stainless Steel in its ability to resist bacterial growth.

8. Can I put hot pans on my granite counters?

Granite was formed under extreme heat and pressure. Taking a hot pan from the stove and placing it on your granite counter will not have any detrimental effect. We always recommend a hot plate.

9. Is it possible for granite to crack or chip?

Yes. The majority of cracks or chips are caused by dropping or banging a heavy object against the edge (this is where the majority of cracks and chips appear) these can be repaired to look like new.

10. Do I need to use a cutting board when I cut on my granite counters?

No? Granite has a high resistance to scratching but overtime it will dull your cutlery. It is always best to use a cutting board.

11. What should I use to clean my granite counters?
Mild soap and water. You can also use any daily cleaner made specifically for natural stone.

12. Will Granite stain?

Granite is very stain resistant. However the porosities of granite differ. If not properly sealed some granite can absorb liquid into the pores. It may look like a dark spot on the counter but over time it will disappear.

13. How will I know when my counters need to be resealed?

Some granites are harder than others and may never have to be sealed. We seal your counters before they are installed. If you notice water not beading up or dark areas forming around the sink it is time to reseal. This process may be done on an annual basis and only takes 5 to 10 minutes.