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FAQs
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| Q1.What is the difference between manufactured stone (Cambria, Caesarstone, etc) and natural granite?
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| A. Natural stone is just that, natural. It is created from rock formations deep in the earth and consists primarily of quartz. Granite is cut from a mountain and polished to a fine shine and cut to fit your countertop. Each piece varies in color, pattern and can have natural fissures. Since each piece is unique we recommend that you pick out the pieces you would like to use from one of our distributors. This will insure that you get the look that you desire. Since the stone is porous it will need to be sealed to maintain the shine and protect the stone from stains.
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| Unlike natural stone manufactured stone is consistent in color and pattern, each piece is identical. Most manufactured stones come with a warranty and care guide.
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| Q2.What kind of care and maintenance do I need on the granite tops? Do I need special cleaners?
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| A. For everyday cleaning of your new granite countertops, we recommend using mild soap and water.
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| Once a week, apply a mild cleaner. To apply the cleaner, you simply wipe off any loose debris existing on the surface of the granite. Spray the cleaner, and wipe off with a soft absorbent cloth. AVOID the use of products containing Ammonia, Bleach, or anything Acidic, for they could eventually strip the protective sealer, leaving the granite vulnerable to staining. If you have natural granite they will need to be resealed approximately every 6 – 12 months. The sealer can be picked up at your local hardware or tile store.
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| Q3.Why does my countertop have a seam? I didn't want one.
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| A. The reason for this would be because the size or configuration of your countertop did not allow it to fit on a single run of the slab you have chosen, i.e., your longest stretch of countertop is 12' but the slab is only 10' in length. This would result in a seam being placed in the countertop. There are other alterations that could involve putting a seam in a countertop. As always, we strive to fabricate our kitchens with the least amount of seams as possible, if any at all.
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| Q4.What is the difference between 2CM and 3CM?
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| A. Simply it is the difference of the thickness. 3CM is a thicker granite slab and will be a bit more expensive. It is placed directly on the cabinets.
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| 2CM is slightly thinner and is glued to a sub deck. (MDF board) There is a small piece adhered to the edge that will be polished and will cover the sub deck.
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| Q5.Is it true that granite countertops are bacteria resistant?
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| A. Yes, it is! A recent study by the Hospitality Institute of Technology and Management, a St. Paul Minnesota-based organization that develops educational materials and research for the retail food industry, proved it. The study measured the bacteria resistance capacity of six common countertop materials. Granite and stainless steel performed significantly better than four other countertop choices. If you are concerned about bacterial contamination of your kitchen countertops, granite is the way to go.
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| Q6.What is the difference between "honed" and "polished" granite?
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| A. "Honed" and "Polished" refer to the finish of the granite. The finish of honed granite will range from flat to a low-sheen gloss, which gives the stone a softer look. Polished granite refers to the glossy, highly reflective appearance, giving it a smooth, sleek look.
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| Q7.What is the difference between undermounted sinks and top mounted? Which is better?
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| A. A top mount sink is a sink where the lip or the sink is on top of the countertop. Since it is a simple square cut into the granite it is done onsite and this can create a bit of dust. Due to the demolition of existing countertops and the removal the sink we recommend the purchase of a new sink. The sink will be placed in place at installation but will not be caulked or sealed. Your plumber will need to do that during the reconnection of the plumbing.
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| Undermount sinks are mounted underneath the countertop. When purchasing an undermount sink ensure that it comes with a template. This will be taken at the time of template and used to cut and polish the correct size hole for your sink. If you have any questions the associate present during template will be happy to assist you. Our installers will mount and caulk the sink in place during installation. The choice between the sinks is a personal preference.
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