What is Granite?

Granite and other granite-like stones are formed of hard minerals such as quartz, feldspar and mica, which were fused together under intense heat and pressure into a very hard stone ideal for kitchen counters because its polish is resistant to household acids such as citrus and vinegar and is hard enough to resist scratching from knives and pots and pans.

Are Granite Surfaces Scratch or Heat Resistant?

Yes, granite is both heat and scratch resistant. 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. In addition, granite is harder than your knife blades and will dull them quickly if you use the countertop as a cutting surface. Always cut on a cutting board. Granite, hot pots & stains.

Does Granite Stain?

Granite has the ability to stain.  However, we will apply a sealer prior to installation to protect your investment.

 

Does Granite House Bacteria?

Both the Center for Disease Control and The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health have found no evidence of such. In a recent study, granite countertops provided the greatest reduction in bacteria count of all materials tested. Six countertop surfaces were contaminated with E. Coli bacteria, then washed & rinsed using dish soap and “normal and reasonable” cleaning practices.

 

Could the Granite Countertop 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. However, it is more impact resistant than almost all other types of countertops and the granite can be repaired.

 

What are Surface Pits?

Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has tiny pits – spaces between the various mineral crystals. You don’t see them on a larger piece because the overall appearance is polished and mirror-like. Granite sometimes has natural fissures as well, which may look like cracks, but are not structural defects and are a naturally occurring result of the immense heat and pressure which formed the granite eons ago. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the function or durability of the material.

 

How do I clean granite countertops?


A mild dish soap and water will work. Over time, the soap will build up on your tops and leave it looking dull and dingy. It’s easier and more efficient to use  stone friendly products.

 

What are some of the granite countertop colors?


There are hundreds of colors and color combinations. Whites, ivories, blacks & grays, brown, blues, greens, reds, pinks, yellows, tans and violets. The colors can be bright or muted… subtle or bold. The patterns vary also. Speckles, veins, dots, monochrome, etc.

 

Should I see my stone before ordering it?

It’s not mandatory but it’s wise. Each and every piece of granite & stone is unique. The color tones may be lighter or darker from one slab to the next, the patterns vary, and the dimensions differ. You can pick from a small sample but this sample will never showcase the uniqueness of your slab.

What are granite remnants?

Remnants are smaller pieces of stone. You can’t special order remnants. What you see at your fabricator’s place of business are your choices.  Remnants work great if you need a small piece of stone and you’re not set on a specific color. Think bathroom vanities, shelves, table tops, small desks and bar tops.

 

Matching granite countertops with cabinets?

If you’re unsure of how well your granite counter top will match your cabinets, you can use our Kitchen Planner to help you get an idea of how they will look. You are also welcome to bring a piece of your cabinet down to our factory showroom and compare it next to the granite slabs.

 

Will my cabinets support granite countertops?

Most cabinets will as long as they’re sturdy. Granite spreads its weight out.

 

What are some of the uses of granite?

Granite is used on exteriors and interiors of homes and commercial buildings.
It is used for headstones, kitchen countertops, fireplaces, bars, vanities, sinks, cabinet knobs, switch plate covers, tables, walls, benches, fountains, shower surrounds, flooring, sinks…
whew!… If you can imagine it, you can use granite.

 

What is a fabricator?

That who we are! We measure, cut, shape, and polish the edges of your stone. We can answer any of your questions on specific stones, guide you in choosing your stone type and help you locate your stone of choice.

 

What is the granite installation time frame?


Each project has its own time frame based on size and scope of work needed to be done.  Your sales consultant will provide a projected time frame while planning the project. Normally from time of template to install is around 7-10 days.