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Granite Q&A
What do I do first? Call for a free in home estimate. Then check our references. Come see one of our jobs and call the Contractors State License Board (1-800-321-CSLB) James' license number is 663875. What about sealer? There are a lot of sealer’s on the market and we are always testing them to make sure we use the best. Currently, we are using a sealer that when properly installed it can last up to 5 years for an additional small fee, or you can do it yourself every 6 months to a year. We also have an annual program available. Will I be able to have a working kitchen during the fabrication process? YES! We will leave plywood tops, your sink and your stove in tact until the countertops are ready for install. What is the process? First we demo the existing counter tops, then we make templates. After that, we cut and fabricate the stone and lastly we install your BRAND NEW COUNTER TOPS. What about dust control? Before starting each job, we plastic off the doorways and vents. We cover the furniture, protect the floor, and open the windows and turn on an exhaust fan. Most of the dust is done at our shop, but there is always some dust. We will dust, clean and lemon oil your cabinet’s before we are done. What about seams? Most of the time we put the seams in the mouth of the sink so you will only have a 2-inch seam. Another hiding place is your stovetop (if you have one.) What about my counter tops? We will remove them and dispose of them (but you must remove all of your things from your lower cabinets.) The removal of your counters always makes a lot of construction debris, and especially when removing existing tile counter tops. What about edging? There are lots of edgings. The most popular being the bullnose and probably the most affordable, but there are a large variety of edgings and you can custom your own. (see edging choices) What about scratches? They can happen and they can be repaired professionally. You can cut on granite but it is not a good idea to cut in the same place time after time. What about a new sink? Almost always you will need a new sink. Some people like a self rim sink which sits on top of the counter, but the nicest looking, in our opinion, in the under mount which is mounted under the counter with a polished cut out. What if I want to extend my bar or make my center island top bigger? This is a pretty simple process, but there is a limit without support. What about a new stove? We recommend that you do your upgrades with the installation of your new countertops, but it is ok to keep your old stove. If you decide to keep your old stove and the stove is bigger you can upgrade later and in most cases without difficulties. What about stains? If you put a hot pan or hot oil on granite, it can burn off the sealer. There are products on the market that can lift these stains. After stains have been lifted, it is recommended that you reseal. How do you take care of granite? It is preferable to clean the granite with mild soap and warm water. You can use lemon oil for hard water spots and window cleaner to remove the oil residue left from the oil. How do you maintenance granite? Stone is stone. So, it can chip or stain. However, with the sealers available today it is not likely to stain if it is properly sealed. Chips and scratches can be color filled with epoxy or sanded and re-polished. What is the difference between granite sheets and granite squares? When using squares, you will you have grout joints and it is hard to keep the natural pattern consistent. Squares are great for floors and showers because they are not as thick, however they take longer to install. What is the difference between granite and synthetic granite? First of all, natural stone is unique and original just like hardwoods. No two pieces are the same. Synthetics scratch easier, and because they aren’t real, they leave a questionable look, as if something isn’t right. Synthetics are also in most cases not as thick as natural granite. What is the difference between slabs and tiles? With slabs, there are no grout joints. You can shape natural stone with radius’s, 45-degree angels, custom front edging, and custom backsplashes. This is unlike manufactured tile, where you are limited. How long does is take? Usually between 10-20 days depending on shop space. Where do I go to look for granite or other stones? We have some material on hand, but because of the many choices we usually will take you or guide you to our distributors in your area. How much does it cost? It depends on the stone, edging, and your unique design, but usually between $44.00 and $88.00 a square foot installed with materials. Call for a free home estimate. What about backsplashes? Some people like full backsplashes, some like it just under the outlets and always-full backsplash behind the stove. Some like tile or marble or granite squares. All of these options can be more fully discussed in a free home estimate. This site best viewed with: 1024x768 | IE 6.0+ |