Natural Stones are unique, created by nature. Each stone is uniquely different, ensuring a distinctive look. The color palate is varied offering many natural colors.
While natural material may cost more than some man-made products, the wide range of product means there is a stone available to fit most budgets. In the long term, stone products positively affect buyer appeal and overall investment value.
We have tried to answer some of the most commonly asked questions. If you do not find the answer to your question please contact us. We would love the opportunity to help you.
Granite and Marble; how are they different?
Marble is a metamorphic rock. It was once limestone, but over time, the combination of intense heat and pressure caused the limestone to re-crystallize. Foreign substances entering the stone during this process, creates an infinite variety of colors, asters, and veining.
Granite is an igneous rock, which means that at one time during its development, it was melted like volcanic lava. Unlike lava, however, this melted (or molten) rock never reached the surface. It remained trapped below the earths surface, where it slowly cooled and crystallized, resulting in, speckled stone that varies with veining and ranges in many different colours.
How do I clean my Granite top?
Polished granite is a very durable stone; much harder than marble. Granite has been used in the past in the commercial industry. Some of the obvious applications have been panels on the outside of buildings, walls, and floors of "high-traffic" areas. Granite will withstand almost any element it comes up against including heat and cold. Granite itself is approximately 95-98% stain resistant but when polishing, a silicone impregnator is used on all our natural stone products to ensure a non-porous stain resistant top. This will insure lasting life and beauty.
What do I remove a stain from my Granite counter top?
Since granite is porous there is the possibility that some substances can leave a satin; such as wine. If this occurs you can create a paste with 1 cup molding plaster and 1/4cup bleach. Apply this to the stained area for 30 minutes and wipe off with warm water and a soft cloth.
Can I cut on my Granite counter top?
The only thing that will cut into or scratch granite is diamond or another piece of granite. You can be rest assured that common kitchen knives and utensils are no match for the absolute hardness of a granite top. So don't worry about slicing on the counter top; the only thing that can happen is you'll dull your knives.
Can I set a hot pot on my Granite counter top?
Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure combined beneath the earths crust. It cannot be affected by heat from a cook top or frying pan. A lit flame placed under the granite will have no melting effect and will not leave any burned or scarred marks.
How can I make sure my countertop will suit the rest of my decor?
When choosing your countertops remember:
1st Cabinetry
2nd Countertops
3rd. Flooring/ Tiles
Because there are limited styles and colours available for cabinetry we recommend when choosing a countertop, to decide upon your cabinet colour and style first, this makes it easier to move on to choosing your countertops. Granite and natural quartz can vary in colour which can slightly alter the look that is desired, so matching your countertops to your cabinets will make it easier for everything to come together. Lastly, choosing from the many varieties of colours and styles in flooring to match your cabinets and counter tops makes it a breeze to bring your decor together.
Granite and Quartz; how are they different?
The main difference between Caesarstone Quartz and Granite, is that Caesarstone Quartz is an engineered product consisting of 96% quartzite and 4% polymers. Due to the engineering of Caesarstone the colouring is much more accurate and consistent from one countertop to the other. Granite is mined straight from the earth and has varied beauty differing from one slab to the next.
What maintenance does Quartz require?
Quartz requires no sealers or special cleaning; mild soap is all you need.
Can I set a hot pot as well as cut on my Quartz countertop?
Cutting on your Natural Quartz counter top will never scratch the surface; in fact your knife will dull long before any damage will occur to your countertop. Setting hot pos on Cambria is not recommended due to the polymers within the material, it runs the risk of damaging the surface.
Care & Maintenance of Granite
All natural stone, including granite has tiny pores between the variations in its chemical composition. The degree of porosity depends on the granite’s origin. To keep your granite countertops looking beautiful year after year simply follow these easy tips.
Preventing Damage to Your Stone Countertops
In most cases, stone countertops are not very easy to repair. So even though they are extremely durable, to avoid having any problems be sure to follow the guidelines here to prevent any permanent damage.
Avoid exposing your stone countertops to strong chemicals, such as paint removers, oven cleaners, acids, oils, juices, etc. for a long period of time. If contact occurs, flush the counter quickly with water.* Do not cut directly on your stone counter top. In unusual cases this can cause deep and permanent scratches to appear.
To prevent staining, we recommend that you re-seal your tops for high use kitchen once a year, for low use kitchen once every 18 months.
Avoid dropping heavy or sharp objects directly on your counters.
Avoid applying heat or flame directly to your stone tops.
Home About Us Contact Cleaning and Sealing Recommendations
Your stone countertops are very easy to clean. Common household products will keep your stone looking beautiful year after year.
Recommended Cleaners:
Murphy’s Oil Soap
Soapy Water
Any NON-abrasive cleaner
Use fine steel wool #0000 to remove any water or hard food residue
Recommended Sealer
Any Silicone Impregnator
Can be purchased from Lowe’s or Home Depot
Additional Information:
If you have any further questions, please contact us. We'd be pleased to assist you!
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