Question 1

How often must you seal natural stone countertops?

Accepted Answer

We offer a lifetime-rated sealer. It is a one-time application with warranty or non-warranty options. Alternatively, you can purchase a sealer kit from a building supply store and apply it every 6 to 12 months.

Question 2

How much does a full slab of stone weigh?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

What is the difference between natural and engineered stone?

Accepted Answer

Natural stone (granite, marble, quartzite, onyx, soapstone, limestone, etc.) are cut out of stone quarries located all around the world. Engineered stone (quartz) is produced using crushed quartz stone combined with polyester resin and pigmants to provide the color and patterns, usually imitating natural stone.

Question 4

Where does the stone come from?

Accepted Answer

– Natural stone is mined from quarries all around the world.

Question 5

What are benefits of each stone?

Accepted Answer

Granite is durable, resisting scratches and tolerating heat. Quartz offers a wide range of colors, low maintenance, and a non-porous, sanitary surface (does not need a sealer). Marble and quartzite display a rich, timeless beauty.

Question 6

What's the difference betweeen marble and granite?

Accepted Answer

Although both are stones quarried from the earth, marble (as well as limestone, onyx, and travertine) can have beautiful designs but tend to be softer and easier to stain if not sealed. Granite is more durable against everyday wear but often has a more common look.

Question 7

Why are some stones more expensive than others?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary because of availability, the color rarity, locations of quarries and transportation expenses, and quarrying challenges. Lower price does not necessarily mean lower quality. Upstate Granite Solutions seeks to use high quality materials in its fabrication and installation.

Question 8

What is "honed" stone?

Accepted Answer

Honed stone has a matte or satin finish. Honed marble does not show etching or wear patterns like polished stone. Honed stone has a less formal, softer appearance than polished stone.

Question 9

Can granite be damaged?

Accepted Answer

Any solid surface can be chipped by impacts. Repair can be performed by a stone fabricator professional.

Question 10

Can I cut on my granite countertop?

Accepted Answer

You are more likely to dull your knife than scratch your granite, quartzite, or quartz. Marble can be scratched by normal kitchen wear including cutting. A cutting board is recommended in any case.

Question 11

What should I use to clean my countertops with?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

Do stone countertops need to be sealed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all natural stones except quartz need to be sealed.

Question 13

Is the leathered finish hard to clean?

Accepted Answer

No, whether you have leathered, honed, or polished countertops, they all clean the same.

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

No, the sink cutout normally comes off the router in small pieces. We can provide a cutting board of the identical material for $50.

Question 15

Why is granite good for kitchen counters?

Accepted Answer

Granite provides a beautiful countertop surface while also being highly resistant to scratching, cracking, and staining (when sealed).

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

Quartz is the lowest maintenance stone and also has the most color and design options. Granite is also a great option for kitchen countertops because of its durability and beauty as a natural stone.

Question 17

Is there a difference in maintainance between the different finishes?

Accepted Answer

Not really. Different finishes clean essentially the same.

Question 18

What is your installation time?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 19

How does the process work?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

Can I use my own sink?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 21

Is the installation included in the price per square foot?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 22

How do I measure my countertops?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 23

How accurate do my measurements have to be?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 24

Will my countertops overhang the cabinets?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 25

Can granite cantilever?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 26

Can I use marble on my kitchen counters?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 27

What is etching?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 28

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 29

Do you sell remnants at a discounted price?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for smaller projects we have a large selection of remnant pieces. Pricing varies according to material.

Question 30

Do I have to buy the whole slab?

Accepted Answer

No, at Upstate Granite Solutions you buy the square footage of material you need for your project. The square foot price includes the material, fabrication, and installation of the material.

Question 31

Do I need an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to call ahead for an appointment with one of our designers, especially if you are working with a building contractor. However, walk-in customers are always welcome.

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