FRIQUENTLY ASKING QUESTIONS
Steps for Measuring
Step 1 Appliances
Determine the exact area of the new counter top location. Determine if existing appliances will remain. If new appliances will be purchased, will this change the existing layout?
Step 2: Sinks and Faucets
Determine if a new kitchen sink(s) or faucet(s) will be added. If you are looking for a simple new sink solution, you can specify one of our stock sinks. This can save both time and money.
Step 3: Existing Cabinetry
If the cabinetry is remaining and not being relocated, sketch the shape of your existing layout.
Using a tape measure, start to measure the length and width of your existing countertops. This should begin at one end of a cabinet/appliance/wall and continue the entire length of the run. In a layout that is located in the corner of two adjoining walls, (see example), measure the length of the run to the actual inside wall corner. When completed, measure the depths of all areas starting at the back wall running to the front edge of the existing countertop.
Curved or Rounded Sections
We are able to produce curved corners and sections with a radius. Sketch these as accurately as possible. Our field Engineer will generate a final drawing for your approval prior fabrication and installation.
Your Preliminary Estimate
Once we have your measurements and specifications, we'll submit a preliminary estimate for the proposed work. Should you wish to modify any of the items, we will promptly issue a revised estimate. Once all details are finalized, we are ready proceed with...
Field Measurement and Final Quotation
We will schedule a convenient time for an on-sight measurement by one of our staff. We then submit a formal drawing or plan for your project along with our final quotation for your approval.
Is granite safe to use in a kitchen?
In a word, yes. There has been some misinformation circulated by competing industries attempting to raise concerns about issues such as bacteria and radon. We would be pleased to share the research that shows that these concerns are not only unfounded but granite actually ranks second to stainless steel in a study measuring the bacteria resistance capacity of six common countertop materials. More on granite safety.
Can I cut on my granite countertop?
Only if you want to ruin your good knives. Granite is harder than your knife blades and will dull them very quickly, if you use the countertop as a cutting surface. Always cut and chop on a wooden or plastic cutting board.
Back to the Top
Can my granite top be damaged?
Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to sharp hard objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite under normal circumstances.
Can I set hot pot on my granite countertop?
Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure combined beneath the earths crust. It can not be affected by heat from a cook top or frying pan. A lit flame placed under the granite will have no melting effect and will not leave any burned or scarred marks.
Best method for cleaning Stone
Note: The first step in stone maintenance is the sealing of the stone. Generally, all granite should be sealed for easier cleaning and maintenance.
Immediately wipe up spills and messes. Use pH balanced cleaners for daily cleaning. Mild dishwashing liquid works quite well on granite surfaces.
Most stones, once protected, only require occasional cleaning to remove surface build-up of dirt and grime. Sealed granite will be very easy to clean and you may want to just try warm water at first to give you the results you need; towel dry to remove streaks.
Do not use Windex or 409 because these products will slowly wear away your pentitrated sealer. These product will not harm granite, but again, you don't want your sealer to wear away either!
Do not use pledge or other wax products because these will leave a buildup and eventual dull your shine. If you have already done this, we suggest using dishwashing soap to cut away the built-up wax. Once you are satisfied that the wax is gone and the granite is looking polished again, just simply applied a stone sealer product according to the manufacturer's recommendation.
Other Information and Helpful Hints
Sinks
There are five main types of sink. Undermount (sits underneath the countertop), Drop In (drops through the counter with edges supported on the top of the counter).
The most common pitfall is buying a sink larger than the net size of the cabinet. The sink should fit within the width of the cabinet with several inches allowed for internal supports .
Cabinet Installation
It is critical that the cabinets be set level no matter what countertop you have. If they are not, the countertops will show gaps that are not attractive. Stress to the cabinet installers that they make sure the cabinets are level to within 1/8" in 4'-0".
Wavy Walls
Most walls are not perfectly flat. Granite, on the other hand, is cut almost perfectly straight. We recommend a minimum standard 4" backsplash to transition between the counter and the wall.
Countertop Jointing
Typical slabs range from 7 feet to 10 feet long, and 4 feet to 6 feet high, allowing long runs and L-shaped pieces. L-shapes however cost slightly more due to the extra manpower required to carry the obtuse load and the waste creted from the inside of the L. The maximum size we can provide varies depending on the weight and size of the stone with relation to the ease of entry to your home.
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