FYI

MOTHER NATURE MADE THEM WITH:

Color, pattern and particulate variation within the same slab
Fissures or tiny hairline crevices which may look like cracks
Pits or air gaps created during rock formation
Inclusions or cluster of mineral deposits of any color during rock formation
Blemishes and dull spots

HUMANS ENHANCED THEM WITH AND BY:

Polishing the surface to give them a polished, honed, and flamed or leathered texture
Filling up chips and deep pits with epoxy resin colored to match the stone

These are not flaws or defects and will not impair the function and durability of the material. The extreme hardness that makes these stone uncommonly durable and the combination of minerals that creates their unique look make them extremely appealing for everyday use in homes.

It is strongly recommended that you take the time to physically view the color and characteristics of the stone that will be transformed into your countertop. Touch it, look at it in different angles, and make sure that you approve the overall uniqueness of the stone.

CHARACTERISTICS OF NATURAL STONE:

POROSITY- All natural stone can absorb any liquid which can cause discolorations or stains. As a standard, we apply a sealer that will protect your countertop for up to 10 years, then it is up for you to re‐seal. The sealer only delays the absorption of the liquid into the stone to give you enough time to clean it up, but it DOES NOT make it stain proof.

Some colors are more porous than others, and may require more than one sealing application. If you notice any sealing issues after your countertops have been installed, inform us immediately and we will reseal until the stone if fully sealed.

HEAT RESISTANT- There is no need to protect all natural stone from hot objects. Please do keep in mind that natural stones are cooler in nature and can break extremely hot glass and ceramic upon direct contact.

SCRATCH RESISTANT (GRANITE) but not scratch proof. All stone can be damaged by force and no stone is chip proof. Objects hitting edges, particularly at sinks or dishwashers, may cause chips. Impact from heavy object can also chip natural stone. You can cut directly on it but this practice will dull your knives. The natural lines or veins and high polish of granite hides surface markings very well.

MARBLE, ONYX, SOAPSTONE, AND QUARTZITES ON THE OTHER HAND ARE COMPOSED OF SOFTER MINERALS THAT MAKES THEM SCRATCH, ETCH, and CHIP MUCH EASIER THAN GRANITE

ETCHING- An etch mark is a light and dull mark commonly manifested as glass rings, dull spots, and water spots. These are not stains. They are a result of an acidic substance corroding or chemically burning the surface of the stone. Common cleaning products, foods and drinks like coffee, soda, juice, and salad dressing can etch stone. MARBLE AND QUARTZITES ARE MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO ETCHING THAN OTHERS

These are man-made engineered stone formed by combining ground natural stone, resins, polymers, and pigments to form a very hard surface with a predesigned appearance.
They are hard, NON-POROUS surface that does not need sealing treatment on the surface. It takes a lot of impact to chip this type of material.
They also have high resistance to scratching, but if they do, scratches are more visible on these surfaces than natural stone due to its mostly monotone design and luster.
Just like any surface, highly acidic or basic solvents can harm the polish of engineered quartz.
These surfaces can withstand a HIGH AMOUNT OF HEAT, but they can be damaged by sudden and/or rapid change of temperature, especially near the edges, as well as direct and/or sustained heating of the top. Placing very hot objects directly on these surface can scorch the stone.

The corners of stone countertops can be cut square or with a radius. Edging and profiles offer a beautiful finishing touch to granite and marble countertops. They vary in price per lineal foot, depending upon which profile is selected. Ask our design experts for more information. Multiple edge treatments are also available.

BACKSPLASHES

Standard backsplash height is 4” high and same thickness as the countertops. When working with cabinets with existing countertops and 4” splash, we increase the height of the splash as needed to cover paint lines, except for occasions where sills, moldings, and other fixtures prevents us to do so.

Full-height backsplashes cover the entire area between the countertop and the upper cabinets. We may need to measure and install this portion after the countertops have been installed.

Granite Stacked Splashes and Tile splashes are done after countertops are installed. Can be done directly on top of the bottom counter or over the 4” standard backsplash.

OVERHANGS AND SUPPORTS

70% of the stone must be supported.
Standard overhang is 1 ½”
12” Overhang on a regular counter depth is allowed without extra support
Maximum overhangs on Bar tops, Knee Wall caps, and shelves without support depends on the width of the base.
Flat bars, L brackets, Decorative Corbels, and Legs are some of the fixtures used to provide extra support (Final support needed is determined at template)
Supports are recommended at a maximum of 36” apart and secured on studs

Support selected must cover at least 2/3 of the overhang

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

GRANITE, MARBLE, QUARTZITE, SOAPSTONE, and quartz

MOTHER NATURE MADE THEM WITH:

HUMANS ENHANCED THEM WITH AND BY:

CHARACTERISTICS OF NATURAL STONE:

ENGINEERED STONES (SPECTRUM, TC QUARTZ, SILESTONE, CAMBRIA)

Edge Profiles

BACKSPLASHES

OVERHANGS AND SUPPORTS