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Project FAQs

Frequently Asked

What are the different sink options?

Sink options include self-rimming (drop-in), under mounted, farm style or apron front. The various materials of sinks include stainless steel, cast iron, or synthetic (granite composite). For all under mounted sinks the stone opening will be polished.

We sell a wide variety of styles and configurations at competitive prices. We can also fabricate a custom sink out of your same stone slab to match the countertops.

Do I need to hire a plumber or an electrician if I am only having my countertops or vanity replaced/ installed?

YES – if a sink is involved, you will be asked to hire a licensed plumber if necessary for your project. We are not permitted to connect or disconnect plumbing.

An electrician should be involved for any electrical switches or outlets that come through the stone. We do not hookup or disconnect electrical – unless it’s a plug in device.

How often do I need to reseal my countertop?

For natural stones, we recommend resealing them yearly to maintain their longevity. Natural stones especially, require a tough sealer to protect them from blemishes such as staining or etching. The wear-and-tear and use for the stone can affect how often it needs sealed.

Soapstone is one of the only natural stones that does not require routine sealing and it can be left natural with a treatment such as mineral oil or a special type of wax.

Granite and Marble Designs sells a high-end sealer that can last up to fifteen years, so your countertops or stone application would not need to be re-sealed every year. Sealing is an important part of the maintenance and care for your stone.

What does it mean for stone to etch?

Marbles, limestones, and onyx are stones that are known for etching. Etching refers to dull spots that become permanent and are often mistaken for a stain. Etching is caused by acidic substances that eat off the top polished finish of the stone if left untouched for a period of time, sometimes it can happen instantly. Surface polishing your stone can help to diminish etches. This is why we would recommend a honed finish for a marble put into a kitchen setting.

Substances known to cause etching –

Bleach, vinegar, Fruits, Wine, Tomato sauce or juice, some concentrated household cleaners, pretty much anything acidic.

What does it mean for stone to stain?

Staining occurs when liquid is left on the stone’s surface for a period of time to where is becomes absorbed because the stone is not sealed anymore. Natural stone is porous which means it has natural pores that can be susceptible to certain liquids. However, stains can be “lifted” from the stone using a paste, called a pultice, that absorbs the stain out of the stone.

What if the stone of slab I want, is not the textured finish I want?

We can your have slab refinished to the finish of your choosing for an additional expense if it does not already come that way.

What are the types of finishes I can choose from for my stone?

Popular finishes are honed, polished, caressed, and leathered also known as brushed, antiqued or satin. Commercial finishes for exterior use or flooring would be bush hammered and flamed.

Can all stone materials be given each of these finishes?

YES – any type of our stones can be given one of these finishes besides porcelain and semiprecious which come polished.

What stones are not sealed?

Quartz is the only stone that is not required to be sealed.

During demolition, should the client remove appliances? Drawers?

YES –anything in the way of the work site, or regarded vulnerable, should be removed.

BUT we ask that appliances are on-site during installation for proper measuring, fitting and adjustments

Appliances such as: Stoves, Refrigerators, ranges, cooktops, downdrafts

Is my stone repairable?

YES – all stone is repairable to an extent. We will do our best to repair it to its pristine condition to where any faults or defects become unnoticeable.