Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of our most frequently asked questions (f.a.q), however if you have a question you don't see here you can email us and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. If your question is regarding an order already placed with us please call us at 303.733.3013.

• How can I remove a stain from my stone?
• Will the sample I got from a supplier be an exact match to the stone?
• Is it normal for granite to have small, hairline cracks and pits?
• What is the difference between a fissure and a crack?
• Is the stone guaranteed?
• After I have selected my stone, how long does it take to be installed?
• What type of sink is recommended with slab countertops?
• Will my natural stone burn/stain/scratch/crack?
• My granite countertop cracked - can it be repaired?
• My antique stone table top was broken in a move. Can it be fixed?
• I want to have countertops fabricated and installed. Where do I pick out the material?
• How do I protect my stone from abuse?
• Can I get 12x12 tiles to match the slab?

How can I remove a stain from my stone?

Stain removal requires knowing about the stain, the stain removal section on our Care & Cleaning page covers this issue in depth.

Will the sample I got from a supplier be an exact match to the stone?

Because samples represent a small area of the stone, they can be indicative of general coloring, texture, and veining. Stone is a product of nature and will vary, sometimes greatly, from slab to slab and block to block. Two batches of the same stone from the same quarry can look very different. In order to obtain the best knowledge of what your finished product will look like, always view current, full slabs when making your material decision.

Please refer to our Warranty & Disclaimer regarding the natural aspect of stone.

Is it normal for granite to have small, hairline cracks and pits?

Yes, additionally, in viewing your stone, generally, you will notice that all stones have some veining and crystallization that may appear to be cracks, but are actually indigenous to the stone. Again, stone is a product of nature, and thus, perfectly consistent color and texture are rarely found. Please refer to our Warranty & Disclaimer regarding the natural aspect of stone.

What is the difference between a fissure and a crack?

Is the stone guaranteed?

Trying to guarantee the actual stone is impossible given its nature as a product of the earth and considering all the variances therein. However, we guarantee the quality of our workmanship (including installation) fully. See also our Warranty & Disclaimer.

After I have selected my stone, how long does it take to be installed?

Depending how busy the industry is, typically once a stone selection has been made, the bid has been approved and a deposit has been made, you can expect installation approximately three (3) to six (6) weeks after templating has been done. Other deciding factors include (but are not limited to) availability of material and the size of the job. More information on the whole process can be found on our Ordering Stone page.

What type of sink is recommended with slab countertops?

Everyone's tastes differ, but generally, an under mount sink gives a much cleaner look. With an under mount, the "frame" of a self rimming sink is not there to distract from the stone. Some people also think that cleaning the countertops is easier with an under mounted sink. Examples can be seen in our Sinks gallery. Additional information about sinks, sink cutouts and cabinet sizes can be found on our About Sinkspage.

Will my natural stone burn/stain/scratch/crack?

Different natural stones resist abuse at different levels. However, destruction of all natural stone is easy to prevent. Keep your stone sealed, keep hot plates and pans from direct contact with the stone, and wipe up spills immediately. Knives should not be used on the surface of the stone without a cutting board as a buffer. As a general rule, the sedimentary stones such as sandstone and slate are the softest and easiest to scratch or stain because of their soft, porous nature. Next in line as far as hardness are the metamorphic stones such as limestone and marble. These stones are still fairly soft and will scratch easily, so they are not recommended for high abuse areas such as kitchens. The igneous stones, such as granite, are the hardest and most resistant to abuse. For kitchens, granite is the most recommended stone due to its harness and resistance to staining and burning. No matter which stone you choose, however, proper care techniques must be employed in order to protect your investment and ensure many years of natural beauty. Additional info can be found on our Care & Cleaning page.

My granite countertop cracked - can it be repaired?

Usually cracks are easily fixed with some form of caulk or epoxy filler. These fillers are colored to match the stone and often are barely visible. If necessary, the stone is then repolished to smooth any seams created by the repair.

My antique stone table top was broken in a move. Can it be fixed?

Most broken pieces can be repaired depending on how fractured it is. However, do not expect the piece to "look like new" since most likely a colored caulk or epoxy filler will be used to repair it, and may be visible. Depending on the stone and degree of damage, the repairs can range from good to amazing. However sometimes it is more cost effective to simply replace the piece.

I want to have countertops fabricated and installed. Where do I pick out the material?

We have a sizeable amount of single slabs and remnants to choose from in our yard. If we don't have either enough of something you find in our yard or what you are looking for at all, we can procure it from local suppliers (or the quarry if necessary). Please see our Stone Selection page for more information on various stone types. At the bottom of the page are links and address to the local material wholesalers where you may view additional material.

How do I protect my stone from abuse?

Sealer is the first line of defense in the fight against damage. A clear sealer will be applied upon installation and need only be re-applied when water no longer beads up. The re-application can be done by the customer. Color enhancing sealers (silicon impregnating) are also available. These sealers will help the stone to resist staining, but are not foolproof. Precautions such as barriers from heat (potholders) and knives (cutting boards) are a must. The stone must be cleaned often with a soft rag and a neutral, non-ammonia based cleaner such as Intercare, which we stock in our shop. Liquid or solid food should never be allowed to stand on the stone for any amount of time, because even granite is slightly porous and will absorb moisture, resulting in a dark colored water spot or even a stain. Additional info can be found on our Care & Cleaning page.

Can I get 12x12 tiles to match the slab?

For many slab colors, 12x12 or other size tiles are available from other suppliers or from the quarry. Generally we do not stock tiles as our space is limited and dedicated to full slabs. Please note that tiles are cut from lower "grade" material that is not suitable for slabs and that tiles may vary more than slabs. That is why it is highly recommended to pick your slabs first and then find tiles that match your selected slabs.