Cut stone GUIDE

GRANITE

Granite was once considered a luxurious extravagance, however has become more affordable! Due to the widespread use of modern technology and machinery, the price of granite is now comparable in cost to solid surface products. Man-made materials, however, just can't match the natural beauty, durability and elegance of granite.

In addition to its natural beauty, granite is known for its exceptional durability, heat resistance and easy maintenance. Properly sealed, granite will resist the absorption of most spills, allowing simple cleanup of household dirt and grime using only mild soap and water. Granite is becoming a common choice for counter tops, vanities, flooring and wall facing.

What is Granite?

Nearly as durable as diamond, granite owes its density and hardness to its origins, solidified deep within the earth under extreme pressure. The commercial definition of granite includes many stones that are not truly granites as defined by a geologist, but these stones perform like granites and have the same characteristics.

Will my granite tops emite radon?

A considerable amount of research has been published in peer-reviewed scientific literature and all of it comes to the same conclusion: the levels of radon coming off a granite countertop are not excessive and not showing any risk for the population in their homes.

MARBLE

Since the time of the Caesars, marble has been a symbol of elegance. Ancient Roman craftsmen produced objects of such quality from marble that many of them survive to this day. From the royal palaces to the public piazzas, the Romans also knew how versatile marble could be. They used it for everything from tiling for walkways and floors, constructing aqueducts and buildings, and architectural decorations.

In modern time, advancements in equipment and techniques allow us to expand its use beyond from Roman era. Today, bath vanities, tub decks and fireplace surrounds infused with the beauty of marble have become much more commonplace. Shape and application for this ancient material are limitless and its beauty will stand the test of time.

What is Marble?

Marble is a metamorphic form of limestone. Marble formed when sediment and other materials forged together beneath the weight of heavy bodies of water. After millions of years, these crystallized minerals resulted in the stones that today we refer to as marbles, travertines, and onyx.

QUARTZ

Quartz is the second-most abundant and third-hardest natural material in the Earth. Engineered quartz countertops are made by combining dyes and polyester resins with at least 93% natural quartz. Established in the 1960's by Breton Spa. in Italy, a number of companies have licensed the technology and produce their own unique variations of natural quartz countertops.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: CUT STONE

Why does stone stain?

Properly sealed natural stone countertops, vanities or flooring will resist absorption. Occasionally, lighter colored granites and marble may show some staining. Because a few stones are porous you may be able to remove the stain by reversing the absorption process. If you apply a medium that can reabsorb the stain, you can remove it from the stone. A typical medium is called a poultice.

Should I treat different stains differently?

Using the appropriate removal technique is important to achieving the desired results. You should never attempt to remove a stain until you determine the material that caused it. You should test the stain as often as necessary to correctly identify the material.