Frequently Asked Questions About Stone Countertops

If you don’t see your question below, please call us at 330-331-7488. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have, and want you to know that we’re here for you from start to finish.

How do I get a quote?

Just e-mail or fax us a basic drawing with measurements and you will receive a hardcopy quote back from us. These are not the final measurements that will be used so you don’t have to worry about being exact at this time. You may also indicate where backsplash (if any) will go, and finished edges.

How thick are your countertops?

3 cm (about 1.25″) We also work with 2 cm material which is usually used for commercial projects.

How much overhang do I need to allow where there are finished edges?

1.5″ is a common overhang.

What is the difference between marble and granite?

Marble and granite both are natural stones. Both stones are quarried from earth. Granite is formed deep in earth at very high temperatures and is one of the hardest, stain resistant stones. The Marble family, like limestone, travertine, onyx and slate are sedimentary rock. After millions of years it coagulates into stone. Marble’s main component is calcium; it can be affected by acids.

Can I cut on the granite?

Knives can be used to cut on granite surfaces, but it will quickly dull your knives.

Can granite crack?

Granite does not crack with ordinary use. Granite is most susceptible to cracks during fabrication, shipping and installation. Granite will not flex like laminate and solid surface tops. Do not stand on or next to the sink, cook top cutouts, or unsupported overhangs – as too much stress or weight applied to the stone may cause it to crack.

Can granite scratch?

Granite is one of the hardest stones available. It is extremely difficult to scratch, and should not scratch under normal use.

Does granite stain?

Generally, granite does not stain. All stone is porous to some extent, but granite has very little porosity. A few colors may absorb some moisture with prolonged contact, which may cause the stone to appear darker. Usually, no evidence remains when the liquid is removed and the granite dries. The granite products are sealed prior to or during installation to help prevent staining – however, this process does not make the stone impervious to liquid. Please refer to our Care & Cleaning section for more information.

Can granite chip?

Granite will not chip under normal use – although a heavy object hitting a square countertop edge could chip out a small bit of granite. If this should occur, the chip can be filled.

Will my granite look like the sample?

Samples are not true representations of the entire slab. We stock an assortment of colors for you to select from, or you are welcome to visit one of our stone suppliers and select your exact slabs. The slabs will then be shipped to our location. It should be noted that one end of the slab may be lighter or darker than the other. Although some may view this color difference as being a disadvantage, this is part of natural stone’s inherent beauty.

Will seams show?

The visibility of seams will vary depending on the coloration of the stone. Our goal is to minimize seams, maximize use of material, and create a well-balanced “piece of art.”

Can I set hot pot on my granite countertops?

Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure. It can not be easily affected by heat from cook top and frying pans. Granite will have no melting effect and will not leave any burned marks. You can set hot pots and frying pans directly to granite countertops.

Can I choose what parts of the slab to use?

We recommend coming in for a layout to determine what parts of the slab you like best and where you would like it to go. We do our best to accommodate your selection.

LET’S GET STARTED

Whatever your new project is, we’re here to help. Give us a call at 330-331-7488, or send us a note below.