Etching occurs when acid in some form reacts with the calcium in marble and limestone leaving a hazy spot in the surface. Granite is more resistant to etching.

Natural stone, including granite, can stain due to its porous properties. Some colors are more vulnerable than others. It is important to apply penetrating sealer to prevent food and beverage stains.

Due to the mineral properties of granite it has a composite crystalline nature. The greatest danger of cracking would come from stresses during movement or from cabinets that are uneven with high or low points.

FAQ's | Upstate Granite Solutions

Q: Can I use my own sink?

Yes, but it will need to be delivered to us by your template date so we can measure and program it properly. There is a nominal fee which includes programming, fabricating the opening, installing your sink, and drilling faucet holes. We do not provide plumbing services for disconnection or re-connection.

Q: Is the installation included in the price per square foot?

Yes, all of our quoted pricing includes templating, fabrication, and installation unless otherwise specified.

Q: How do I measure my countertops?

Make a rough drawing of the countertops and measure all of the sides in inches.

Q: How accurate do my measurements have to be?

Close enough for us to make an accurate estimate. Because it is an estimate, the final price could go up or down a little after templating.

Q: Will my countertops overhang the cabinets?

The standard 1.5” overhang is used for most counters. This may be changed due to cabinet configuration, cabinet installation, and/or personal preferences.

Q: Can granite cantilever?

The Natural Stone Institute’s industry standards stipulate that 2/3 of the stone weight must be on the cabinets. Their guidelines also limit unsupported overhangs to 10″ for natural stone and 15 inches for quartz. Various brackets and other support options are available when countertop designs exceed these standards.

Q: Can I use marble on my kitchen counters?

Yes, but it is not recommended due to its chemical properties that react to acidic substances and lead to etching. Its qualities suit it as an ideal material for certain baking needs like pastries and fudge.

All About Stone

How much does a full slab of stone weigh?

Granite weights approximately 20 lbs. per square foot. An average slab weighs about 1000 lbs. A slab of quartzite would be closer to 1200 lbs. because it is more dense than granite.

What is the starting price of your materials?

Will my kitchen have seams?

I've noticed some granite has pits on the surface - will I have these on my kitchen counters?

Does granite stain?

Can granite crack?

Can I cut on my granite countertop?

Can granite be damaged?

What is "honed" stone?

Why are some stones more expensive than others?

Everyday Tips

What should I use to clean my countertops with?

Use a microfiber cloth and any stone cleaner or a 50:50 mix of water and isopropyl alcohol with a tsp. of dawn dish soap. Simple Green is also effective. Avoid abrasive or acidic cleaners which can strip the sealer and etch the stone.

Do stone countertops need to be sealed?

Is the leathered finish hard to clean?

Can I get the sink cutout and use it as a cutting board?

Why is granite good for kitchen counters?

What is the best type of stone to use in my kitchen?

Is there a difference in maintainance between the different finishes?

How We Operate

What is your installation time?

Once a deposit is paid the template can usually be scheduled within 2-3 weeks (or when cabinets are fully installed). The time from template to installation will be a minimum of 6 business days. This allows us to program, inspect material, and fabricate each job.

How does the process work?

Design meeting: Come in and discuss your ideas with one of our expert designers.

Get a quote: Once you have picked out your stone, we’ll give you a free quote.

Measure: Our template technician will visit your home to take accurate laser measurements.

Fabricate: We precisely cut and fabricate your stone using one of our CNC or waterjet machines.

Install: Your beautiful countertops are professionally installed in your home.

Can I use my own sink?

Is the installation included in the price per square foot?

How do I measure my countertops?

How accurate do my measurements have to be?

Will my countertops overhang the cabinets?

Can granite cantilever?

Can I use marble on my kitchen counters?

What is etching?

What to Expect

Can I pick out my exact slab/location where my countertops will be cut out?

With natural stone products, once a deposit is paid, the slabs chosen by the client are reserved for his/her project. Quartz slabs are very consistent making the reservation fo specific slabs unnecessary. The client can work with their designer to determine a layout of the location of the pattern in the project

Do you sell remnants at a discounted price?

Do I have to buy the whole slab?

Do I need an appointment?

FAQ’s

All About Stone

Everyday Tips

How We Operate

What to Expect

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(864) 626-3357