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Will my sample match my actual slab?
Because of the movement and veining in natural stone it is difficult to accurately represent stone with a small sample. Looking at a small sample sample may not represent the variations through the entire slab. Stone varies from shipment to shipment, so if you have a sample from a previous shipment, it may not match the current supply. It is advisable to view the actual slabs prior to fabrication.
Will my countertops have seams
A typical slab size is somewhere between 7 and 10 feet. Your countertops may not require a seam. Many people do not have a problem with seams, but if you are concerned about them you should discuss this with your fabricator prior to fabrication. How and where it is seamed should also be discussed with the fabricator.
How can we have as few seams as possible ?
On average, granite slabs are approx 110" x 66". Though in some colors, 120" slabs are not unusual. While planning your kitchen, keep these sizes in mind. Extremely large islands may require a seam or the color selection in unusually large slabs will be very limited.
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. Stone may contain natural pits, fissures, voids and discolorations that are inherent in the stone itself and are unavoidable. Expoy/polester/cyanoacrylate materials may be used to fill these conditions. With today's advanced processing, the natural pitting or tiny craters in a granite finish are greatly reduced. These natural pits pose no maintenance or wear issues.
Are veins weak spots in the stone ?
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
Which type of sink is best for granite ? Under mount or drop-in
This is a matter of personal preference. If installed properly, both types of sinks are sanitary and safe. The ability to wipe off the counters directly in to the sink and the aesthetic appeal make under mounted sinks the most popular. An under mount sink installation is an additional expense ( though minimal ) due to the finishing process of the edges around the sink
Will granite weigh too much for my cabinetry ? Do I need additional cabinet supports
3cm (1 1/4" ) granite weighs approx. 19 lbs per square foot. Typical cabinet construction is more than adequate for most installations. However, large, self-standing or furniture style islands may require additional corner bracing. It is advisable to let your cabinet installer know that you are using granite to ensure proper support
How far can granite extend beyond the cabinetry without additional support
According to 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
What are remnants ?
Remnants are the smaller remaining pieces of stone from a previous job. They can be used in any stone application, size allowing
Should I approve my slabs before they are fabricated ?
It is always a good idea to approve the slabs prior to fabrication. This will help to prevent any surprises or disappointments once the material is installed. Granite, Marble, Onyx and all other Natural Stones are a natural product and will vary in color, movement and veining from samples.
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 qualified fabricator
Can I move my cabinets after templating?
Cabinets must be 100% finished and complete prior to templating. Chages to your cabinetry cannot be made after templating. Cabinets are to be plumb, level and secured to the walls and/or fllor within 1/8 in 10 feet. Additional, sinks stove and other appliances/ fixtures cannot be changed nor moved after templating.
Are my countertops sealed?
Your countertops will be sealed during the fabrication process. The sealer protects against staining, but not scratching or etching. Please ask about our 15 year sealer
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