This is where you should answer the most common questions prospective customers might have. It’s a good idea to cover things like your return policy, product warranty info, shipping and returns, etc. Check out the examples below.
HOW DO I KNOW WHEN IT'S TIME FOR MY GRANITE TO BE RESEALED?
Typically it is recommended to reseal if you notice water absorbing into the top near a sink. It should not be necessary to re-seal more than once a year.
WHAT IS A FISSURE?
At first glance a fissure may look like a crack. However, a fissure is not a structural defect. They are the result of the great heat and pressure that formed the granite. Fissures are one of the natural characteristics that are part of the beauty of natural stone and will not impair the function or durability of the material.
HOW MUCH DOES STONE WEIGH?
3cm granite weighs about 18 lbs per square foot.
CAN BACTERIA GROW ON GRANITE?
Yes, however, granite performed second only to stainless steel for resistance to bacterial growth.
WHY ARE SOME STONES MORE EXPENSIVE THAN OTHERS?
Availability, locations of quarries in the world (due to transportation expenses), the rarity of the color, and the amount of labor required to extract the stones all affect the price of natural stone.
CAN GRANITE CRACK OR CHIP?
Yes, however, most minor cracks and chips can be repaired by a professional.
WHAT IS A "PIT?" WILL MY COUNTERTOPS HAVE PITS?
Pits are small, natural craters in the surface of the stone and present in nearly all granite slabs. It is normal for pits to be present. Natural pits do not pose maintenance or durability issues.
HOW FAR CAN MY STONE EXTEND BEYOND MY CABINET BEFORE IT REQUIRES ADDITIONAL SUPPORT?
The Marble Institute of America recommends corbels or brackets for any overhang over 10". It is important to discuss specific overhangs with your fabricator and cabinetmaker.
COULD YOU GO INTO THE PROCESS IN MORE DETAIL?
A job site is ready for template when…
All cabinets are onsite and installed. If there are existing countertops, they will need to be cleared off before the templater arrives. We are not responsible for the moving of appliances, furniture or personal items stored in the cabinets. If it’s necessary for our templaters/installers to move appliances, furniture or personal items stored in cabinets we will not be responsible for damages.
Template
The homeowner (or designated decision-maker over the age of 18) must be present during the template process to answer questions related to seaming, corner radius, overhangs and any special design requests. It is recommended this person is familiar with the project.
Approving Slabs
Your slabs should be viewed and approved just before your template for countertops are made. DO NOT approve slabs too long before your template and install are scheduled. Most stone suppliers will only hold your slabs for two weeks.
Pricing
We estimate each order based on measurements you provide or field measurements. If final template measurements are otherwise, we will adjust the price accordingly for your final quote.
Appliances/Hardware
Some appliances and/or hardware will need to be on site prior to installation. Cooktops, downdrafts and faucets are examples of these. Please be sure new appliances/hardware are ordered plenty of time before installation to avoid a trip charge.
Removal of old tops
Installation of natural stone or quartz surfaces does not include removal of old tops unless agreements have been made for us to do so. If we are installing your new top in an existing kitchen, there may be unfinished areas of your wall or cabinets that will be exposed and / or covered by your new top. We DO NOT finish these areas.
Plumbing and Wiring
These are not included in any installation. We are not plumbers or electricians. We will disconnect your sink when removing old tops, but we are not responsible for leaks or damage. We do not reconnect sinks or cooktops. Under-mount applications will be cutout, polished and drilled to accept mounting brackets. Cutouts for drop in sinks and cooktops will be completed on the job site and some dust is to be expected.
Installation
The home owner (or other adult over the age of 18) MUST be present during the entire installation process. All necessary appliances including cooktop, down draft, sinks, faucets, soap dispenser, hot water call, or any other pertinent items must be on site.
Seaming
Placement of seams is the discretion of the fabricator, seams will typically vary from 1/16” to 1/8” and will be visible to the eye or touch. Color coordinated epoxy will be used to form the seam and blend in with countertop. Even though a customer is consulted with regards to the seam location, the fabricator reserves the right to adjust if needed.
Installation Approval
After the product has been installed the customer or (designated decision-maker over the age of 18) MUST be present to inspect the countertops. At installation a customer approval form will be provided, which will be asked to sign, confirming the satisfaction with the quality, fit and damage free condition of countertop.
Clean-up
Installation of counter tops is a construction process and residual dust should be expected. We will do our best to maintain a clean work environment however; the customer may want to cover areas to contain the dust to the construction area. The job site will be left in broom condition.