Learn Our Terminology
While discussing your project, you may hear us refer to fissures and beauty marks. The following definitions will help you understand what we mean by both:
Fissure: A natural cleft usually in granite or marble, it has small visible lines on the surface of the polished slab. These are not scratches and do not impair the structural integrity of the slab.
Beauty Marks: A natural occurrence in granite or marble where crystalline structure differs in size, color, or pattern from the typical characteristics found in that material.
Granite is a very popular choice as countertop material for both kitchens and bathrooms for many reasons. Granite’s durability make it ideal for use in kitchen and bathroom remodeling and countertop replacement. It is virtually stain resistant and resistant to mold and mildew. Second only to diamonds in hardness, granite is almost impossible to accidentally chip, break, or scratch. Granite is also impervious to heat, making it a perfect natural surface for countertop applications. Cleaning granite is as simple as using warm water and mild dish washing detergent. It is important to remember that granite is a natural product and no two slabs are exactly the same. Therefore, it is recommended that each slab be viewed and approved before fabrication has begun.
Granite is an igneous rock, which means at one time in its development it was molten rock like volcanic lava. Composed primarily of quartz and feldspar, its inherent hardness is due to the extreme pressures deep within the earth’s crust. These pressures kept the molten rock below the surface as it slowly cooled and crystallized resulting in uniform stone that ranges in color from black and gray tones to pinks, browns, reds, greens and whites.
Marble is the most elegant of the natural stones. It is commonly used in bathroom vanities, tub decks, shower walls, and ornate flooring. Because marble is softer than granite, it is not as worry-free. Marble is less stain resistant than granite and is susceptible to stains from citric acids, alcohols and oils. Consequentially, marble should be treated similar to fine quality wood surfaces. Spills should be wiped up as soon as possible. However, don’t let this stop you from considering marble for your surfaces. Many people consider the beauty and elegance of marble to be worth the added care.
Marble is a metamorphic rock. It was once a limestone, but over time, the combination of heat and pressure caused the limestone to re-crystallize. At this point foreign objects like fossilized plant-life and sea-life entered the stone. This created a unique stone with varying colors, textures and veining.
Just like granite, quartz is one of the hardest surfaces on earth. Quartz is a non-porous natural stone that has a gem-like color to it. Quartz is very popular for kitchen countertops because of its durability and endless color choices. Resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, quartz is perfect for your culinary escapades. Unlike many other stone materials, quartz does not need to be sealed. Because it is also eco-friendly, there is no fear of harming the environment when installing these beautiful countertops.
Quartz is created by the molecules of silicon and oxygen being pressed together in decorative form over a long period of time. Having quartz countertops will give your home the ideal look that you’ve always dreamed of.
THE PROCESS
- Begin by Contacting Us for a Free Estimate!
- Job Confirmation
- Stone Selection
- Template*
- Fabrication
- Quality Inspection
- Existing Counter Top Tear Out (if necessary)
- Installation
- Follow-Up
*WHAT IS A TEMPLATE?
After job confirmation we will set up an appointment to template over existing cabinets. This usually occurs within 2 to 3 business days. We ask you to clear all surfaces that are to be removed and replaced by natural stone and empty the cabinet beneath the sink so we can disconnect the plumbing. Some demolition may happen in certain instances, but we try not to disrupt your kitchen during the fabrication process. In the case of a new home, we ask that the cabinets are set and in their final positions. The entire template process will take a few hours to complete. During this time we:
- Make a layout of your cabinets with thin strips of wood
- Discuss seam placement with customer
- Discuss countertop overhang and general support
- Edge Profiles will be finalized
After the template is complete the customer must give a 65% down deposit for the project.