- Stone Care
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How often do you have to seal granite?
Traditionally, homeowners have been told to seal their granite annually. However, with the advancements that have been made in sealing products, some sealers only need to be reapplied every 3 – 5 years. Check the information on the back of the sealer and follow the recommendations.
Does a professional have to come in and seal natural stone?
No, sealing natural stone is something a homeowner can easily do. The product is a liquid that is applied to a clean, dry countertop with a soft cloth. After the sealer is generously applied to the surface, the excess is removed with a dry cloth, and the countertops should be allowed to dry. Check the back of the sealer to determine when the countertops will be ready for normal use. Drying times can vary between 24-72 hours.
Will the sealer wipe off when cleaned, or scratch off with wear?
No. The sealer is not a coating on top of the stone, it is an impregnator, which is absorbed by the stone and fills the pores in order to repel food and liquid. Over time, cleaners do reduce the effectiveness of the sealer, requiring re-sealing of the stone. Re-sealing could be necessary every 1-5 years, depending on the material and sealer used. In order to increase the life of your sealer, use cleaners that are intended for natural stone.
Will granite stain?
No. However, granite porosities vary. Some granite if not properly sealed can absorb liquid into the pores. This may appear at first to stain; however in many instances a dark area on the countertop will dry and disappear over time. If discoloration occurs, there are products on the market to remove them. Consult your stone professional or retail store specializing in stone.
Will the polish on my countertops wear off over time?
That depends on whether you have granite or marble. For granite normal wear and usage- the answer is no. That doesn’t mean that if you attack your granite with a belt sander 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.
If my granite is honed, will it be more likely to stain?
The honing process slightly changes the porosity of the stone. However, use of the proper sealer will prevent any additional staining that may occur due to the honed finish.
What should I use to clean my granite?
Typically just warm water and a mild soap solution. It is best to use a cleaning product made specifically for natural stone once a month. Consult your local stone professional for specific product recommendations.
Isn’t polished stone already sealed?
Though the polish on any given natural stone definitely closes the structure of the stone, making it less porous, it is still advisable to seal all natural stone upon installation.
How do you know when granite needs to be re-sealed?
Many people in the industry recommend an annual re-sealing of your stone. However, many types of granite are harder than others and may never need to be re-sealed. If you notice water absorption into the countertop or darker areas around the sink that is an indicator it is time to re-seal.
What is a color enhancer?
A color enhancer is used to enrich existing color in the stone. The color that a stone becomes when wet is a good indication of the color it will be once enhanced. Enhancers may need to be re-applied periodically and should be tested in a small area or on a sample piece of the stone prior to application.
Is a color enhancer also a sealer?
Most color enhancing sealers do retain the same properties of other sealers with the added benefit of enhancing the color.
Can marble countertops be refinished once they become scratched?
Yes. Marble can be refinished through a process of grinding and re-polishing. The process will vary depending on the damage or wear. This is not a do it yourself project and requires a professional refinisher.
- About Natural Stone
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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 is used. Granite has performed extremely well in testing; performing second only to stainless steel, in its ability to resist bacterial growth.
Is granite a natural product or is it man made?
Granite is a natural product. Granite is quarried in its natural form directly from the earth and is cut and processed by machine. Because of its extreme hardness and mineral content, granite can be polished to a mirror-like finish using proper machinery.
What does “honed” granite mean?
Honed granite is granite that has not been polished to a shine. It is a smooth, matte finish. Honed granite is lighter in color than its polished counterpart; however the color can be deepened with a color-enhancing sealer.
What is tumbled marble?
Tumbled marble is quite literally, marble that has been loaded into a tumbler and knocked against each other in order to achieve rough, worn edges and surface. Some materials that are referred to as “tumbled marble” are actually tumbled limestone or travertine, the process is the same and aesthetically they are difficult to tell apart.
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.
Why do some stones have a mesh backing?
Mesh backing improves the stability of the stone for shipping and fabrication. Many exotic materials would otherwise not remain intact during processing. Once these materials are installed however, they do meet the strength requirements for countertop use.
What is the difference between “cast stone” and natural stone?
Cast stone is made up of finely ground stone mixed with resins or cement-based products, then poured into a mound to create either a slab of cast stone or to create sinks, mantels, etc. Natural stone is strictly cut from the earth then cut and polished in its original, natural form.
What is antiqued granite?
Instead of the normal process of polishing granite, the polishing bricks are replaced with an abrasive brush which leaves a satin textured finish.
Can you cut on granite or do you have to use a cutting board?
Yes, you can cut directly on granite. However, routinely cutting on a granite surface will dull your cutlery.
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 a granite finish are greatly reduced. These natural pits pose no maintenance or wear issues. The depth of these pits is virtually immeasurable.
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 is the difference between sanded and unsanded grout?
Sanded grout is recommended for a joint width greater than 1/8″. Use unsanded grout for joints 1/8″ or less in width.
Are engineered quartz surfaces natural?
Marketers contend that quartz surfaces contain 93% quartz. However, this number is calculated by weight, not by volume. Therefore the true ratio of quartz is approx. 67 – 73%. It is also important to note “quartz” refers not only to natural quartz but glass and mirror particles as well.
Are there granite formations or quarries in the United States?
Yes, granite can be found across the US including Georgia, North Carolina, Maine, the Dakotas, California and New York just to name a few.
What is Soapstone and what kind of maintenance does it require?
Soapstone is quarried like Granite and Marble. Its primary components are magnetite, dolomite, chlorite, and talc. Talc in soapstone is soft to the touch, which gives the smooth feeling of rubbing a piece of dry soap. Thus the name was derived – “Soap” stone. For maintenance, mineral oil should be applied to the stone, which darkens the color and works as a protective sealing layer. The mineral oil will need to be re-applied to the stone periodically, especially when the counter tops are first installed. Over time, a patina will develop and the mineral oil can be applied less often. Soapstone will scratch. Scratches can be sanded out and re-sealed with mineral oil.
Are textured granites more porous?
No. Textured granites are created when the slabs are flamed and then brushed, machining the abrasive surface to a low sheen with an evenly textured finish. Though the granite has been enhanced through this process, the stone retains its superior durability over alternative countertop surfaces.
How long will my natural stone last?
Take care of your natural stone and it will last for generations. Some natural stones are as old as the earth.
What is patina?
A patina refers to the smooth surface appearance that is produced by the aging and use of natural stone over time.
- What to Look Out For? – Buyers Beware
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Please Look Past the Stone.
The natural stone countertop industry is split into two types of companies: those that import stone for sale to fabricators and those that actually fabricate and install the stone in your home.
Granite countertops are one of the smartest and most exciting choices a consumer can make provided a very important point is kept in perspective: Granite may be a commodity however; excellent customer service, great workmanship, meticulous quality installation and reliable timely project execution are not, these virtues are priceless. It’s fair to say that among the various types of natural stone, granite countertops are so popular in the US today that granite has become a commodity. Just like everything that is in high demand, there are important elements for consumers to carefully consider.
Keep in mind there’s not another kitchen exactly like yours. Even if your best friend down the street has your floor plan; walls are never perfectly square flat, or plumb cabinet installations are always different, there are unique support or levelness issues and appliances, sinks, faucets, windowsills, extra (excessive) overhang, and raised bar configurations must be considered. Backsplash logistics must be planned, sinks and appliances have to be disconnected and re-connected not to mention you have your own unique budget considerations and timing needs and you need a knowledgeable, experienced and reliable provider that is committed to leading and supporting you through each step of your counter top project. This requires great integrity, honesty, precise clear communication, technical judgment, substantial expertise, project orchestration and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
Taking all of that into consideration, when you’re in the market to buy granite counter tops, you’re not just buying stone, you’re buying the ability of a company to take the second hardest natural substance on earth and prepare a template, cut it, fabricate it and install it to within a minuscule tolerance on spec, on schedule and at a fair price. Kindly remember, you are also buying the company’s ability to lead you through an important series of choices and decisions that will make a huge difference in the finial quality of your project. You will see your new countertops every day for many years. They will serve as a daily reminder of the decision you are making now.
Here’s what to look for:
- Does the company specialize in granite countertops for the home or are they just selling countertops to be made by someone else? This is a huge point. There is NO substitution for dealing directly with the folks who sell it, fabricate it and install it.
- Does the company have a showroom with a large selection of stones and knowledgeable sales people who impart product, design and process knowledge versus making you ask all the questions? You should ask for a process guide in writing.
- Does the company have a well-equipped manufacturing facility? Be wary of “fabricate-on-site” vendors. Although minor, on-site adjustments and finishing touches are usually necessary, precision work requires a well-equipped manufacturing facility, professional fabricators and installers. Also, be especially wary of vendors using “standardized, pre-cut pieces” of natural stone. Every project is unique and a “cookie cutter” approach will simply not compare to the beauty, reliability and finished quality of work that is tailored to your unique specifications.
- Does the company have full time employees that handle your planning, quotes, templates, slab layouts, cutting, fabrication and installation? That’s called “soup to nuts” or “turnkey” and eliminates finger pointing across a cadre of sub-contractors.
- Does the company have a dedicated scheduling department? Without one, how can they place the proper value on timeliness and honoring their commitments?
- Is the fabricator members of the Better Business Bureau and if so what is their accreditation level? Are they rated level A or A+?
- Are they members of the Marble Institute of America and if so what is their accreditation with them?
- Does this company have letters of recommendation that they can provide from their previous customers along with a customer reference list so you may call to verify their workmanship and professionalism?
- Do they take all major credit cards for payments? This protects you in case they do not perform.
Go to some of the local granite and marble importers or call them. Ask these importers which of the companies you have quotes from pay their bills on time consistently and have the best overall business ethics & reputations. That, in addition to contacting more than just a few customer references, will give you the best integrity check you can have.
- Why Choose Unique Marble X?
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Because We Promise the Following:
We provide a free In-Showroom design consultation & estimate. The design consultant will help you to design your kitchen. To schedule your appointment please call 770-872-4066 today.
Superior Materials:
We allow you to hand pick your slabs. We stock over 1800 full size slabs of the first choice, premium quality at our warehouse. This allows you to choose from the widest choice of diverse color and pattern and should you choose the exotics range you will be guided accordingly. Rigorous quality control ensures our counter tops are produced from the finest stone available.
Quality Fabrication:
We fabricate custom granite counter tops exclusive for your kitchen per accurate templates utilizing large/full size slabs (countertops are not pre-fabricated). That is why we promise a job with as few seams (joints) as possible. Our crew boasts of doing their work the right way – first time around. Never are two kitchens ever identical. Walls are usually uneven and by making precise templates we eliminate the chance of any error. Our crews have over 105 year of total experience in this business. We reseal all stone counters during production and at install by applying the premium quality sealers available (upgraded).
Certified Installation:
We have re-defined the installation process by using highly skilled professionals with unparalleled experience. The entire process takes seven to ten business days from the day of slab layout approval. At an additional cost, if you want our professional installers can remove (optional) your old countertops the same day the new ones are installed in most cases for usual, saving you the inconvenience of living without a sink, cook top, or counters for days on end.
Expert Service:
Punctuality, timeliness and cleanliness are virtues that are important to all our crews. The Customer Care Team is focused on your satisfaction. If you have any questions about the stone, the process or your installation, simply call 770-931-2244 to speak with a specialist from our team.
Experience:
We have installed over a million square feet of natural stone. Our staff has over 105 years of total experience. We are a reputable firm well known in the commercial construction industry here in the south east. We have been awarded many prominent jobs due to our expertise in tile & natural stone.
Peace of Mind:
You will have peace of mind knowing that you are dealing with an honest reputable company having great integrity and reliability. We are accredited members of the Better Business Bureau, the Marble Institute of America and many other industry affiliations.
Budget:
We custom fabricate granite counter tops that fit everyone’s budget. The price is determined by the cost of material you choose. Exotics cost more due to the higher cost of the slabs and the added waste. You pay for square footage being used for your job. You are not charged separately for sales tax as we pay it for you.
No Extra Hidden Cost:
Coring faucet holes, standard radiuses and standard edges offered at no extra charge. There will be no additional charges later on so long as the scope of work & final measurements remains the same.
Licensed and Insured:
We provide you with our current certificate of insurance ahead of time to establish that we are insured. Our license is always displayed at our premise. We have been in business since 1990.
Vision Statement:
Our vision is to be the provider of choice in the greater Atlanta area for those consumers wishing to have new granite counters fabricated and installed the right way, first time around.
Mission Statement:
Our principal duty is to provide a quality product at a fair price with excellent customer service to the demanding consumer market of ornamental rock.
- Before You Buy
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I’ve heard of “high movement” stone. What is it?
Sometimes called “movement” this is veins that swirl and change irregularly in granite due to the massive forces beneath the surface of the earth during the eons it took to form. “Movement” is also affected by trace amounts of other minerals such as hornblende, magnetite, hematite, pyrite, zircon, garnet and corundum. Many people find this flow of blending colors to be the most attractive and compelling quality about granite. All granite primarily contains Mica, Feldspar and Quartz.
What is the difference between a drop-in sink and an under-mount sink?
A drop-in sink sits on top of the cut-out in your granite counter while an under-mount sink installs beneath the cut-out. There is generally an extra polishing charge required in preparing a granite countertop for an under-mount sink.
Does granite need to be sealed to avoid staining?
We recommend the application of a sealer every 12-18 months to assure protection against any spills that may have sat on the countertops for a length of time. We provide our customer upon completion of the installation with a maintenance kit. We seal every stone surface upon completion of production.
Are all granite kitchen counters a high gloss finish?
No, there are several different finishes you can get. The highly polished finish is just the most popular. There is a honed finish that gives a matte finish and an “antique” finish which give leather like finish. These items require more care as the surfaces are more porous and more easily absorbs spills.
Is granite really scratch resistant?
Yes. Even if you cut directly down upon it in the course of normal, daily use, you will not mar the finish of your granite countertops. However, we recommend using a cutting board to avoid blunting your knife.
Is it true granite won’t chip, crack or ding?
We assure you it will not chip, crack or ding under normal use. Besides, the fabrication process is the most stressful on the stone, and if it doesn’t break at that point, it will not under normal use in your home.
What is granite?
Granite is a coarse grained, crystalline igneous rock primarily composed of Feldspar and Quartz. It forms from slowly cooling magma that is subjected to extreme pressures deep beneath the earth’s surface.
Is it hard to care for a granite countertop?
Not at all, in fact, you’ll wish everything were this easy. Normal cleaning with soap and water should be enough. However, if you need a little more just use a common non-abrasive commercial product, such as soft scrub, to wipe it down which will keep the granite shining.
Is the use of marble considered a good value for the money?
Yes. Regardless of its finish or shine, marble creates an immediate impression of elegance. Today, the presence of marble anywhere in a residential or commercial property is a plus on any real estate broker’s checklist. A marble foyer or bathroom makes a tangible contribution to the value of one’s property.
In an increasingly tight construction market, building owners and home owners are turning to renovation and restoration of their existing properties. In that effort, many design and construction professionals are integrating high-quality and durable building materials into their plans.
What is marble?
Marble is a hard crystalline metamorphic rock composed mostly of calcite that takes a high polish; used for sculpture and as building material.
