Q?

Should I use Granite, Quartz or Marble for my Kitchen Countertops?

A.

NAS recommends Granite or Quartz over Marble for kitchen countertops. Granite and Quartz are harder surfaces and under normal use will not scratch or etch like Marble.
Marble is typically used for bathroom vanity tops, Jacuzzis and fireplaces. It is not usually recommended for kitchen countertops due to the fact it is a softer surface, easy to scratch and acidic substances such as vinegars, ketchups, citrus beverages, etc. can etch or stain.

Q?

What is the best way to clean Granite, Quartz or other Stones?

A.

A mild phosphate free, biodegradable liquid dishsoap. To avoid residue build up make sure to use plain water after soaping, and dry thoroughly. Beware of commercial products claiming to be good for granite, as Some have silicons and waxes in them that will build up and dull your countertops. The only granite cleaner we recommend is Stonetech Revitalizer.

Q?

What is the maintenance for Stone countertops?

A.

Granite: Does not require a lot of maintenance, we recommend sealing your countertop once a year. Lighter more porous stones could be done twice a year.
Quartz: Just regular cleaning, no sealing required

Q?

How hard is it to seal Granite?

A.

It’s as easy as waxing a car. Thoroughly clean countertop making sure there is no wax build up or food residue on it. Dry completely and follow the manufacturer’s directions on the sealer (apply sealer with paint pad dry to haze buff off and repeat). The only sealer we recommend is Stone tech Bullet proof.

Q?

Does Granite Stain?

A.

In general, no. All stone, however, is porous to some extent, but granite has the least porosity. Most colors will never show moisture, but a few colors may absorb moisture with prolonged contact. Our granite is sealed before installation and with proper care and maintenance staining should not be a problem.

Q?

Does Granite Harbor Bacteria?

A.

Granite continues to be used in food and medical applications. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) has no record of granite harboring bacteria, and has no reports of people becoming ill from bacteria within granite. With regular cleaning, granite is far less likely to harbor bacteria than other surfaces.

Q?

Can Granite cantilever?

A.

You can cantilever granite depending on the size with sufficient support.

Q?

Can Granite Crack?

A.

Normal daily use will not crack granite, it is a very strong stone (one of the reasons so many people like it).

Q?

Can Granite be repaired?

A.

It is very hard to damage granite, but if damage does occur most issues can be repaired.

Q?

Are Granite & Quartz countertops expensive?

A.

Improved stone-working technology has made granite & quartz countertops very affordable. Certain selections are competitive with laminate and solid surfaces pricing. Also consider that with granite or quartz, the resale value of your property will increase.