How Thick Should My Countertops Be?

The standard stone countertop is 1 and 1/4inches thick.

Can I Cantilever Granite?

To cantilever granite (to have a supported overhang of a granite countertop), you must have a sufficient support system on the fixed end holding the majority of the granite.

Never cantilever granite somewhere that will have to deal with excessive amounts of stress – unsupported granite is fragile and can is most susceptible to breaking or cracking with incorrect support.

How Can I Repair My Damaged Granite?

Although granite is an incredibly durable stone, high-impact blows will still be able to damage granite like most other tough surfaces. If you’ve noticed a chip, it can be repaired with a mixture of epoxy and granite dust. Granite that is not properly sealed is more subject to pick up stains from oil-based products and heat.

Will My Granite Crack?

It would be a very rare occurrence for your granite counter top to crack with ordinary use. It can hold up to cutting, hot pans, and other normal kitchen uses.

What is Etching?

Etching occurs when some form of acid makes contact with a polished surface like marble or limestone. The chemical reaction caused will remove any polish that was put on to prevent damage, which in fact will damage or roughen the surface. If you’re looking for a more durable stone, stay away from marble or limestone and use granite or jade.

Does Granite Stain?

Typically, no.

Any porous stone is subjected to staining, however granite is one of the least porous stones (making it one of the strongest surfaces!) Prolonged contact with something wet may cause moisture absorbtion, leaving a dark spot when the water is wiped away on some colors. Usually once the granite dries, the colored spot will go away – a properly sealed and installed countertop with proper maintenance should never be a problem with our clients.

What’s the Best Way to Clean Granite?

Since granite and most other stone countertops are sealed during fabricatoin, cleaning is made easy! We tell our clients to clean granite with a mild, phosphate-free dishsoap and warm water.

Should I Use Stone for My Kitchen Countertops?

Depending on which stone you decided on, something more durable like granite is suggested for a kitchen countertop. Granite is considered the second hardest stone, and most is not easily damaged by household acids or everyday use with pots or pans, and is even strong enough to withstand placing hot pans directly on it.

We don’t normally suggest any kind of marble for a kitchen countertop because of the maintenance factor. Kitchens get messy and that means you could experience major stains, or etching due to household acidic products like citrus juices and or ketchup. Even knives, uneven pots and pans, and other sharp objects can scratch marble. Typically, we install marble into bathrooms and vanity areas.