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| FAQ – GRANITE QUESTIONS |
Will my granite look like the online sample?
The samples you see on the computer have been scanned and saved as digital images. The color tones may not be absolutely correct due to variations in computer systems, monitors and compression algorithms. Also, granite is a natural material with naturally occurring variations in color, tone, granularity, pattern, etc. These variations are expected and are the source of its natural beauty.
Can I set hot pot on my granite countertop?
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.
Can granite crack?
No, not with regular use. Granite is most susceptible to cracks during shipping and installation. Normal use will not overstress this durable material.
What is the difference between granite and marble?
The main difference between granite and marble is that granite is a highly dense material composed deep inside the earths core while marble is formed from sediments under the seabed. Both solidify into stone after millions of years but the mineral composition of the two stones makes marble and granite react differently to various chemicals and household cleaners.
Does granite have any pits or fissures?
Yes granite has natural pits and fissures that are part of the stones natural structure. Some types of granite have more of such characteristics than other types, and pits can be minimized by applying sealer to the surface of the counter.
Can granite be repaired?
It is very hard to damage granite. If any damage occurs it can be sealed with a mixture of epoxy and ground up chips of granite.
How do I deal with sink and stove cutouts?
With our CNC technology we have the ability to cut any sink or surface unit cutout with computer aided design files. Under mounted sinks (sinks that are mounted under that countertop so as not to show any rim) are fully cut out, and then the inside of the hole is polished. The countertop is then flipped over and reinforced with metal rods for extra support. Self rimming cutouts are cut 6" into each corner leaving some of the straight section to be cut in the field to facilitate safe shipping.
How do I clean my granite countertop?
Granite is a very durable stone. It is also much harder than marble. Granite has been used in the past in the commercial industry.
Some of the obvious applications have been panels on the outside of buildings, walls, and floors of "high-traffic" areas.
Granite will withstand almost any element it comes up against including heat and cold.
Granite itself is approximately 95-98% stain resistant but,
we use a special impregnator on all of our natural stone products. This will insure lasting life and beauty.
Polished granite should receive the same cleaning care as polished marble, preferably using specially formulated AGM daily granite cleaner or using a mild phosphate-free, biodegradable liquid dish-soap, soap flakes or powder which contains no aromatics.
Followed by a thorough rinsing and drying with cotton-flannel or chamois. If you are going to go with just plain soap and water, keep in mind that this can lead to soap build up.
This, in turn, will dull your countertop’s finish significantly and you don’t want that. Also, plain soap and water will not bring your countertop to a beautiful shine like our AGM daily granite cleaner will.
When using a granite cleaner, let it sit for about 30 seconds and then wipe it off well using a soft cloth.
This will work best.
Does granite stain?
In general, no. All stone, however, is porous to some extent, but Granite has very little porosity. Most colors will never show any moisture. A few colors may show some moisture if exposed for a period of time.
For example, a puddle of water left on the counter for 30 minutes for some colors, may show a dark spot when the water is wiped away. This spot will then dry up and no evidence will show. Only a few colors demonstrate this trait. Our installers will seal the countertops after they are installed. Also if AGM daily granite cleaner is used there will be no need to reseal the countertops because cleaner contains some sealer and every time the countertops are cleaned they are also being sealed at the same time.
FAQ – MARBLE QUESTIONS
Is marble suitable for a kitchen countertop?
No, marble is not a good choice for a kitchen countertop. Although it can be sealed, it is not as dense as granite and therefore it is more porous and susceptible to being stained in a highly used area like a kitchen. It is much softer and it will chip and crack under frequent use.
What is the difference between granite and marble?
The main difference between granite and marble is that granite is a highly dense material composed deep inside the earth's core while marble is formed from sediments under the seabed. Both solidify into stone after millions of years but the mineral composition of the two stones makes marble and granite react different to various chemicals and household cleaners.
Can I seal marble?
Just like granite, marble is sealed after the fabrication process; unfortunately due to its porous nature sealing marble is insufficient for everyday kitchen use.
Where can I use marble?
Marble can be used for a number of various applications like fireplace surrounds, tabletops, saddles, and shelves. Ideally it can be applied to a number of projects in the bath area like Jacuzzi surrounds, vanities, floor, and shower paneling. Generally you can safely use marble in low traffic areas.
Is marble really appropriate to use in living areas?
Yes. Since ancient times, marble has been used in all areas of the Grecian home; from furnishings to floors.
These Greek marbles have proven as durable as materials traditionally considered to be sturdier with the added benefit of creating a warm welcoming atmosphere.
FAQ – GETTING STARTED WITH MARBLE & GRANITE
What do I need to consider when buying marble or granite?
Because it is a natural stone, marble -and more recently granite- has been blessed with a remarkable natural beauty that has captivated humans throughout the ages. Inherent in such natural products is a certain lack of predictability that sophisticated architects and designers celebrate. Consumers who are less acquainted with the material expect the marble ordered to be identical to the picture or sample they were shown.
Although sample stones are intended to be representative of the quarry's product, the material quarried at one time may differ slightly in color and veining from the sample. Moreover, even a single marble or granite slab will possess a certain amount of color variation from one end to the other.
Interior designers and architects have come to view this tendency of natural stone as an advantage.
Slight irregularities can be pleasing, introducing an element of the natural into human-designed spaces,
whether residential or commercial.
Is it necessary to seal stone?
Since mineral surfaces are quite porous they absorb liquids, which may result in discoloring and staining.
Although there are many commercial grade products available on the market which may bring the stone to its to its original luster, taking simple precautions and regular maintenance can save a lot of trouble and cost.
All marble and granite tops are sealed immediately after they are installed. The impregnating substance penetrates the stone clogging most of its pores making its quite impervious to alcohol,
juices, soft drinks, cosmetics, cleaners, coffee, food and even oil. With course of time, depending on how heavily the tops are used, the sealer gets washed out. The clear indication of this happening would be the fact that the liquids are easily absorbed into the stone leaving temporary (if promptly wiped off) stains. You should seal your marble every six months and your granite every year, at least.
What is the best way to clean marble and other stones?
The old rule of thumb is never to use anything you wouldn't use on your hands. Never use powdered cleansers or abrasive pads to clean your stone. Even "soft scrub" type cleaners contain pumice, which is powdered volcanic stone, and might damage your stone countertops or floors. Never use any product which is acidic; this includes substances like ammonia or many common liquid cleaners such as Windex. You should always use sealers and cleaning products designed specifically for natural stone.
Can I choose my actual granite or marble slab?
Yes. When you come to our office we give you a packet that includes several local suppliers of granite and marble slabs. You can go and tag your own granite or marble slabs, or you can select your granite and marble from our extensive showroom samples.
Can I add to my countertop or add shape to my countertop before you template my kitchen or vanity for granite?
Yes, we can add inches to counters. We can make any shape you want.
Do I need to be there for the template process?
Yes. This is the most important stage of the project. There often details that we need to ask or you may want to add to what you have now. This is the time to change anything you wish.
Will you fix my sink in place?
Yes, we will ensure that your sink is safely fixed ready for your plumber.
Why should I use natural marble and granite stone in my home?
Natural stone is nature’s timeless art. It lends strength to its surrounding by evoking a classic and unique feeling. It invites luxury into your home and yet is extremely affordable.
Where can I use natural marble and granite stone in my home?
Let you imagination flow and envision our beautiful natural stone on your kitchen counter tops, bathroom vanity tops, flooring, patios, pool decks, back splashes, wall coverings, and much more.
Why is it best to use granite for kitchen counter tops?
Granite is the hardest and densest of all the natural stones. Since it is highly durable and scratch resistant, it is the first choice for kitchen counter tops.
What are my Natural Stone surface texture choices?
Honed – A flat to low sheen gloss. Different levels of gloss can be selected. This surface is smooth, but often is very porous. This texture is common in high traffic buildings. Honed stone colors are not as vibrant as polished stone.
Polished - A glossy surface that wears away with time due to heavy foot traffic and using improper maintenance procedures. This surface is very smooth and is not very porous. The shine comes from the natural reflection of the stone’s crystal.
Flamed - A rough surface that is developed through intense heat. During fabrication, the stone is heated up and the crystals begin to pop, thus forming a rough surface.
Tumbled - A slightly rough texture that is achieved by tumbling small pieces of marble, limestone and sometimes granite to achieve a worn appearance.
Sand Blasted - This surface is the result of a pressurized flow of sand and water that provides a glossy texture.
Sawn - A coarsely polished finish achieved by using a gang saw.
Finally,
why Choose Natural Marble and Granite Stone for your Home?
Beautiful – Natural stone is heat resistant, stain, chip, crack, and scratch resistant. It comes in many color schemes. Stone does not clash with anything, but instead reflects its surroundings. In fact, natural marble and granite stone is just plain spectacular.
Adds Property Value – When it comes to cost, natural stone might at first glance seem to be more costly than alterative flooring or countertops. But natural stone is the only type of surface that retains 100 % of its value. Realize that money spent on natural stone is well spent.
Long lasting High Quality –
Stone surfaces will keep their beauty for generations and will never need to be replaced.
How durable is marble?
A: Marble has been counted on for centuries by cultures across the globe to last as flooring, wall tile, and other surfaces. Although marble is susceptible to acidic substances and metal abrasion, it remains to be a surface to be counted on to look great for years, given that a cleaning and maintenance regimen is incorporated to make sure it retains its original look. Sealing the surface of marble with an impregnator can help to do this, and to make maintenance a much easier job.
What do I need to consider when buying marble?
A: Make sure that your choice in marble tile has been appropriately gauged (its edges are perfectly square) and calibrated (the back of each tile is made entirely flat). This will make it easier to install from tile to tile. And when you order marble tile, expect color variation. This is a natural product, the color of which has been determined randomly depending on which mineral content makes up each batch when the marble is formed.
You can use this subtle color variation to your advantage when it comes time for a trial layout. Open all boxes in your shipment and see the range of color variation that can be seen in your particular batch. This is a great way to determine what you want in terms of overall look. And this leads to a finished marble project that is unique to your installation.
What about samples? Will they match my order?
A: Samples are a great way of finding out if the marble you’re interested in is what you’re really looking for. But, because there will always be variation in terms of both color and surface pattern, a sample should be viewed in the broadest terms only. This means that the colors you see in your sample is a very general guide as to how the marble in your order will look. Aside from this, a sample can give you ideas about textures, weight, and durability before you buy. In this, ordering samples is a great idea.
Are cracks and pits to be expected?
A: Minute crack-like patterns in marble are a feature of the stone. One way to make sure that your marble will stand up to foot traffic and moisture is to make sure it’s sealed. Otherwise, what is referred to as the veining in marble tile is due to the various minerals that have become trapped in the body of the marble over millions of years, formed by underground water sources. This accounts for what appears to be liquid-like patterns which makes marble tile such an attractive addition to a property.
What’s the best way to keep marble tile clean?
A: The best way to keep marble clean is to incorporate removal of dirt, grit, and other materials that are tracked in from outdoors. Many of these substances can cause minute scratches on the surface of your marble which can become noticeable over time. So, it’s best to make sure that the surface of the marble is clear with a damp cloth, soft broom, or vacuum as regularly as you can. Clean up liquid spills immediately, particularly if they are acidic in nature. Fruit juice is particularly problematic, as is coffee and red wine, because of their tendency to stain. Even if you’ve sealed your marble, it’s a good idea not to take any chances. Clear spills right away. Don’t use bleach, vinegar, or any harsh acidic-based cleaners as these will degrade the surface of your marble over time.
Can marble be repaired if it’s damaged?
A: Yes. The best people to speak with about how to repair marble tile are your local retailers. They know about the latest products which are meant for repairing marble tile. Most of these will come in the form of an epoxy glue or filler. Wiping down any broken pieces with acetone so that all foreign materials are removed is the first step in making sure that it will re-bond with the broken tile. Make sure to clear all bonding agents from the surface of the marble tile. Be sure to apply the right amount of pressure for the right amount of time. When in doubt, talk to retailers, and always read the labels of the products you buy.
How can I take care of stone surfaces?
It is best to mop frequently using a clean dry dust mop. This will minimize the amount of abrasive dirt and grit that is tracked indoors. Mats placed at each entrance also help. Other stone surfaces can be cleaned using water and stone soap supplied by The Marble Clinic. Do not use acidic detergents (lemon, vinegar), or scouring powders or creams. For cleaning soap scum on bath, shower & other wet areas, there are special soap scum removers available from The Marble Clinic. Avoid using ammonia. Using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum between cleanings. To minimize water spotting on vanity top surfaces, a good quality marble polish preserver can be applied.
Is it necessary to call in a professional to remove stains?
Most small stains can be removed without a professional, but the right product must be used. The Marble Clinic can provide you with kits and detailed instructions to do small jobs yourself.
What is the general process you undertake when restoring a lobby?
First, the contractors fill and repair all open fissures in the marble, using a matching colored epoxy. These are the veins that you see in marble. Certain stones develop more than others due to oxidization. On a job like this there is usually a small percentage of this work that needs to be done. Then, the marble and granite is polished with the company's "wet-diamond" grinding system. This is done to remove all scratches and etch marks. The contractors then scrub clean all grouting between the marble slabs. The marble and granite is finally polished a second time using refinishing compounds to restore the stone to its original luster. One coat of impregnating sealant is the finishing touch on the lobby flooring, to protect the stone from dirt and non-acidic staining. Refinishing of this magnitude should be done once every five years,. Our employees then return once a year or so to do minor polishing or correction work. Such a process, done properly, keeps a lobby looking new.
Wouldn’t it be cheaper to just wax the marble floor once in a while?
No. Periodic waxing can cause discoloration, and a careless approach to refinishing can be costly. Since natural stones consist of minerals, the use of chemicals can easily affect them. The wrong chemical may not only change the
color of the natural stone, but may even permanently and adversely affect the stone
FAQ – ORDER QUESTIONS
Do you accept credit cards?
No, we do not. All payments are required to be either certified check or cash.
If I fax my drawing with dimensions to you how long do I have to wait for a quote?
Proposals for free quotes that are faxed over are given a 24 hour time frame. We will either call or fax over the estimate assuming that the contact information is provided to us in the original fax.
How close does the estimate come to the final price?
The quote on the estimate is based on the measurements provided to us by you. So the more accurate your drawings are, the more accurate the price.
Can you describe the process of ordering with your company?
The whole process is designed for quality and speed. First, the client picks a stone, we then give the client an estimate based on their specific project. After that an order can be placed with us for a template. From the time the template is made our clients can expect a turnaround time of 2 to 3 business days.
Do I need an appointment to come down to your place?
No appointment is necessary; All Granite and Marble Corp. is open to the public Saturday through Wednesday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and Thursday from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Do I have to buy the whole sheet/slab?
No. We will determine how much material is needed for your order. We do not charge you the price of full slabs. You pay for what is required.
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