Frequently Asked Questions About Countertops

What are some of the familiar natural stone products used for countertops?
While there are several types of natural stone materials for countertops that can be used, granite, marble, limestone, slate, travertine and soapstone are among the most common ones. Each material has it pros and cons and you should speak with a designer, distributor or contractor to understand which features are most important to you.

What are some of the quartz surfaces brands used for countertops?
The list of quartz surfaces or manufactured countertops continues to grow. There are several brands that are popular choices for commercial and residential needs including Cambria, Casertone, Corian, Formica Stone, Geoquartz, HanStone, Silestone, Technistone, Viatera, and Zodiaq. While each product uses quartz as a main material, each brand has its pros and cons and you should speak with a qualified person to understand which may be important to you.

Are engineered quartz surfaces natural?
While engineered surfaces contain quartz, they are not all natural. Marketers contend that quartz surfaces contain 93% quartz.  However, this number is calculated by mass, not volume.  Therefore the true ratio of quartz is approximately 67 - 73%.  It is also important to note that “quartz” refers not only to natural quartz but glass and mirror particles as well.

Is it true that engineered quartz surfaces won’t stain and that natural stone will?
No surface is stain-proof. Be very careful with anything acidic, oily, red wines, fruit juices or food coloring. These liquids will also stain laminate, other solid surface brands, like Corian and other quartz countertops, such as Silestone. Fortunately, most stains can be removed.

Is granite more expensive than man-made materials?
It depends on the man-made material  Availability, color, and country of origin are major factors that affect the price of marble, granite and other natural materials.  If the supply of a particular stone is short and demand for it is high, the price will reflect that.  Given that stone is a natural product imported from all over the world, the price spectrum is wide.  However, many natural stone materials are offered at the same price or sometimes less than man-made products.

What is the difference between “manufactured stone” and natural stone?
Manufactured stone or cast stone is made up of finely ground stone mixed with resins or cement-based products, then poured into a mold to create either a slab of cast stone or to create sinks, mantels, etc.  Natural stone is strictly cut from the earth then shaped and polished from its original, natural form into the final product.

What veins in natural stone considered weak spots?
Not necessarily.  Some veins are strictly color variations in the stone.  However in some materials natural flaws can exist within the vein, which enhances the color and is characteristic of that stone.  Structurally, with today’s processing, these materials do meet the strength requirements for countertop use.

Will my stone countertops look like the color sample I select?
Since granite, marble, onyx, slate, travertine and soapstone are natural products, with naturally occurring variations in color, tone, granularity, pattern, etc. these variations are expected and are the source of its natural beauty. The samples you see will vary either slightly or to a large degree from the actual slabs used in your project. We strongly encourage all of our customers to preview their actual slab before we begin the fabrication process.

How much does stone weigh?
3cm granite weighs approximately 18lbs a square foot.  An average kitchen of 80sf will weigh approximately 1450lbs.

Do I need extra support added to my cabinets to support the weight of the granite?
Most cabinets should be strong enough to support the weight of the granite countertops. Additional support will be needed for any overhangs larger than 10″, or if you are having granite installed on a half wall with overhang to create a sitting area. If at the final measure appointment you do not have adequate support, your installer will let you know what kind of support is needed and whether that is your requirement or part of the installation process that the contractor is taking care of.

How thick is granite and quartz surfacing?
The standard in the US is 1 ¼” (3cm) material. Depending on the application, however, we can utilize materials as thin as 3/8”.

If we select a natural stone slab for a countertop, what happens next?
Assuming your countertops have already been measured, an update of your estimate will be provided with the natural stone you have selected. From the distributor’s warehouse, the slab or slabs are shipped to a fabricator. These are shops with stone cutting and shaping machines to make the correct shapes and profiles need for your job. Once the slabs have been cut and shaped, the contractor will pick up the material and bring it to the job site for installation.

Can I keep the stone that remains from a sink or cook top cutout?
Sure! The pieces removed from sink or cook-top cutouts however do not have finished edges. If you would like the piece(s) re-cut to size and finished we will be happy to give you an estimate. Some customers will use these pieces as cutting boards, table tops, plant stands, garden pavers, etc.

Is it okay to decorate using different colors of stone?
Absolutely.  When mixing stones, it is a good ideal to consider which material would be the most practical for the space.  For example, when mixing granite with marble, the granite would be best suited for the area around the range because it is the most durable.  The marble could be used on the island or as a dining table.

Will you remove my existing countertops prior to measure & template?
We will gladly remove your existing laminate or solid surface tops. When we provide an estimate for your job, we will ask you if the existing countertop will be removed. The pricing on removal depends on the type of countertop, square footage and complexity of the project.

If I take off my own countertop, how much do I have to remove?
All countertops, build-up, screws, nails, and backsplashes must be completely removed. If wall patching or skim coating is needed after everything is removed, it will be easier to complete before the granite countertops are installed. If your install date is already set, but you need more time to complete the removal work we can reschedule the installation appointment with you as long as you call or contact us 48 hours in advance.

Can I install my own countertop?
Natural or manufactured stone countertops are extremely heavy; require specialized tools and installation expertise. We do not recommend or provide an option for homeowners to install their own countertops.

How many people and how long does the installation take?
Most kitchens will take two experienced technicians a full day to install your countertops. It could take longer if there are several separate surfaces, various heights or a large job.

How do I care for my granite countertop once it’s installed?
For everyday use, wipe your countertops up with a wet washcloth just like you would your laminate countertops. To check if you need to seal your granite, put a small amount of water on the countertop in a space that it will not be disturbed. Let it sit for 15 minutes. If the water is absorbed, you need to re-seal your granite countertops.

How often do my natural countertops need to be re-sealed?
All natural countertops are sealed after they are installed on the job site. We use a high quality sealer to ensure maximum protection against stains. We recommend that you re-seal your countertops once a year to maintain maximum protection. 

Is it difficult to re-seal my granite countertops?
The process can seem daunting, but it is relatively simple. You can purchase cleaning and sealing products through Elegant Countertops or we can reseal your countertops if you would prefer. Call and ask for an estimate and be prepared to share with us the total square footage of your countertops.

Will bacteria grow on granite?
Bacteria, like any other living organism, needs something to eat in order to live.  Bacteria cannot eat granite.  Unclean, unkempt countertops can harbor bacteria regardless of what countertop material is used.  Granite has performed extremely well in testing; performing second only to stainless steel in its ability to resist bacterial growth.

What is a “pit”?  Will I have them in my countertops?
Most granite has some degree of pitting, whether microscopic or visible to the naked eye.  With todays advanced processing, the natural pitting or tiny craters in granite are greatly reduced.  These natural pits pose no maintenance or wear issues.  The depth of these pits is virtually immeasurable.

Can I hire Elegant Countertops to re-seal my countertops?
Sure. Call or contact us today for a free estimate. Be prepared to provide the square footage of countertops, stone color & type, job location and original date of install.

Will the polish on my countertops wear off over time?
That depends on whether you have granite or marble.  Granite, with normal wear and tear will not lose its polish.  That doesn’t mean that if you attack your granite with a belt sander that it won’t dull the finish.  The only things that could scratch granite are typically not found in the kitchen.  Marble, on the other hand, is a calcite which will react with acidic liquids, etching the polish.  Proper sealing and maintenance is more crucial with marble countertops.

What if a get stain on my granite countertop?
Many stains can be removed from your granite countertops. You can purchase products designed to remove a variety of stains from us. It is important that you follow the directions exactly as they are written on the package. You can also call or contact us today and we will give you a free estimate to remove the stain(s) for you.

Can granite crack or chip?
Yes, granite can crack or chip.  However this is usually caused by severe settling, excessive impact or abuse.  Most minor cracks or chipping in natural stone can be repaired by a specialist in the stone renovation business or by a qualified fabricator.

What do I do if my countertop chips?
Most chips are repairable in granite and quartz surfacing countertops. If you happen to get a chip, save the pieces and call or contact us for a service call. A service technician will come out and repair the chipped area using the pieces you saved. Many times, after the repair is complete, you can’t tell a chip ever happened.

Does granite scratch easily? Can I cut directly on my granite top?
In order to scratch granite you would need to use something as hard as it or harder. While cutting on your granite top won’t scratch the surface, it will dull your knife. Because of this we recommend always using a cutting board. Should a scratch occur, it can be repaired without resurfacing the entire area. In the event of a scratch, contact us and we’ll send out a technician.

How far can natural stone extend beyond the cabinetry without additional support?
According the Marble Institute of America, corbels or structured support should be used when an overhang exceeds 10″ for 3cm material or 6″ for 2cm material.

Do my cabinets need to be emptied for my installation?
We require all cabinets to be completely emptied and all drawers removed. This is to allow for easy access for the installers to set the countertops and sinks. This also ensures that if any glue, caulk or sawdust falls down into the cabinets, anything that is generally stored in the base cabinets will not be damaged.

Does someone have to be at the jobsite during both the final measure and installation appointments?
Yes, we require either one of the homeowners or your adult representative (over age 18), to be at the job site for the final measure. Keep in mind that many decisions need to be made at this appointment. We would like someone to be present for the installation as well to answer any questions that may arise during the install.

I want to install a new tile backsplash in my kitchen, when should this be done?
This should be done after the granite countertops are installed. This will allow you, or your tile installer to know where to start the tile backsplash and what size cuts are required.
 

How to Choose a Reputable Contractor (16 Questions to Consider)

First and foremost, make an informed decision. Require references and look at previous work. Word of mouth recommendations from neighbors or friends who have recently resided their homes are an excellent start. You may also want to ask about liability insurance, customer satisfaction policies, and professional credentials. The relationship you have with your contractor is extremely important. Choose someone who skills you trust, someone qualified to perform the task required, and someone you can work with comfortably. Here are some key questions to ask contractors, before making a decision.

1. Is the Contractor Licensed, Insured and Bonded?
Not all contractors need to be licensed, insured or bonded.  Make sure yours is.  Licensing means they have passed state testing standards to be a contractor.  Insured means they have liability insurance to cover unforeseen accidents that may happen while working on your home (i.e. fire etc.) Generally, $1 Million dollars is usually recommended.  Bonded means that in case the contractor is unable to finish a job or they go out of business there is a recovery fund that has money that a homeowner may pursue with the state.

2. Is the Contractor in Good Business Standing?
It’s sad but true, some contractors are just not very good and have complaints filed against them. Call the Better Business Bureau and search by company name to see if any claims are filed. The Secretary of State’s office is another excellent source of information or their website. Consider looking for a contractor on Angie’s List.

3. Can they really do the construction project for the cost that they say they can?
Yes, but get that in writing from your contractor before you start work. Additional charges can occur if there is damage found after the job has started such as rotten wood or water damage. Construction companies usually will not pay for this type of damage; these costs are the responsibility of the homeowner. Your contractor and you should review those items and come to agreement on additional charges before the additional work is started. That way there are no unpleasant costs tacked on at the end of the project.
       
4. Does the Contractor actually know the construction crew working your job?
It’s common in the construction industry to use subcontractors and there is nothing wrong with that – if they’re good. Make sure the contractor has personally interviewed, supervised and approved the caliber of the workforce that will be working on your home. Have they demonstrated quality workmanship on other homes? Find a company that uses fewer, but more experienced and qualified subcontractors so you can be assured to get the same high quality finished product on your home as they claim on others.  Usually two guys and a pickup isn’t the type of company that you want to work on your home. Will they be available to do service calls?

5. Does the construction crew do timely work so the job is completed quickly?
Everyone wants a quality job, but it should also be done quickly to minimize the disruption in your life. Installation crews usually have at least a 2 person crew. If the existing countertop is already removed, most countertop installations can be completed in one day. Larger jobs or commercial projects will usually involve more people and take longer to complete.

6. How about the quality of the building materials the contractor is using?
There are over dozens of countertop surface choices to choose from. For your home, pick a material that you prefer, whether natural or manufactured stone. The expertise in the installation of your countertop will be as important as the material you select.

7. How about the customer service during and after the sale?
Sometimes there are small items that may go un-noticed during the final inspection.  Make sure the contractor will return calls timely and makes in-progress inspection visits during the completion of your job and fix things during a warranty period.

8. Does the company understand the importance of Customer Satisfaction?
Everyone talks about customer satisfaction, but don’t have a clue what that really means. Ask your contractor if they cover your landscaping and shrubs during the construction project. Demand that they pick up nails and other debris at the end of the project. Lastly, does the contractor include an inspection check list? An agreed to list provided by the contractor at the start of the project to be reviewed and signed by you at the end of the job. 

9. Does the salesperson in front of you understand the construction process and getting the work done?
Question the sales person knowledge about the company offerings, how he plans to optimize your construction process and get the work done quickly and satisfactorily. Does the person have experience with different countertop materials, the fabrication process and the installation requirements? Will they follow the project from start to completion? Pick a company with successful projects using the materials you have selected and project you are considering.

10. Ask how long for delivery and how much time does the installation take?
Always ask your contractor how long before your countertop materials will take to order and be ready. It’s also a good idea to have this stipulated on your contract. Additionally ask for an “estimate” of how long the work will take to complete once they are on site.

11. Is this one guy in a pickup truck or a real business?
One major problem with commercial and residential construction or remodeling, it that anyone with a pickup truck and hammer can easily call themselves a contractor. Many do not even bother to get a proper license. It’s easy to get into the business and it’s even easier to get out of the business. For this reason in particular we only recommend you deal with established contractors who have been doing this for at last five years. Experience and reputation go a long way in the business.

12. Is there a written lien waiver?
Ask your contractor / supplier for a written lien waiver. Employees, subcontractors, and suppliers have the right in most jurisdictions to file mechanics liens against your property if the contractor does not pay them. Even though you may have paid your contractor for those materials or work, if he doesn’t meet his financial obligations, the workmen or suppliers can look to you for payment. After you pay the contractor, make sure to get copies of lien waivers to protect yourself from having to pay for the job twice.

13. Is there a building permit required?
Countertop projects may require a permit depending on the cost of your project. Many contractors will arrange permits at an additional cost - since it consumes more of their time. Some will simply ask you to pay for permits and they arrange on your behalf.

14. Is the contractor pulling the permit or you?
If permits are required for your work then make sure your contractor pulls the required building permits. This way you will know things will be done to “code”. Many homeowners’ insurance policies require pulling a permit on any major remodeling to keep your home properly covered. Some contractors prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the “hassle” with the inspectors. Some contractors may even ask you to get the permits. Either way is fine, as long as the proper permits are completed before the work is started.

15. How is job debris handled?
Nothing can be more frustrating than a contractor that has no respect for your property. Make sure that the final price includes removal of all job debris from your home and the jobsite. A clean work site is fundamental to a smooth remodeling project. Your contractor should clean up any debris at the end of each day, keep his tools neatly stowed, and neatly stack any excess materials.

16. What if I feel more comfortable with a particular contractor?
Sometimes a homeowner feels more comfortable with a particular contractor than a particular product. Installation is a very important issue with countertops. Ask your contractor to describe the installation process. If they seem knowledgeable, honest and can answer your questions, they are probably a good choice.